The PHA Toolbox: CJ Biomaterials on Performance, Proof, and End-of-Life
Sustainable Design Lab · 2026-02-09 · 37 min
Episode notes
Welcome to the Sustainable Design Lab podcast by Veritiv. Hosted by Chris Bradley and Brodie Vander Dussen, this show is your go-to resource for cutting-edge insights into the world of sustainable packaging. Join us as we reimagine packaging innovation and turn every decision into a powerful act of sustainability. In this episode, Leah Ford and John Licata of CJ Biomaterials break down how PHAs are literally grown by bacteria in massive fermentation tanks, how CJ is scaling from lab to full production, and where PHAs are already shining. What You’ll Learn: How to differentiate PHAs from other biopolymers Why paper coating represents the near-term commercial breakthrough for PHAs Designing credible compostable packaging How to validate compostability claims without greenwashing The hidden advantage of PHAs in worst-case environmental scenarios Leah Ford is Director of Global Marketing and Communications at CJ Biomaterials, bringing over 20 years of experience in the biopolymers industry. Her expertise spans the critical intersection of regulatory compliance, scientific innovation, and market perception, domains essential to advancing compostable materials.