CURITIBA, Brazil – Celebrated international designer Patricia Urquiola unveiled her latest collection, Naturalia, at the Milan Design Week, featuring tables crafted from compostable Luminy® PLA bioplastics compounds produced by Earth Renewable Technologies (ERT). This innovative collection underscores the significant role designers can play in addressing global plastic waste and carbon footprint reduction issues.

The collection, which includes coffee and side tables, was developed using an ERT® (Earth Renewable Technologies) compound that includes Luminy® PLA bioplastics, a sustainable material produced by TotalEnergies Corbion, the joint venture between TotalEnergies and Corbion.

This bioplastic was transformed into modernist-inspired furniture pieces by Urquiola for ETEL, the São Paulo-based furniture brand with galleries in Milan and Houston, and representatives in more than 10 countries around the world. The unique coloration of the tables, resembling stone or granite from a distance, is achieved through a combination of various clays and herbs. The incorporation of herbs not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a holistic experience.

Unlike traditional plastic materials, when degrading, the PLA based compound will not leave persistent microplastics in the environment. At their end of life, PLA bioplastics decompose 100% in industrial compost facilities, contributing to a circular economy. This sustainable alternative to traditional plastics is also used for various other applications, including supermarket and trash bags, straws, and disposable tableware.

Kim Fabri, CEO of Earth Renewable Technologies (ERT), the company behind the compounds made with Luminy® PLA bioplastics, highlighted: “Producing biobased and compostable materials that can utilize the benefits of bioplastics in sectors beyond single use is a key step to answer current sustainability concerns, and the design industry is the perfect example to show we can combine functionality and aesthetics for a more sustainable future.”

For more information on Earth Renewable Technologies, please visit www.ertbio.com.