Applied Bioplastics’ unique technology permanently bonds natural fiber and polymer to produce durable plastic for manufacturers. By converting hydrophilic natural fiber to a state of hydrophobia, Applied Bioplastics bonds sustainable cellulose with other polymers. This reduces the carbon footprint of the plastic while retaining its ability to be used in standard manufacturing processes. Co-founder and CEO, Colin Ardern (BSBA ’12), answered our questions for this blog.
Website: appliedbioplastics.com
Tell us your startup story – What is the problem you’re solving?
Brand manufacturers are facing pressure from shareholders, customers, and (eventually) regulators to reduce the carbon footprint of their products and their operations. Those brands that demonstrably improve their carbon footprint realize a competitive advantage as their customers become more demanding of eco-friendly products.
What is your solution to that problem?
Our solution is to provide plant fiber/polypropylene blends that significantly reduce the carbon footprint of durable products made with our blends. Doing this at price parity and minimal switching costs makes the solution obvious and easy. Furthermore, our blends meet the mechanical properties needed for the applications.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned as an entrepreneur?
I seem to learn best through firsthand experience, and I have learned so much since starting Applied Bioplastics, but I don’t think I can easily distill it down into the biggest lesson. Sorry! Here are a few that I need to remind myself about: Follow-up is important, you can be nice but firm, and your time is your most valuable resource.
What do you love about entrepreneurship?
It forces you to think about issues from many different perspectives, and gives you exposure to all kinds of interesting things that you may not see working at a traditional job for your entire career.
What advice would you give to someone considering creating a startup or entering an entrepreneurship competition?
Creating a startup: Think critically about why your startup needs to exist, and whether you will still have the motivation to work on it not just tomorrow but also 2 or 5 years from now. Don’t take rejection personally and learn from it continuously. Ask a lot of questions. Entering a competition: Go for it!
What activities, student groups, professors, or classes had the biggest impact on you during your time at WashU?
Being a DJ at KWUR starting from the freshman pre-orientation had an impact on me, as did being a brother at TKE.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I have found entrepreneurship to be a deeply fulfilling way to make a more substantial positive impact on the world, but I don’t think that it is the only way. Whatever you decide to do with your life, please find something that gives you fulfillment if you have the economic means to do so, and don’t be governed by fear of failure or rejection.
The winner of the Spring 2022 GIA will be announced at The Washington University Innovation and Entrepreneurship Awards Presented by the Skandalaris Center on April 14. All are welcome to attend the awards ceremony to see which teams will win non-dilutive funding for their venture.