Earthya launches compostable bags to tackle Malaysia’s microplastic crisis

MALAYSIA – Ranked as the world’s largest consumer of microplastics, Malaysia is stepping up its fight against plastic pollution with the launch of a fully compostable trash bag by local eco-brand Earthya.

Malaysians use an estimated nine billion plastic bags every year. Most eventually break down into microplastics that infiltrate the air, waterways, and food chain.

A 2022 study cited by The Straits Times found that Malaysians ingest an average of 502.3 milligrams of microplastics per person daily, or nearly 494,000 particles – the highest globally. More than half of this exposure comes from fish consumption.

To address the issue, Earthya has unveiled the Earthya Compostable Bag, developed after three years of research into alternatives to traditional plastics.

Unlike “degradable” plastics that still fragment into harmful residues, Earthya’s product is made from premium calcium carbonate and a certified compostable polyester, leaving behind no microplastic waste.

The bags can naturally decompose into plant fertiliser under home composting conditions or in soil without requiring industrial treatment.

They also have a shelf life of up to two years, longer than most cornstarch-based compostable bags, and are designed to be strong and durable while offering the same convenience as conventional plastic bags.

“Our goal is to normalise eco-friendly living and prove that sustainability doesn’t mean giving up convenience,” said Ivan Chan Bin Iuan, founder of Earthya.

“When you pick up an Earthya Compostable Bag, you can be assured it will never break down into microplastics or become a burden to the planet after disposal.”

The company stresses that small individual actions can add up. “If just one person chooses a trash bag that doesn’t break down into microplastics, that’s already a reduction. If thousands do the same, the impact on Malaysia’s pollution challenge will be meaningful,” Chan said.

Earthya’s bags carry several certifications, including TÜV Austria OK Compost (home compost certification), MyHijau (Malaysia’s green product label), BPI Compostable (U.S.), and Australia’s AS4736 industrial composting standard.

Beyond product innovation, Earthya also organises environmental talks, participates in exhibitions, and shares educational content online to raise awareness of microplastic hazards and inspire wider participation in sustainable practices.

By offering a plastic-free, certified alternative, Earthya hopes to empower Malaysian households to fight microplastic pollution “one bag at a time.”

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