A UK-based supplier of metal powders and glitters has developed what it claims is the world’s first biodegradable glitter for the fashion industry, made primarily from Eucalyptus trees.
The Manchester-based firm Ronald Britton Ltd says its 92% plastic-free Deco Bioglitter is the first proven to degrade in the natural environment, such as soil, rivers, and lakes – unlike traditional glitter which is a microplastic and can be potentially harmful in the environment.
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Based on the plant material cellulose, rather than plastic, the product has been specially formulated to perform in coating and printing applications. It is also said to be safe for use on children’s products and clothing, complying with EN71 regulations and, based on testing, is expected to meet the requirements of Oeko-Tex.
“The new Deco Bioglitter, developed in particular for the fashion and print industry, replaces the plastic core used in traditional glitter, with a plant based product, a special form of cellulose unique to Bioglitter, made primarily from Eucalyptus trees,” explains commercial director Stephen Cotton. “The new plant glitter is completely durable on the shelf, but once it enters the environment, where microbes can act on it, it will degrade naturally, similar to a leaf.”
The product has recently undergone testing by the independent testing organisation OWS Belgium, which revealed its biodegradability in fresh water environments, with the vast majority of the content biodegrading in just four weeks.
“Tens of tonnes of plastic glitter are used in print, fashion and the general coatings industry. It’s a major microplastic issue and one that has seen a backlash from consumers who would normally buy products using glitter,” Cotton adds. “There’s political, retailer and consumer pressure to move to an eco-friendly option and Deco Bioglitter has been developed to address the issue. It’s the first glitter in the world proven to biodegrade in the natural environment and offers businesses working in the coating industry an eco-friendly option.”
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