PepsiCo, one of the world's largest food and beverage companies, said it has reached an agreement with Israeli startup UBQ Materials and Ecoboxes to use its new ultra-low carbon bioplastic on pallets carrying the products.

UBQ has developed innovative technology to convert unscreened household waste, including organic waste, into biodegradable plastic. By diverting waste from landfills, the emission into the atmosphere of greenhouse gases that are generated during its decomposition is avoided.

In this initial project, Ecoboxes Embalagens Plásticas, a partner of PepsiCo, a Brazilian company focused on sustainability and circular economy, will be responsible for the manufacture of pallets. According to UBQ, the implementation of this initial project will save more than 6,500 kg of GHG emissions, equivalent to the annual carbon sequestration produced by 534 trees. In addition, more than 739 kg of mixed waste will be prevented from being stored in landfills, making it a valuable resource.

The UBQ™ material is a 100% bio-based thermoplastic made of unclassified municipal solid waste, including mixed plastics, paper, cardboard and organics, and is suitable for replacing conventional polymers in a variety of durable applications.

The first phase of the PepsiCo project includes the manufacture of 830 ecological pallets for use in two of the company's logistics centers in Brazil. In addition to UBQ™ material, pallets are also made with recycled materials, including recycled PP resin and recycled BOPP (plastic film used in the company's snack packaging), completing the circular economy cycle.