Metabolix to commence constuction of bio-derived plastics unit

13-Dec-06

Metabolix Inc, is to commence construction of a commercial manufacturing facility to produce 110 million pounds of biodegradable Natural Plastic annually. Metabolix has receiving relevant permits for the project. The facility is being constructed as part of a joint venture agreement with Archer Daniels Midland Company, a world leader in agricultural processing and fermentation. The Natural Plastic commercial manufacturing facility will be located adjacent to ADM's corn wet mill in Clinton, Iowa. The plant will utilize starch from the mill's existing corn grind capacity as raw material. Metabolix currently develops and commercializes environmentally sustainable and totally biodegradable Natural Plastic, is a breakthrough technology that has the potential to provide a renewable and sustainable alternative to petrochemical-based plastics, and to positively impact climate change, pollution and energy security. Natural Plastics can be used as an alternative to petrochemical plastics in range of applications, including coated paper, film or bags, and thermoformed and molded goods. Metabolix and ADM currently operate a pilot manufacturing facility to produce precommercial quantities of material and developing applications with selected customers.