Recently, an interview with the founders of Bio-Mi company, Filip and Ivona Miketa, was published, in which they share their experiences, beginnings, and the work of Bio-Mi, driven by their dedication to the idea that innovations in the bioeconomy can thrive not only in small towns like Matulji but also beyond the borders of Croatia. Here’s an excerpt from the conversation, and the full article is available at the following link: https://poduckun.net/novosti/mladi-inovatori-i-proizvodjaci-iz-matulja–ivona-i-filip-miketa-vrecice-za-biootpad-radimo-na-bazi-skroba-a-40000-takvih-donirat-cemo-matuljcima
In the premises of the former TIBO factory, young couple Ivona and Filip Miketa have been working for years on creating biodegradable and compostable materials from natural polymers. The company, Bio-Mi, is dedicated to the production of final and semi-finished thermoplastic materials and products used for primary and secondary packaging and agricultural products. The initiative is not just business-oriented but, we believe, also environmentally significant, contributing to the sustainable future of the bioeconomy.
Two enthusiasts of the bioeconomy decided in early 2013 to explore the possibilities of this field and educate themselves about materials based on biological principles and their biodegradability. After gaining experience and participating in research projects, they decided to create new materials that would be compostable, biodegradable, and produced in Croatia. Over 20 years of shared life and 7 years of the company’s existence, they have successfully worked on 17 European projects, receiving 10 certificates for compostable and biodegradable products. They are particularly proud to be the first company in Croatia to participate in the Horizon 2020 program and to continue participating in the Horizon Europe program. Despite initial difficulties and criticism, they persevered thanks to their dedication and determination. They financed equipment with their own money, and Filip’s previous family background in the recycling industry provided them with additional support.
Filip and Ivona Miketa, with their team of experts, are focused on advanced engineering of new biological plastics and have become the first producers of certified thermoplastics based on biological principles in Eastern and Southeastern Europe. Currently, we have ten certificates for compostable and biodegradable products and participate in many innovation projects across Europe.
In addition to producing innovative materials, the company also helps the local community. A recent agreement was made to donate 40,000 biodegradable bags for separate collection of bio-waste to the Municipality of Matulji and the waste management company. We believe that in doing so, we are demonstrating, in a small way, our commitment to environmental principles and support for local sustainability.