NantBioRenewables Named Finalist for Product Innovation at 2025 Reuters Global Sustainability Awards

GADSDEN, Ala.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NantBioRenewables is thrilled to announce that our innovative BioCal™ carbon-negative compostable straws—made with Ocean Calcium Sand and part of our Wave Ware™ brand, have been named a finalist for the prestigious Product Innovation Award at the 2025 Reuters Global Sustainability Awards. This honor reflects our commitment to pioneering sustainable business models and accelerating the transition toward a net-zero future.

In a recent LinkedIn post, Reuters celebrated the incredible achievements of all finalists in the Product Innovation Award category, showcasing innovations from AI-powered intelligence to biodegradable breakthroughs. We are proud to stand alongside esteemed companies including Atoco, DuPont, Clarity AI, Ciclo Technologies Inc., Zūm, Masdar, REN, UBQ Materials, Mercuria, and SCOR.

NantBioRenewables is part of the NANT ecosystem, a family of mission-driven companies founded by Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong. Across sectors like biotech, AI, immunotherapy, and clean technology, NANT companies share a unified vision: to solve the world’s most complex challenges through science, systems thinking, and radical innovation. We manufacture a range of compostable products under the Wave Ware brand, including straws, disposable tableware, and cutlery. These products are designed to be strong, durable, and compostable, promoting soil-friendly compost. Our focus on the full life cycle of our products—from sustainable sourcing of raw materials to compostable end-of-life solutions—ensures that we contribute positively to the environment. Our vision is to lead the change in replacing microplastics with compostable bioplastics worldwide, achieving global prominence by 2030 while prioritizing social responsibility.

NantBioRenewables is committed to transforming the packaging industry through our Wave Ware product line, which features a variety of sustainable, compostable solutions tailored for environmentally conscious consumers. Our BioCal™ straws signify a groundbreaking advancement in sustainable packaging. By incorporating Ocean Calcium Sand (OCS), a carbon-negative mineral, into our formulation, we deliver products that address both the beginning and end of life challenges for the environment. Manufactured in the United States, these straws not only reduce dependence on traditional petrochemical plastics but also actively contribute to CO₂ removal from the atmosphere during natural “whiting” events. Since our launch in 2023, we have processed over 84 million straws, achieving BPI certification and demonstrating our commitment to environmental stewardship.

Kenn Budlong, COO of NantBioRenewables, stated, "This recognition at the Reuters Global Sustainability Awards is a testament to our team's hard work and dedication. Our innovative approach to packaging not only addresses critical environmental challenges but also sets a new standard for what sustainable products can achieve. We are committed to leading the way in creating a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations."

"We are incredibly proud to be recognized among such distinguished peers," said Barbara Schreiner, Marketing & Communications manager at NantBioRenewables. "This nomination reflects our relentless pursuit of innovation and sustainability. We believe that by harnessing cutting-edge technology and sustainable materials, we can create impactful solutions that benefit both consumers and the planet."

The Global Sustainability Awards 2025 Ceremony will take place on October 22, 2025, where winners will be announced live.

“We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this special occasion as we showcase our ongoing efforts to transform industries and promote a more sustainable future,” said Lila Karlsen McNutt, Global Sales and Marketing Director at NantBioRenewables.

About NantBioRenewables

NantBioRenewables is a pioneering company dedicated to developing innovative, sustainable packaging solutions that address the world's environmental challenges. Through breakthrough technologies like Ocean Calcium Sand and the Wave Ware™ product line, the company is transforming how industries approach packaging while actively contributing to environmental restoration. Based on Gadsden, AL, USA, NantBioRenewables serves customers across food service, retail, and industrial markets with products that combine superior performance with exceptional environmental benefits.

About Wave Ware™

Wave Ware™ represents a new generation of sustainable packaging solutions that harness the power of ocean-derived renewable materials. The product line features patented Ocean Calcium Sand technology that delivers carbon-negative production, superior functionality, and complete compostability. Wave Ware™ products are designed for businesses and consumers who refuse to compromise between performance and environmental responsibility.

For more information about NantBioRenewables and our innovative products, please visit www.nantbr.com