tree protection covers made of bioplastics
The biodegradable alternative to conventional films.
The tree protection sleeve made of PLA – sustainable and safe.
The PLA (derived from sugar) tree protection sleeve is the ideal solution wherever conventional petroleum-based plastic films need to be replaced with an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative. It offers biodegradability and compostability – a crucial advantage, especially if parts of the sleeve remain in the forest due to mechanical impact. This reliably prevents the formation of persistent microplastics, which are common with petroleum-based materials.
The tree protection cover is made from a transparent material. NaKu biopolymer film, which is based on rapidly renewable plant-based raw materials. It therefore makes an important contribution to resource-efficient and ecological forestry.
From professionals for professionals
Our tree shelter is the result of genuine collaboration: foresters, forest owners, and forestry workers contributed their expertise to create a product that meets the demands of nature. Thoughtful design and sustainable materials ensure reliable protection for many tree species – robust, practical, and environmentally friendly.
Particular emphasis was placed on transparency for ideal light penetration and on a healthy microclimate through efficient air circulation and humidity regulation.
The system is designed for ease of use: assembly is tool-free and without cable ties – even wearing gloves is no obstacle.
Why a film made of bioplastic
Conventional tree shelters are mostly made of petroleum-based plastics – neither environmentally friendly nor sustainable. If such films end up in nature, they break down into microplastic particles that remain permanently in the environment and pose a danger to animals and humans. Furthermore, these materials are often contaminated with pollutants.
The NaKu Bio-Foil It offers an environmentally friendly alternative: it is biodegradable, compostable, and made from renewable raw materials. Specifically developed for use in agriculture and forestry, it is ideally suited for the production of tree sleeves and similar applications. Its goal: to sustainably replace the use of conventional materials that generate microplastics.
► Made from 100% rapidly renewable, plant-based raw materials (PLA – polymerized lactic acid)
► Free from harmful substances
► Industrially compostable according to DIN 13432
► No formation of permanent microplastics
► Easy to write on and print
► Water-resistant, dimensionally stable & tear-resistant
► Material: OK Compost Industrial
► Locally produced - made in Austria
The NaKu tree protection sleeve in use
Natural material: The NaKu tree shelter is made from an innovative, sugarcane-based biopolymer. The material is produced entirely from renewable resources and is 100% biodegradable and compostable (DIN 13432). This means no pollutants remain – especially no microplastics – even if parts of the shelter stay in the forest. A genuine contribution to a clean and healthy environment. The material can be recycled through appropriate recycling processes.
High light transmission: In developing our tree shelter, we placed particular emphasis on transparency and light transmission. The material composition and the carefully designed perforation pattern ensure that sufficient photosynthetic light reaches the plant without causing burns. Even sensitive tree species thrive optimally under these conditions – for healthy growth right from the start.
Optimal microclimate: The special perforated pattern of our tree shelter ensures high air circulation, thus preventing the formation of fungi caused by excessive moisture. Fresh air and a balanced microclimate promote the health of the trees and reduce losses, even in sensitive species. At the same time, the necessary stability and protection from the elements are maintained.
Easy to use & stable: The plant support sleeve is delivered flat to save space and can be quickly and easily assembled on-site into a sturdy protective cover – no cable ties required. Integrated tabs for mounting rods make assembly particularly user-friendly, even with gloves in wet and cold conditions. This saves you time and effort without compromising stability and protection. Depending on environmental conditions, its lifespan is between 5 and 10 years.
Customizable: Individual branding of the tree protector, for example with your logo, labeling of the compostable, renewable material for your sustainability communication, etc., is possible. Other dimensions (e.g., height of the tree protector) can also be custom-made.
