Australian Hi-Tech Biodegradable Material – “Plastic from Plants”

A German designed eco-factory powered by bio-diesel and solar energy arrives in one of Australia’s favourite country towns. This new factory produces high quality musical instruments, light shades, homeware, furniture and other products from ‘Zelfo’.

Zelfo is a biodegradable material produced from plant fibres and waste including hemp and sugar-cane.

No toxic chemicals, resins or glues are used in the production of this mouldable material.

Oil prices skyrocket, forests diminish and pollution affects more people every day. We all want something to be done, but enjoy our ‘creature comforts’ and most of us are not willing to pay a premium for ‘green alternatives’.
One option is to return to nature and use sustainable agriculture and plants. Now an Australian Company leads the world in sustainable commercial production of such materials.
With super-strength this 100% biodegradable material takes advantage of a mechanical process designed by nature. This patented process works with the existing structural integrity naturally found in plant cell walls. Zelfo is strong, cost effective and looks great.

Zelfo Australia’s new Board includes long-time Australian and European hemp pioneer and author Paul Benhaim, Zelfo’s original patent creator Martin Ernegg, sustainable ventures business consultant Mitra Ardron and WOM Pacific, a Company pioneering the organic hemp industry in Australia and Japan.

Products are being produced to the request of designers and manufacturer’s. So far a list of Zelfo items produced include an internationally known Georgio Armani bowl, award winning furniture (chair and stool), musical instruments and jewellery. The possibilities are endless with Zelfo expected to enter markets that are traditionally based upon wood, fibre glass, glass and some plastics.

Zelfo Australia works with established designers, manufacturers and builders to produce strong eco-alternatives to their existing products. Designers from Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Perth are literally queuing up to have their product made from Zelfo, produced in Mullumbimby, New South Wales.

“We do not foresee our products making wood or plastics redundant just yet,” laughs Mangaing Director Paul Benhaim “Zelfo products are attractive to designers and business’ wanting strong, quality eco-friendly replicable ranges with that quality ‘handmade’ feel.”

This factory is powered by green energy, recycle as much of its water as possible, and emit no toxic wastes. “Integrity and ethical authenticity is a key foundation to our business,” states Paul Benhaim, “Quality without Qualms and Strength with Sustainability are our mottos.”

Raw materials that may be used include sugar cane, hemp, jute, flax, waste paper and textile scraps.

What is your vision for a Zelfo future?

www.zelfoaustralia.com

Zelfo Australia Pty Ltd
PO Box 1069 Mullumbimby NSW 2482 Australia

Note To Editors:
For high quality pictures, please choose a low-quality version from website and email us with file name so we can supply.

Please contact us for interviews. Factory visits will be available from 2007. Technical information and further details available on request.