Plastic wrap made from seaweed withstands heat and is compostable

A cling film made from an invasive seaweed can withstand high temperatures yet is still easily compostable. The material could eventually become a sustainable choice for food packaging.

Large quantities of thin plastic films, like those for wrapping produce or baked goods, are used every year. Most end up as garbage, either because they require specialised recycling facilities or can’t be recycled at all. Some biodegradable plastics do exist, but they can take months or even years to decompose. Keeran Ward …