In a world drowning in plastic waste, one company is revolutionizing the way we protect our smartphones. Pela Case has emerged as the pioneer of truly biodegradable phone cases, offering consumers a guilt-free way to safeguard their devices while protecting the planet. With over 100,000 customers already making the switch, Pela is proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand.

The Plastic Problem: Why We Need Better Solutions

Every year, thousands upon thousands of plastic phone cases end up in landfills and oceans simply because they no longer fit new phone models. These conventional cases, made from petroleum-based plastics and silicone, take hundreds of years to decompose—if they ever break down at all. The toxic chemicals they release during degradation harm wildlife, contaminate water sources, and contribute to the growing microplastics crisis.

Consider this sobering reality: with approximately 1.56 billion smartphones sold globally each year, and roughly 75% of users opting for protective cases, that’s over a billion plastic cases potentially heading to waste streams annually. The environmental cost is staggering, and traditional phone case manufacturers have offered no sustainable alternatives—until now.

Meet Pela: The World’s First 100% Compostable Phone Case

Founded by materials scientist Jeremy Lang, Pela Case was born from a deeply personal moment. While playing with his young son Cole on a Hawaiian beach, Lang repeatedly found plastic waste washing ashore. That experience sparked a mission: to create everyday products that wouldn’t contribute to the plastic pollution crisis affecting future generations.

Lang, a Saskatchewan native from a family of Canadian prairie farmers, recognized an opportunity in his own backyard. Saskatchewan grows the most oilseed flax in the world, and the flax straw byproduct from oil-making was typically considered waste—often burned in fields because it was too difficult to break down. But Lang saw potential in this shock-absorbent, naturally strong material.

The Technology Behind Pela: Introducing Flaxstic®

What sets Pela apart isn’t just good intentions—it’s groundbreaking materials science. The company’s signature innovation is Flaxstic®, a proprietary blend that forms the foundation of their compostable phone cases.

What Is Flaxstic®?

Flaxstic® is a revolutionary material combining three key components:

• Flax straw waste – Agricultural byproduct that would otherwise be burned
• Plant-based biopolymers – Renewable, toxin-free alternatives to petroleum-based plastics
• Recycled materials – Incorporating post-consumer content to maximize sustainability

Currently, Pela’s Flaxstic® cases contain 45% biobased content by weight, with the company committed to increasing this percentage toward their goal of 100% renewable materials. The remaining 55% uses non-renewable resources, but even this partial solution represents a significant improvement over conventional plastic cases.

Meeting International Standards

Pela doesn’t just make sustainability claims—they back them up with rigorous testing and certifications. Their biodegradable phone cases meet both U.S. (ASTM D6400-04) and European Union (EN 13432) standards for industrial composting. More impressively, Pela cases are designed to fully break down in home composting environments within 6 months to 2 years, depending on conditions like moisture, oxygen, and temperature.

The material has been independently tested and verified as free from harmful substances including BPA, phthalates, lead, and cadmium. Pela products meet child safety standards in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand—making them safe for every member of your family.

Compostable vs. Biodegradable: Understanding the Difference

One of Pela’s most important contributions to the sustainable phone case market is educating consumers about the critical distinction between “biodegradable” and “compostable”—terms that are often incorrectly used interchangeably.

Independent testing comparing Pela cases to supposedly “biodegradable” competitors in simulated composting environments revealed dramatic differences. After 12 weeks in industrial compost conditions, Pela cases had almost completely broken down while traditional biodegradable cases remained largely intact.

Protection Without Compromise: Performance Testing

Skeptics might wonder: can a compostable phone case really protect an expensive smartphone? Pela has invested heavily in testing to prove the answer is a resounding yes.

The cases have been tested to withstand drops far exceeding typical pocket-height falls. The natural shock-absorbing properties of flax fiber, combined with the flexible biopolymer matrix, create a protective barrier that rivals conventional plastic cases. The soft, grippy texture also reduces the likelihood of drops in the first place—a preventive feature that many users appreciate.

Key Design Features:

• Wraparound raised edges – Protect the screen and camera from surface contact
• Precise cutouts – Easy access to buttons, ports, and speakers
• Slim profile – Maintains phone’s sleek design while adding protection
• Enhanced grip – Natural texture prevents slips without feeling bulky
• Unique aesthetic – Visible flax speckling creates distinctive, natural appearance

Pela even backs up their protection claims with a warranty: if your screen cracks while using both a Pela Case and their liquid screen protector, they’ll cover the repair costs.

Made in North America: Sustainable Manufacturing

Pela’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond their product materials to their entire manufacturing process. Over 80% of their cases are produced at the Kelowna Sustainability Studio in Canada, where they also:

• Test composability of materials
• Develop new sustainable product innovations
• Recycle and regrind materials from their Pela 360 program
• Manufacture custom engraved designs

For products they cannot currently produce domestically—like their clear cases featuring 100% plant-based back panels—Pela partners with carefully vetted manufacturers who maintain their stringent sustainability standards.

The company has chosen ocean shipping over air freight despite longer delivery times, recognizing that ocean transport has significantly lower environmental impact. Every decision, from production to distribution, prioritizes planetary health.

