Recently, Finnish startup Elea & Lili has successfully raised €2.5 million to commercialize a cellulose-based superabsorbent material that can replace fossil-based plastics in diapers and agricultural products.

Elea & Lili's cellulose superabsorbent is biodegradable and free of microplastics. It targets the last non-degradable component in modern diapers: superabsorbent polymers made from fossil fuels. Approximately 170 billion diapers are produced globally each year, generating nearly 40 million tons of waste.
Made from cellulose, this material offers absorption performance comparable to that of traditional polymers. It is compatible with existing diaper production lines and has passed safety and skin compatibility tests.

Lifeline Ventures led the seed round, with participation from Ikorni Invest and Baltiska Handels Sverige.