Abu Dhabi Grand Prix concessions feature Gaia Biomaterials beer cups

In Abu Dhabi, spectators at a recent Grand Prix race enjoyed drinks from a new type of bioplastic cup. Called biodolomer, the compostable material is produced from minerals and vegetable oils and was developed by Sweden’s Gaia Biomaterials. Approximately 150,000 such cups were served at the F1 race.

“It’s a fantastic sign of recognition to have been chosen by such a prestigious event,” David Hughes of UK-based Happy Dolphin, which converted the biodolomer pellets to finished product, told Packaging World. “The cups are very durable and stable and are suitable for printing. They can be collected along with food waste and put straight in an industrial compost. The result will be soil that is very high in minerals.”

Hughes added that the cups are very durable. “We’ve stepped on them, hit them with cricket bats, sat on them and they just wrinkle and can be put back in shape – ready for a refill. The only thing that broke them was when we ran them over with a car,” he said.