This autumn (2002) the Homebase DIY chain in the UK introduced for the first time anywhere in the world, the new eco-friendly 'ComPot', that is re-usable but biodegradable to water and Crabon Dioxide under composting conditions. Otherwise it remains an ordinary rigid re-usable plant pot that can be washed and that fits into conventional growers' machinery and production systems. Homebase intends to retail the pot at all its outlets by spring 2003 as part of its commitment to reducing household waste created by gardeners. Other bio-degradable pots were found to break down too quickly or become brittle and crack too easily. Homebase sells more than 15 million pots a year and the new pot will play a significant role in reducing plastic waste. The 'ComPot' it is currently being manufactured by Synprodo Plantpak and has been introduced only after 2 years of commercial trials with growers. The secret however lies in the Italian made material called Mater-Bi, a starch based polyester copolymer, first commercialized in 1999 by Novamont SpA of Novara. The material has other widespread agricultural applications in the production of ropes, twines and mulching films (which have been found to have a comparable performance to polythene). Mater-bi is already being used for netting to hold food, foam sheet to protect wine bottles and for injection moulded cutlery. Novamont is also currently testing equipment to make foam trays which will be great news for horticulture in substituting those made of polystyrene and similar! The manufacture and distribution in Italy of plant pots made from Mater-bi is under evaluation. The material shows such promise that Novamont has started up a third production line for Mater-bi at its Terni factory, bringing annual production to 20,000 tonnes. "Horticulture Week" For information in Italy: Fax 0321 699600 E-mail: facco@matebi.com www.novamont.com