Northern Technologies International Corporation unit Natur-Tec India and Bayer have partnered to co-develop biodegradable and compostable cups for seedlings.
The two parties have entered a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in this regard.
The partnership aims to “transform” nursery operations and support sustainable farming, according to a press release issued by Northern Technologies.
The project aims to replace single-use plastic cups used in nurseries while keeping the new product suitable for use with common nematicides and fungicides.
The cups are being designed to aid seedling growth in the early stages, including under exposure to crop protection treatments, without affecting germination, root formation or seedling vigour.
Natur-Tec vice-president and global market development director Vineet Dalal commented: "Our collaboration with Bayer goes beyond replacing conventional single-use plastics. It's about building nursery systems that work with nature rather than against it to create solutions that are practical for farmers today and responsible for the planet tomorrow.
"We're proud to leverage our expertise in compostable biopolymers to drive innovation that can genuinely move the needle for sustainable agriculture.”
The compostable cups are intended to decompose during transplant cycles, reducing waste generated in nurseries and aligning with circular economy practices.
The partnership combines Bayer’s crop science experience and Natur-Tec’s background in compostable biopolymers for the development of the product.
Trial runs are due to start in vegetable and fruit nurseries in India, where germination, growth indicators and yield results will be assessed.
If the process is validated, the companies intend to extend the product across India and other markets.
Bayer India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka crop science divisional head Simon Wiebusch said: "This partnership reflects a shared commitment to developing practical and cost-effective solutions that benefit farmers and strengthen farming ecosystems.
"It advances agricultural practices that are both scalable and sustainable, in line with Bayer’s commitment to regenerative agriculture.”