The technical material properties of the tree protection sleeve/growth protection sleeve
Material
Tree protection sleeve/growth protection
- ► 100% polymerized lactic acid (PLA) without modification
- ► Percentage of renewable raw materials: 100%
- ► Compostability according to DIN EN 13432: industrial compostability
- ► Local production: Made in Austria
Dimensions of tree protection sleeve/growth protection
- ► Width: 600 mm
- ► Thickness: 400µ, 450µ, 500µ
- ► Core diameter: 76 mm
Features of tree protection sleeve/growth protection
- ► Density: 1,24 g/cm³
- ► Vicat softening point: 55°C
- ► Gas permeability (250μ, 20°C): 560 cm³/m².d.bar
- (Method ASTM D 1434)
- ► Water vapor permeability (250μ, 20°C): 280 g/m².d (method ASTM E-96)
- ► Store in a dry, dark place
- ► Avoid storing in direct sunlight and at temperatures above 55°C.
- ► Maximum recommended storage period: 3 years
General product information for further processing into products made from NaKu biopolymer film
The material impresses with its versatile properties: it can be easily formed, deep-drawn, and reliably sealed. Various welding processes are available for further processing – high frequency, ultrasound (depending on the counter medium), or laser. The specific suitability should always be verified by the user.
Liability
The values mentioned above are based on current technical data and average values. They serve as a guide and do not represent guaranteed properties. It is the user's responsibility to verify suitability for the intended application.
Further application examples of the biopolymer film
► Labels (e.g. high-quality, sustainable clothing in the fashion industry)
► Loop labels/loop labels (e.g. sustainable & environmentally conscious gardening centers & tree nurseries but also in workshops for key identification
► Carrying handles/carry handles and pot cuffs (e.g. for sustainable and environmentally conscious gardening)
► Plug-in labels and click labels (e.g. for sustainable and environmentally conscious gardening)
► Price labels and picture cards
► Tree protection sleeves or growth sleeves (e.g. for sustainable foresters and forestry companies)
► Door hangers (e.g. for sustainable hotels)
► Luggage tags (e.g. for sustainable airlines, travel agencies and tour operators)
► Label cards (e.g. for sustainable retail and commercial businesses)
► Billboards & advertising banners (for anyone who wants to advertise sustainably)
► and much more…
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the NaKu Tree Protection Cover
What makes the NaKu tree protection sleeve sustainable?
The casing is made from an innovative, sugarcane-based biopolymer (PLA) that is produced from 100% renewable resources. It is biodegradable and compostable, meaning no microplastics are left behind in nature.
How does this cover differ from conventional tree shelters?
Unlike petroleum-based films, our cover does not produce permanent microplastics and contains no harmful substances. It is environmentally friendly, resource-efficient, and locally produced in Austria.
Is the tree protection cover really compostable?
Yes, the casing is industrially compostable according to DIN EN 13432.
How long does the tree shelter last in use?
The cover is water-resistant, dimensionally stable, and tear-resistant. When used correctly, it provides protection for several years before biodegrading.
Which tree species can be protected?
The cover was developed in collaboration with forestry experts and is suitable for a wide variety of tree species – including sensitive species such as service tree or oak.
How is the cover delivered and installed?
It is delivered flat to save space and can be easily assembled on site – without any cable ties. Integrated tabs make it easy to attach, even with gloves in wet and cold conditions.
Does the covering promote tree growth?
Yes, thanks to high light transmission and optimal air circulation, a healthy microclimate is created. The perforated pattern prevents mold growth and ensures sufficient photosynthetic light.
Are pollutants or microplastics produced?
No. The casing is free of harmful substances and leaves no residue – especially no microplastics – even if parts remain in the forest.
What are the technical properties of the material?
100% PLA (polymerized lactic acid), density: 1,24 g/cm³, Vicat softening point: 55 °C, water and gas tight according to ASTM standards, industrially compostable according to DIN EN 13432
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Your personal contact
Do you have further questions about our products or about the individual printing of the environmentally friendly NaKu bags, about the individual labeling of the NaKu bottles, about special projects or do you need an offer for large quantities?
Lizzy Weinert is looking forward to hearing from you:
E-Mail: office∂naku.at
Tel: +43(0)660 551 7789
(weekdays Mon – Thu from 09:00 – 16:00 and Fri from 09:00 – 14:00)