AirCarbon is a revolutionary biomaterial created by microorganisms that consume greenhouse gases in a controlled saltwater bioreactor. This innovative process captures methane or CO₂ and converts it into a biodegradable polymer known as PHB. This meltable and moldable material possesses properties similar to traditional plastic but with the added benefit of being carbon-negative.

One of the key advantages of AirCarbon is its versatility. It can be processed into various forms such as pellets, fibers, sheets, or molded items, making it suitable for a wide range of applications including foodware, fashion, packaging, and more. Additionally, AirCarbon is home compostable and achieves carbon-negative certification when produced using renewable energy sources.

By replacing fossil-fuel-based plastics with AirCarbon, industries can not only reduce their carbon footprint by preventing CO₂ emissions but also contribute to a circular life-cycle. After use, AirCarbon can naturally biodegrade or be anaerobically digested to generate energy, further enhancing its sustainability credentials.

The exceptional performance, eco-friendly attributes, and scalability of AirCarbon position it as a compelling alternative for businesses looking to enhance functionality while prioritizing environmental responsibility.

Key Characteristics

• Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Huntington Beach, California, with over 200 employees.

• Pioneers of AirCarbon®, a high-performance thermoplastic derived from greenhouse gases via proprietary biocatalysis.

• Uses microorganisms that consume methane and air to produce PHB (polyhydroxybutyrate), then pelletize it into plastic-like materials.

• The biocatalyst achieves exceptionally high yield (around 9:1 polymer-to-biocatalyst ratio), allowing cost-competitive production compared to petroleum plastics.

• Scale: operates a commercial plant converting methane emissions (e.g., dairy, landfills) into AirCarbon.

• Offers branded products under lines like Restore (foodware) and Covalent (fashion/accessories), including straws, cutlery, eyewear, and bags.

• Collaborates with major brands (e.g., Nike, IKEA, HP) to integrate AirCarbon into consumer goods.

Environmental Benefits

• Carbon-negative: captures and converts methane—a potent greenhouse gas—into durable biomaterial, actively reducing CO₂e in the atmosphere.

• No fossil feedstock: relies solely on air and captured emissions, eliminating reliance on oil or food crops.

• Biodegradable and compostable: breaks down in natural environments, reducing plastic pollution, especially in oceans.

• High-performance substitute: matches or exceeds properties of polypropylene and polyethylene, offering usability across hot, cold, reusable, and dishwasher-safe applications.

• Certified and recognized: awarded the U.S. EPA Presidential Green Chemistry Award, verified carbon-negative, and approved for home composting under OK Compost Home.

• Scalable & reusable model: a commercial-scale, nature-inspired solution that turns waste into materials, helping reduce plastic waste and mitigate climate change effectively.