CJ Biomaterials and Yuhan-Kimberly Launch the World’s First Biodegradable Reusable Paper Towel
World’s First Biodegradable Reusable Paper Towel Launched by CJ Biomaterials and Yuhan-Kimberly
World’s First Biodegradable Reusable Paper Towel Launches in South Korea
CJ Biomaterials and Yuhan-Kimberly have launched the world’s first biodegradable reusable paper towel made with amorphous PHA biopolymers.
The new Kleenex® Biodegradable Reusable Dishtowel is now available in South Korea. The product was developed using CJ Biomaterials’ proprietary PHACT™ A1000P technology and is designed to offer consumers a more sustainable alternative to traditional disposable paper towels.
The launch follows a partnership between the two companies that began in 2022 to develop environmentally friendly consumer products using advanced biobased materials.
Paper Towel Made From Plant-Based Materials
The biodegradable reusable paper towel is produced using plant-derived materials including cellulose, PLA, and PHA made from sustainably grown sugarcane feedstocks.
According to CJ Biomaterials, PHACT™ A1000P is a soft and flexible biopolymer that can replace conventional plastic materials in nonwoven products while naturally biodegrading after disposal.
The companies said the product does not create persistent microplastics, making it a cleaner alternative for household use.
Certified Compostable and Marine Biodegradable
PHACT™ A1000P has received several international certifications for biodegradability and compostability.
These certifications include:
- BPI certification for home and industrial compostability
- TÜV AUSTRIA OK compost HOME
- TÜV AUSTRIA OK compost INDUSTRIAL
- OK biodegradable MARINE
- OK biodegradable SOIL
The material is produced through a fermentation process that converts plant sugars into biodegradable biopolymers.
Improved Strength and Reusability
Yuhan-Kimberly explained that the new reusable towel was developed to improve both softness and durability compared with conventional biodegradable nonwoven products.
Earlier testing with PLA-only materials created performance limitations during manufacturing and daily use. By adding amorphous PHA, the company improved flexibility, softness, and mechanical strength while maintaining existing production speeds.
The towel can be washed and reused multiple times before disposal, helping reduce single-use waste in homes and restaurants.
Designed to Reduce Persistent Microplastics
The product also passed persistent microplastic testing conducted by the KOTITI Testing & Research Institute in South Korea.
CJ Biomaterials said its PHA technology was specifically developed to support the transition away from conventional plastics that remain in the environment for long periods.
The companies believe consumer demand for sustainable household products will continue to grow as awareness of plastic pollution increases globally.
Companies Highlight Sustainability Goals
Max Senechal, Chief Commercial Officer at CJ Biomaterials, said the partnership demonstrates how PHA materials can support sustainable consumer products without sacrificing performance.
Yuhan-Kimberly stated that the launch aligns with its long-term environmental strategy, including its goal of increasing sales of sustainable products by 2030.
The company also said it plans to continue investing in environmentally responsible hygiene and household solutions.
Product to Be Featured at INDEX™ 2026
CJ Biomaterials confirmed that the biodegradable reusable paper towel will be showcased at INDEX™ 2026.
The companies expect the launch to help expand the use of sustainable nonwoven materials across the global consumer goods industry.
About CJ Biomaterials
CJ Biomaterials is a division of South Korea-based CJ CheilJedang and a producer of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolymers.
The company develops biodegradable materials for packaging, food service products, nonwovens, and consumer applications through proprietary fermentation technology designed to support a circular bioeconomy.
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