EcoPHA Biotech Unveils World-First PHA Breakthrough at FEMS MICRO 2025 in Milan
FEMS MICRO 2025 – Federation of European Microbiological Societies Congress
Date: July 29, 2025
Source: femsmicro.org NewsHub.MediaNet & NewsOf NZ
Australian Innovation in the Spotlight
EcoPHA Biotech has announced a groundbreaking achievement at FEMS MICRO 2025 in Milan, one of the world’s most influential forums in microbiology and environmental science. This marks a key advancement in scalable, marine-safe bioplastics.
Ecopha’s Chief Technology Officer, Dr Long Nguyen at FEMS MICRO 2025 in Milan
Game-Changing Breakthrough
Chief Technology Officer, Dr Long Nguyen, revealed that EcoPHA has developed a novel method to use Pongamia oil—a carbon-sequestering, non-edible crop—as a renewable feedstock for producing PHB, a type of fully biodegradable plastic in the PHA family. This breakthrough process, now PCT patent-filed, allows scalable production of marine-safe bioplastics without leaving microplastic residue or requiring industrial composting.
“We’re excited to unveil our breakthrough in converting Pongamia oil into PHA bioplastics — a solution that combines environmental impact with scientific innovation,” said Dr. Wilson Ling, CEO and Co-Founder of EcoPHA Biotech.
Global Recognition
This development was presented as part of the official scientific program at FEMS MICRO 2025, drawing attention from leading academics, policymakers, and innovators in microbiology and environmental tech. It places EcoPHA at the forefront of sustainable materials science.
FEMS MICRO Milan 2025: Congress & Exhibition!
Why It Matters
Unlike many bioplastics, PHB produced by EcoPHA breaks down naturally in marine and soil environments, helping address the urgent global need for scalable and plastic-free packaging alternatives. Pongamia oil’s resilience, sustainability, and ability to grow on marginal land make it a superior input for climate-resilient manufacturing.
Key Facts:
- Event Location: Milan, Italy
- Event: FEMS MICRO 2025 – Federation of European Microbiological Societies Congress
- Date of Announcement: 29 July 2025
- Presented by: Dr Long Nguyen, CTO
- Breakthrough: Use of Pongamia oil as a novel PHB feedstock
- Patent Status: PCT patent filed for production process
- Impact: Scalable, compost-free, marine-safe bioplastics
- Recognition: Featured in global sustainability science program
About EcoPHA Biotech:
EcoPHA Biotech is an Australian biotechnology company developing marine-safe, fully biodegradable PHA plastics. The company focuses on renewable feedstocks like Pongamia oil and agricultural waste to produce plastic alternatives that break down in natural environments. With operations in Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney, EcoPHA combines microbial science and sustainability to shape a climate-resilient circular economy.