The Lao family’s D&L Polymer & Colours, part of the listed parent firm D&L Industries, is pioneering the use of natural fibers like abaca and vetiver as eco-friendly substitutes for plastics.
Decades in the making
“The Philippines has an endless supply of natural fibers that are mostly deemed as waste. About 25 years ago, even before the term ESG or sustainability became mainstream, we had already started exploring the possibilities of harnessing the potential of abaca fiber as an environmentally friendly complementary material or alternative to plastics,” said D&L Polymer president and CEO
“I think the positives outweigh the negatives,” Monzon told InsiderPH in a recent interview.
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“However, the technology to properly process abaca fibers at scale did not exist at the time, given its extraordinary strength known as the world’s strongest. More than two decades later, with the various advancements in technology, we are finally seeing our vision come to fruition,” he added.
Replacing plastics
According to D&L, the use of natural fibers can replace up to 40 percent of polymers in their products.
These composites also possess properties that complement or enhance plastics, resulting in more sustainable products.
Stronger, lighter, and sustainable
D&L said these new composites are stronger and more resilient without adding weight, allowing them to float in water.
This makes them ideal for use in a wide array of potential applications ranging from everyday consumer durables to industrial applications in the construction and automotive industries, among others.
“At the end of their normal life cycle, products made from natural fiber composites can be recycled or diverted using the typical waste systems. They can also be made compostable for better circularity,” the company said.
Breakthrough product
“What we have developed is a totally new material that is arguably breaking the boundaries of polymer science. With its unique characteristics and sustainable aspects, we are convinced that it has the potential to revolutionize the plastics industry,” according to Lao.
The next step is deploying these products at scale, which also involves educating customers.
“With the majority of the people in the industry not yet familiar with the technology and its potential applications, we believe that we are exploring uncharted territory with endless opportunities for innovators and pioneers like us,” Lao said.
“At this point, we believe that we are merely scratching the surface for a multitude of industries,” he added.
Miguel R. Camus has been a reporter covering various domestic business topics since 2009.
