Overview
Novamont is a leading Italian chemical company headquartered in Novara, Italy, specializing in the development and production of biochemicals, biodegradable bioplastics, and sustainable materials for a circular bioeconomy. Founded in 1989, Novamont has grown to employ 600+ people and achieved annual sales of €170 million (as of 2016). In April 2023, the company was acquired by Versalis (part of the Eni Group), strengthening its position within one of Europe’s major energy and chemical corporations while maintaining its focused commitment to bioplastics innovation.
Novamont’s pioneering work in compostable and biodegradable materials has established it as a global leader in green chemistry solutions. The company’s Mater-Bi product family represents two decades of innovation in starch-based bioplastics, offering certified compostable solutions for diverse market applications.
Primary Materials and Products
Mater-Bi Family: Novamont’s flagship line of starch-based bioplastics and bio-based polyesters
- Certified compostable to international standards (EN 13432)
- Derived from renewable resources including plants and agricultural waste
- Suitable for industrial and home composting
- Available in multiple grades for different applications
- Proven track record in commercial applications across Europe
Bio-based 1,4-Butanediol (BDO): A renewable chemical building block
- Produced from sustainable feedstocks
- Used in polyester and other polymer synthesis
- Reduces fossil fuel dependence in chemical production
Origo-Bi: Biopolyester materials for advanced applications
- Developed for specific performance requirements
- Combines renewable content with enhanced properties
Matrol-Bi: Biodegradable bio-lubricants
- Environmentally friendly lubrication solutions
- Suitable for food-grade and industrial applications
Biodegradable Cosmetic Ingredients: Sustainable materials for personal care industry
Market Segments and Applications
Novamont’s products serve diverse industries:
- Packaging: Food packaging, beverage containers, flexible films
- Agriculture: Mulch films, biodegradable agricultural films
- Retail and Commerce: Shopping bags, carrier bags, point-of-sale packaging
- Waste Collection: Bags for organic waste collection and composting systems
- Automotive: Bioplastic components and interior applications
- Food Services: Compostable serviceware, food contact packaging
- Marine Applications: Specialized marine environment solutions
Production Facilities and Global Presence
Novara, Italy: Corporate headquarters and R&D laboratory focused on innovation and product development.
Terni, Italy: Major production facility for Mater-Bi and bioplastics manufacturing.
Bottrighe (Rovigo), Italy: Production facility contributing to company’s manufacturing capacity.
Patrica, France: Manufacturing facility expanding Novamont’s European production reach.
Dagö, Estonia: Production facility for expanded geographic presence and European market service.
Porto Torres (Sardinia), Italy: Home of Matrìca, a joint venture with Versalis focused on green chemistry and biochemicals production. This facility represents a strategic hub for advanced sustainable materials development.
Certification and Standards Compliance
Novamont’s materials are certified compostable to EN 13432 (European standard), ensuring products meet rigorous international standards for biodegradability and compostability. Products are approved by composting facilities and certified for industrial composting systems throughout Europe.
Strategic Acquisition and Future Direction
The April 2023 acquisition by Versalis (Eni Group) positions Novamont within a larger, integrated energy and chemistry company while maintaining its specialized focus on bioplastics and green chemistry. This integration provides access to additional resources for R&D, production capabilities, and global distribution networks. The Matrìca joint venture with Versalis in Porto Torres represents a strategic expansion of Novamont’s biochemical production capabilities.
Industry Leadership
Novamont is an active member of the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC) and other industry organizations promoting sustainable chemistry and circular bioeconomy solutions. The company contributes to advancing compostable materials standards, regulations, and market development through active participation in industry bodies and collaborations with leading brands seeking sustainable packaging alternatives.
Last updated: February 13, 2026 Information sourced from Novamont corporate website, Versalis announcement, and industry databases