Compostify (Bioplastics)

About Compostify (Bioplastics)

Compostify is a New Zealand-based eco-startup providing bioplastic solutions designed to replace single-use plastics, primarily targeting the horticultural sector. The company was co-founded by CEO Steve Wilson, who has a background in scaling technology businesses, and COO Peter Wilson, whose experience in habitat restoration highlighted the environmental damage caused by plastic plant pots. The journey began after five years of development and testing, culminating in a patented bioplastic alloy that is durable above ground but biodegrades in soil or home compost systems.

Compostify's business model involves manufacturing and supplying its proprietary bioplastic pellets, made from a blend of sustainably sourced biopolymers like PLA and BioPBS with organic bio-fillers, to industrial partners. These partners then use their existing machinery to produce final products, such as plant pots, rebar safety caps, and weed mat pins. This “drop-in” solution allows manufacturers to switch from fossil-fuel-based plastics without significant changes to their equipment or processes. The company markets its solutions to manufacturers, distributors, growers, nurseries, and retailers. Its revenue is generated through the sale of these bioplastic pellets and licensing its technology.

The core product is a bioplastic material that remains stable for up to 12 months above ground but begins to break down once in contact with soil, fully composting within a year and leaving no microplastics or toxic residues. Unlike many other bioplastics that require industrial composting facilities, Compostify's material is certified for home compostability. A key benefit is that as the products, such as plant pots, decompose, they act as a fertilizer, nourishing the plant and soil. This eliminates the need for pot removal during planting, saving time and reducing root damage. The company's initial focus is on replacing the 350 million plastic plant pots used annually in New Zealand, and it has already secured multi-ton orders. It is also expanding into the construction sector with products like rebar safety caps.