Fort Worth, TX — June 7, 2016
Samsill Corporation, one of the world’s largest independently owned manufacturers of ring binders and organization products, announced the conversion of its Earth’s Choice ring binder line to certified bio-based materials — producing what is recognized as the world’s first USDA Certified Biobased ring binder.
The new Earth’s Choice binders combine 100% post-consumer recycled chipboard with a polypropylene cover containing 25% Green Polyethylene — a bioplastic made from sugarcane ethanol, a 100% renewable source. The finished product is at least 69% bio-based and carries the USDA Certified Biobased Product label.
“At Samsill, we strive to reduce the environmental footprint of our products, allowing consumers to have access to more sustainable choices,” said Drew Bowers, VP of Marketing at Samsill. “Creating a binder using 69% of USDA certified bio-based material was the next step toward an even more diverse, greener product line.”
The Green Polyethylene used in these binders is provided by Braskem, the world’s leading producer of biopolymers. The resin captures over 2.15 lbs of carbon dioxide for each pound of Green Polyethylene produced.
“We applaud Samsill for earning the USDA Certified Biobased Product label,” said Kate Lewis, USDA BioPreferred Program Analyst. “Products from Samsill are contributing to an ever-expanding marketplace that adds value to renewable agriculture commodities and decreases our reliance on petroleum.”
According to a 2015 USDA report, bio-based products contribute $369 billion to the U.S. economy each year, support 4 million jobs, and displace approximately 300 million gallons of petroleum annually.
Source: Braskem Press Release, June 7, 2016
