A material science company, developing compostable and biodegradable thermoplastic materials, on a mission to create a circular model for consumer goods products.

Biobased materials refer to products whereby the source of carbon is derived from naturally occurring, sustainable resources.

BioCir™is the unique biodegradable combination of naturally occurring constituents binded by high molecular weight polymers and modifiers, that enable its elastomeric functionality for consumer goods and beyond. 

BioCycling is the ability to control a product’s end-of-life status in a biological recycling mechanism. The products go through decomposition and biodegradation in an industrial compost facility without leaving waste or contamination.

Biodegradable refers to material that can be consumed by microbial activity, being bacteria and/or fungi, into carbon dioxide, water, and microbial biomass. Biodegradable polymers require specific conditions to biodegrade, usually in an industrial compost facility. 

Bioplastics are not classified into a single class of material, however, are usually referred to as biodegradable or bio-based polymers. 

Compostable is used to describe a product that can disintegrate into the environment into non-toxic, basic building blocks. Compostable products break down into smaller compounds with the help of biological organisms, in a specific time frame in a controlled environment to produce compost that is non-toxic and can enhance soil and support plant life.

Decomposition is a process that takes place when bacteria and other microorganisms consume biodegradable materials. Temperature, moisture, and atmosphere play a crucial role in initiating decomposition. 

End of life in the context of manufacturing and product life cycles, is the final stage of a product’s existence when it reaches the end of its useful life.

An industrial compost facility closely monitors and controls the composting process on a large scale. Through the measurement of water, carbon, and nitrogen-rich inputs, compost facilities, biodegrade materials quickly and efficiently into non-hazardous waste that can be sold as a fertilizer to farms, plant nurseries as well as individuals. 

A molecule is a group of two or more atoms that form a small unit into which a pure substance can be divided while retaining the composition and chemical properties of the substance.

A polymer is any substance composed of very large molecules called macromolecules, having a repeating chemical unit.  Polymers make up many of the materials in living organisms as well as the basis of man-made materials. 

Slides are a type of light footwear that are characterized by having a loose heel that holds on to the foot from the front.

at Balena, sustainability means creating, designing, and developing new materials that reach their end of life responsibly, including the full decomposition and biodegrading of the material back into the ground safely, without polluting the land and the seas.

A class of polymer that can be shaped and reshaped, while softened through heating and processed using methods such as extrusion, injection molding, and thermoforming.