[ USA, RI, 2 DECEMBER 2024 ] A groundbreaking shrink wrap material by bioaqualife™ is making waves in the marine industry, combining eco-friendly innovation with practical enhancements that simplify boat maintenance and winterisation. Entirely biodegradable and easier to install, this new product promises to transform how boats are protected during off-season or repair work.
Manufactured in the United States, the bioaqualife™ shrink wrap addresses one of the most pressing environmental concerns—plastic waste. Unlike conventional shrink wraps made from polymers that resist decomposition, bioaqualife’s material incorporates a monomer-based plastic. This design allows microbes in landfill environments to ’consume’ the plastic, breaking it down into harmless soil within three years. Importantly, this process avoids the issue of microplastics, which are prevalent with traditional materials. Given that over 46,000 tons of shrink wrap are used annually by the six million yachts in the U.S., this innovation offers a significant step toward reducing microplastic pollution in landfills and aquifers.
Beyond its green credentials, the bioaqualife™ shrink wrap stands out for its ease of installation. The inclusion of printed centre lines and distance markers at 60cm intervals eliminates guesswork, enabling faster and more accurate alignment. Simon Milne, Bioaqualife’s founder and a former professional yachtsman, emphasised that these features were designed with labour efficiency in mind. By streamlining the installation process, this product reduces labour costs and time—an important factor for large-scale shrink-wrapping projects.
The shrink wrap is available in two thicknesses, 7.0 mil and 7.5 mil, and widths ranging from 5.5 metres (18 feet) to 12.32 metres (40.4 feet), making it suitable for boats of any size. Its versatility extends beyond the marine industry, with potential applications in agriculture and construction. Despite its biodegradability, the material maintains the strength and durability of conventional shrink wraps, as confirmed by rigorous drop and stress tests.
While the cost per metre is slightly higher than traditional options, Milne argues that the reduced labour time offsets this expense. The material’s pale green hue distinguishes it visually and serves as a badge of its eco-friendly design, signalling a commitment to sustainability.
As environmental concerns continue to shape the yachting and marine industries, Bioaqualife’s innovative shrink wrap offers a timely and practical solution. Its combination of sustainability, durability, and efficiency is setting a new standard for shrink-wrap materials worldwide.
Article by Jody Paisey, Yachting Pages (Link)
For more information about bioaqualife™ and its range of biodegradable solutions, please visit bioaqualife.com.
About bioaqualife™: bioaqualife™ is an innovative company committed to providing biodegradable and recycled alternatives to single-use plastics. With their proprietary additive and products made in the USA, bioaqualife™ sets a new standard for sustainable solutions. Through their commitment to circular alternatives and environmental responsibility, bioaqualife™ aims to redefine industry norms and create a more sustainable world.
Media Contact Carsten Petersen GM, bioaqualife.com