Erthos

Erthos is a Canadian startup that produces bio-based plastics from a plant-based resin that can replace polystyrene and polypropylene components. The company provides bio-based plastic materials to manufacturers, which are fully compatible with existing production lines. It also produces bio-based products for businesses and uses AI-based tools to rapidly develop resins for companies. 

Its materials include erthos terrariza, a bio-based alternative to polypropylene suitable for injection molding lines (typically used for rigid single- or limited-use plastics) as well as erthos terrafyllo, a bio-based alternative to low-density polyethylene (suitable for casting extrusion lines; used in thin, flexible packaging). The company also produces caps and closures, branded containers, fashion hangers, and cutlery in addition to custom products that businesses may require.

The company claims its materials and products are food-safe, free of microplastics, tree-free, and compostable. Compared with the conventional plastics it can replace, the company’s products are stated to generate 98% water savings, 70% carbon savings, and 50% energy savings.

Key customers and partnerships

Erthos claims it has developed bioplastics for several CPG brands and plastics manufacturers. In 2021, the company partnered with beverage producer AB InBev as part of its 100+ Accelerator program to develop fully compostable keg caps and six-pack rings using bioplastics. The company has also partnered with Swedish industrial manufacturer Atlas Copco and US thermoplastic extrusion company Vidon Plastics to launch high-volume, sustainable auto-packaging materials for net-zero production facilities.

Funding and financials

In September 2023, the company raised CAD 6.5 million (~USD 4.8 million) to develop its solutions in a Series A funding round led by Horizon Ventures.