Naturbeads, a UK-based startup, has successfully raised £7.8 million in a Series A funding round to advance its innovative technology aimed at addressing the growing global crisis of microplastic pollution. Founded in 2018 as a spinout from the University of Bath, the company has developed a cutting-edge platform technology focused on creating eco-friendly, scalable alternatives to microplastics found in everyday products.

The Series A round was led by St Andrews-based Eos Advisory, with additional participation from existing investor Progress Tech Transfer, as well as new investors CDP Venture Capital through its Corporate Partners I Fund, PI-NB, and Paragon Capital Management. The funds will enable Naturbeads to significantly expand its operations and build its first production facility in Puglia, Italy.

Pioneering Technology to Combat Microplastic Pollution

Naturbeads is pioneering a cellulose microsphere technology, which has been designed to replace harmful microplastics commonly used in personal care products, detergents, adhesives, paints, and more. Microplastics, which are plastic particles less than five millimetres in size, pose a severe threat to the environment, having been found in marine ecosystems, waterways, and even in the food chain. An estimated 2 million tonnes of microplastics are added to the environment each year through everyday products.

As microplastics persist in the environment for hundreds of years, their harmful effects on ecosystems and human health are becoming increasingly evident. The European Union has already begun to implement regulations aimed at phasing out microplastics in personal care products, with a ban on rinse-off products like shampoos and face washes set to take effect by 2027. This regulatory shift has underscored the urgent need for sustainable alternatives, which Naturbeads is poised to address with its innovative technology.

A Circular Approach to Sustainability

Naturbeads' leadership team, which includes CEO Dr. Giovanna Laudisio, CTO Professor Davide Mattia, and the late Professor Janet Scott, is committed to developing an industrial-grade solution to microplastic pollution. The company’s technology is distinguished by its ability to deliver high technical performance while maintaining a fully circular approach, ensuring that its products break down naturally without compromising product quality or environmental impact.

“The differentiator from other companies working on plastic packaging is that we are solely focused on microplastics found within daily products,” said Dr. Laudisio. “Our goal is to provide an eco-friendly, scalable alternative that helps reduce microplastic pollution in consumer products.”

Naturbeads is already collaborating with global manufacturers to integrate its cellulose microspheres into a variety of industrial applications, demonstrating their ability to perform well without contributing to long-term environmental damage. The company expects to achieve significant commercial milestones in 2025.

Expanding Production Capacity and Future Growth

The funding will be used to accelerate the company’s plans to scale up production, with the new plant in Puglia set to serve as a key hub for manufacturing its cellulose microsphere ingredients. This expansion will enable Naturbeads to meet the growing demand for sustainable ingredients across multiple industries, from cosmetics to cleaning products and agriculture.

Andrew Durkie, Partner at Eos Advisory, expressed confidence in the company’s vision and leadership. “Giovanna and her team are tackling one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time,” he said. “We are excited to support Naturbeads as it enters its next phase of commercialization and industrial growth.”

Alberto Calvo, Managing Director at Progress Tech Transfer, added, “Naturbeads is an excellent example of how a project that started in a laboratory can evolve into large-scale industrial production. The company’s bold ambitions and commitment to a fully circular approach are truly inspiring.”

The Road Ahead: A Sustainable Future

Naturbeads is positioning itself as a leader in the fight against microplastic pollution. With its pioneering technology, the company is not only helping to reduce the environmental impact of everyday products but also aligning itself with global sustainability goals. As regulations tighten and consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions rises, Naturbeads’ scalable and sustainable approach is well poised for growth.

The company’s ambitious plans for the next few years include ramping up production, expanding its partnerships with global manufacturers, and achieving significant commercial milestones. By providing a viable, sustainable alternative to microplastics, Naturbeads is on track to become a key player in the global effort to combat plastic pollution.

Naturbeads’ successful Series A funding round marks an exciting milestone for the company as it looks to expand its operations and technology to address one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. With the support of key investors and a dedicated leadership team, Naturbeads is well-positioned to lead the charge in creating a more sustainable future, free from the damaging effects of microplastics. As the company moves forward with plans to build its first production plant in Italy, the potential for scaling its eco-friendly solution is enormous, offering hope for a cleaner, healthier planet.