Addressing the Microplastics Challenge in Response to Stricter EU Regulations Toward 2035
HighChem Company Limited (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo, CEO: Ushio Taka), a global chemical trading and manufacturing company, has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with Beijing Weigu Factory Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (PhaBuilder) (headquartered in Beijing, China; Chairman: Xu Xuanming; hereinafter referred to as “PhaBuilder”), a PHA manufacturer originating from Tsinghua University, and Nikko Rica Corporation (headquartered in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and Representative Director: Hiroyuki Ishii; hereinafter referred to as “Nikko Rica”), for the joint development and market expansion of marine-biodegradable PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates) in cosmetic applications.
Background and Objectives
In recent years, marine pollution caused by microplastic beads contained in cosmetic products has become a significant environmental issue. These particles cannot be completely removed by wastewater treatment facilities and, once discharged into the ocean, are ingested by plankton and fish, affecting the ecological food chain.
In response to this issue, the European Union enacted revised REACH regulations in September 2023, introducing phased restrictions on microplastics. Within the cosmetics sector, the use of intentionally added microplastics in products sold within the EU is being gradually prohibited. By 2035, microplastics are expected to be completely banned in all makeup products, including lip and nail cosmetics.
Currently, microplastic beads subject to these regulations are still widely used in cosmetic products worldwide, making the transition to REACH-compliant alternatives an urgent priority.
This partnership aims to respond to these changing market conditions and contribute to solving the microplastics issue through the development, mass production, and commercialization of innovative alternative materials utilizing marine-biodegradable PHA.
Features of PHA
PHA is a biomass-derived plastic produced by microorganisms and is classified as a biodegradable plastic that ultimately decomposes into water and CO₂ through microbial activity. In addition to exhibiting excellent biodegradability in freshwater and soil environments, PHA also biodegrades effectively in marine environments. Furthermore, it can be broken down within living organisms, making it a promising next-generation material that is less likely to contribute to microplastic pollution.
Roles and Strengths of Each Company
About PhaBuilder
PhaBuilder is China's largest PHA manufacturer, utilizing the Next-Generation Industrial Biotechnology (NGIB)* system developed through more than 30 years of research at Tsinghua University to produce a wide variety of cost-competitive PHA products. Earlier this year, a joint venture with leading Chinese yeast manufacturer Angel Yeast commenced operation of the world's largest PHA production plant in Hubei Province, with an annual production capacity of 10,000 tons, marking the start of full-scale commercial production. The company plans to expand capacity to 30,000 tons per year in the future, enabling a stable supply system and enhanced price competitiveness.
NGIB = Next-Generation Industrial Biotechnology
About Nikko Rica
Nikko Rica utilizes its proprietary powder-processing technology to develop cosmetic ingredients that maximize the characteristics of raw materials. Leveraging this expertise, the company has developed RUSENT POWDER, a PHA-based material that retains the benefits of marine-biodegradable PHA while delivering a significantly smoother texture and superior dispersibility in water and oils compared with conventional biodegradable resin powders. The material can be applied across a broad range of cosmetic products, including base makeup, color cosmetics, and skincare products.
About HighChem
HighChem entered into a distribution agreement with PhaBuilder for the Japanese market in July 2024. In addition, since 2019, the Company has worked to develop the biodegradable plastics market through a strategic business partnership with BBCA Group, the world's largest polylactic acid (PLA) manufacturer. Today, HighChem has established an import and distribution network covering seven types of biodegradable plastics, including PLA, marine-biodegradable PHBV, and P34HB. In December 2021, the Company launched HIGHLACT®, a PLA-based material, and has also been engaged in the development of PLA fibers for apparel applications, expanding its business activities across a wide range of biodegradable resin fields.
Future Outlook
Through this partnership, the three companies will promote the following initiatives by 2026:
- Development of PHA-based alternatives to microplastic beads utilizing Nikko Rica's advanced material development technologies
- Establishment of a stable supply system leveraging PhaBuilder's manufacturing technologies and mass-production capabilities
- Expansion of PHA products into cosmetic applications through HighChem's global market development capabilities
Through these initiatives, the partners aim to contribute to solving the microplastics issue in the cosmetics industry and support the development of a more sustainable beauty sector.
Company Profiles
Beijing Weigu Factory Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (PhaBuilder)
- Headquarters: Beijing, China
- President: Xu Xuanming
- Business Activities: Development, manufacturing, and sales of PHA resins
Nikko Rica Corporation
- Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- President: Hiroyuki Ishii
- Business Activities: Manufacturing and sales of chemical industry products
HighChem Company Limited
- Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- President: Ushio Taka
- Business Activities: Import and sales of chemical products; development and manufacturing of chemical products
HighChem, as both a chemical trading company and manufacturer, handles a wide range of products and technologies, from life science sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food, and pesticides to cutting-edge electronic components. In addition, the company’s manufacturing-focused Sustainability Division operates four research institutes and a catalyst mass-production plant in Japan and China. HighChem has commenced the development and commercialization of decarbonization technologies based on its C1-based SEG® technology, which has a licensing track record of 10 million tons per year, and utilizes CO2 for chemical production. The company is also focusing on the development of bio-chemical technologies and energy storage systems. Moving forward, HighChem will continue expanding its global business with a focus on more innovative products, technologies, and services.
For more information, please contact:
＜HighChem Company Limited Public Relations office＞
Ms. Kuroiwa (+81-90-6539-4213) TEL: +81-3-5251-8580 E-mail: koho@highchem.co.jp
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Marine biodegradable, made from 100% plant-derived materials. Available in both powder and pellet types.
