The beer cups used at Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix were a groundbreaking first for the event, as they were made of compostable Biodolomer, a bioplastic developed by Swedish company Gaia Biomaterials.
The cups, supplied by UK-based Happy Dolphin, were used on a large scale for the first time, with 150,000 being provided to event promoters and organizers Ethara.
Biodolomer is a bioplastic that is compostable, durable, and does not leave microplastics. It is made from natural minerals and vegetable oils and can be used for a variety of applications, including grocery bags, food packaging, agricultural film, and toys. Biodolomer is CO2 neutral and does not result in any microplastics. It is a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic.
David Hughes, from Happy Dolphin, commented: “It’s a fantastic sign of recognition to have been chosen by such a prestigious event.”
Gaia Biomaterials CEO Peter Stenström said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to show the world what our material can do, and that it is possible to totally eliminate plastic waste.” The cups are suitable for printing and can be collected with food waste and put straight into an industrial compost, resulting in soil high in minerals.
The cups used in Abu Dhabi were developed by Happy Dolphin to be suitable for major events, being sturdy enough to reduce foaming from beer taps and able to be printed on all sides.
Hughes added: “They are extremely robust. 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.”