Beyond Cases: The Pela Ecosystem

While phone cases launched the company, Pela has expanded their sustainable accessories line to include:

• Apple Watch Bands – The world’s first compostable watch straps
• AirPods Cases – Protect your earbuds without plastic waste
• AirTag Holders – Secure tracking devices with sustainable materials
• Phone Grips – Adjustable loops made from Flaxstic®
• Card Holders – Stick-on wallets for minimalist carry
• Sunglasses – Frames incorporating recycled ocean plastic
• Blue Light Glasses – Screen protection for your eyes with sustainable frames

Pela has also launched Lomi, an at-home composting device that turns organic waste—including your old Pela case—into nutrient-rich soil, creating a closed-loop system for waste reduction.

The Pela 360 Program: Closing the Loop

Pela takes responsibility for their products throughout their entire lifecycle through the innovative Pela 360 program. This circular economy approach includes:

Customer Reviews: Real Experiences with Pela Cases

With thousands of satisfied customers worldwide, Pela Cases have earned impressive ratings and enthusiastic testimonials.

What Customers Love:

• Unique textured appearance that sparks conversations
• Better grip compared to slippery plastic cases
• Guilt-free disposal when upgrading phones
• Plastic-free, compostable packaging
• Wide variety of colors and artistic designs
• Supporting a mission-driven company

Giving Back: Environmental Commitments

Pela’s mission extends beyond creating sustainable products. As a certified member of 1% for the Planet, the company donates at least 1% of annual sales to environmental causes focused on ocean cleanup, plastic pollution prevention, and ecosystem restoration.

The company has partnered with organizations dedicated to:

• Removing plastic waste from oceans and waterways
• Protecting marine wildlife and habitats
• Supporting renewable energy initiatives
• Educating consumers about sustainable choices
• Advancing bioplastic research and development

Every Pela Case purchase directly contributes to these vital environmental initiatives, making consumers active participants in positive planetary change.

Addressing Greenwashing: Pela’s Transparency

In an era where “greenwashing”—misleading environmental marketing claims—runs rampant, Pela stands out for their radical transparency. The company openly acknowledges that they haven’t achieved perfection:

• They clearly state their current 45% biobased content and goals for improvement
• They distinguish between biodegradable and compostable without using terms interchangeably
• They provide third-party certification rather than self-certification
• They share detailed information about manufacturing processes and emissions
• They admit when products aren’t 100% compostable and offer return programs

This honesty builds trust with environmentally conscious consumers who are tired of empty sustainability promises. Pela positions itself not as perfect, but as constantly improving—a realistic and authentic approach to sustainable business.

The Investment: Pela Case Pricing and Value

Pela Cases are competitively priced with premium traditional phone cases, typically ranging from $45-$60 depending on model and design. While slightly more expensive than budget plastic options, customers consistently note that the value proposition extends far beyond the product itself:

Pela frequently offers promotions including:

• 10% discount for email newsletter subscribers (never expires)
• Free shipping on orders over $20
• Buy one, get one free promotions on select products
• Artist series collaborations with exclusive designs

Who Should Choose Pela Cases?

Pela Cases are ideal for:

• Environmentally conscious consumers seeking to reduce plastic consumption
• Parents wanting toxin-free products for family members of all ages
• Professionals looking to align purchases with corporate sustainability values
• Style-conscious individuals who appreciate unique, natural aesthetics
• Frequent phone upgraders tired of guilt over discarded plastic cases
• Outdoor enthusiasts committed to protecting natural spaces
• Gift givers seeking meaningful presents with positive impact

The Future of Pela: Innovation and Expansion

Pela shows no signs of slowing down. The company continues developing new sustainable products including expanded laptop cases, iPad accessories, and next-generation phone case collections ready for future device releases.

Research and development efforts focus on:

• Increasing biobased content percentages toward 100%
• Reducing production energy requirements further
• Accelerating composting timeframes
• Expanding color and design options
• Developing new sustainable material formulations
• Creating accessories for emerging tech devices

With a valuation near $100 million and backing from high-profile investors including Jay-Z’s Marcy Ventures, Pela has the resources and momentum to continue pioneering sustainable alternatives across the tech accessories industry.

How to Make the Most of Your Pela Case

Care Instructions:

• Clean with mild soap and water—avoid harsh chemicals
• The case will not biodegrade during normal use; it only breaks down in composting conditions
• Natural color variations and speckling are normal and showcase the organic materials
• Case may develop natural patina over time, adding character

When You’re Done:

1. Home compost – Toss in your backyard compost bin and mix regularly
2. Lomi composter – Add to your Lomi device’s approved cycle
3. Industrial facility – Check if your local facility accepts bioplastics
4. Return to Pela – Mail back through Pela 360 program for proper processing

Final Verdict: Is Pela Case Worth It?

In a marketplace flooded with plastic phone cases that contribute to environmental degradation, Pela Case stands as a beacon of innovation and responsibility. The company has successfully proven that consumers don’t have to choose between protecting their devices and protecting the planet.

For consumers who value sustainability, quality, and corporate responsibility, Pela Cases represent an easy and impactful way to reduce plastic consumption without sacrificing phone protection. The company’s commitment to continuous improvement, transparent communication, and environmental giving makes them a leader worth supporting in the sustainable tech accessories movement.