ökosix at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 | Biodegradable Plastic

The Challenge of Plastic Waste in Healthcare

The healthcare sector generates a substantial amount of waste in the form of single-use plastics. Specifically, U.S. healthcare facilities discard over 2,800 tons of plastic packaging and products on a daily basis.

A Personal Catalyst for Change

Eddie Yu became acutely aware of this issue through his experience founding a disposable mask company during the pandemic. A question from his niece regarding the recyclability of his masks prompted a realization about the environmental impact of his business.

He recounted to TechCrunch that after explaining the masks weren’t recyclable, his niece simply stated, “Oh, then you make a lot of trash every day.”

This comment deeply resonated with Yu, leading him to sell the mask company in 2021 and dedicate himself to finding a solution.

Introducing Ökosix and its Biodegradable Polymer

To address the pervasive problem of single-use plastics in healthcare, Yu established Ökosix. The company has developed a novel bio-based, biodegradable polymer.

Ökosix is currently participating in Startup Battlefield and will present its innovation at TechCrunch Disrupt in San Francisco later this month.

The Composition and Benefits of the New Material

The Ökosix polymer is created by blending several compounds. These include cellulose, chitosan sourced from crustacean shells, wax, and a unique, proprietary ingredient.

According to Yu, this resulting material is not only more affordable than polylactic acid (PLA), a common biodegradable plastic, but also offers equivalent or superior functionality.

Addressing Misconceptions About Biodegradability

Yu emphasizes that the term “biodegradability” is frequently misused within the plastics industry. Some materials require highly specific conditions for decomposition, while others merely break down into micro- or nanoplastics.

“We’ve got international certifications to prove that the material is completely gone in six months,” Yu affirmed.

Expanding Applications Beyond Face Masks

Ökosix is initially focusing on the production of face masks. However, the company intends to expand its product line to include surgical gowns, diapers, and sanitary napkins.

Yu stated their goal is to replace fossil plastics in disposable products with a safe, non-plastic alternative.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Although a formal life cycle analysis is still pending, Yu projects that Ökosix’s material will have a carbon footprint that is 90% lower than that of polypropylene, a widely utilized single-use plastic.

A Gore-Tex Inspired Business Model

Ökosix operates by selling its material to third-party manufacturers who then create finished products. “At the moment, our business model is like Gore-Tex,” Yu explained.

He further clarified that they provide the raw material layer, collaborating with companies such as 3M, rather than producing the final products themselves. He also suggested that branding could evolve to become a significant aspect of their business, mirroring the Gore-Tex model.

Funding and Future Events

The startup has successfully raised $2.3 million in funding, including contributions from the founders and angel investors.

Learn more about Ökosix and numerous other startups, participate in insightful workshops, and build valuable connections at this year’s Disrupt, scheduled for October 27 to 29 in San Francisco.