EXAMINING THE SUSTAINABILITY OF BIOPLASTICS: IDENTIFYING

LIMITATIONS AND PATHWAYS FORWARD

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................3
BIOPLASTICS, SCOPE IN THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR (CSR)............................................4
MOVING TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY..................................................................................6
WASTE MANAGEMENT OF BIOPLASTICS.............................................................................7
Recycling.....................................................................................................................................8
Incarination With Energy Consumption......................................................................................8
Landfill........................................................................................................................................9
Biological Waste Treatment......................................................................................................10
OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGE......................................................................................11
Climate Protection.....................................................................................................................12
Life Cycle Economy And Life Cycle Assessment....................................................................12
CONCERNS AND CONSIDERATIONS.....................................................................................13
Concerns....................................................................................................................................13
Consideration.............................................................................................................................15
RECOMMENDATION.................................................................................................................15
CONCLUSION..............................................................................................................................18
 INTRODUCTION

Many different materials are used for packaging including metals, glass, wood, paper or pulp,
plastics or combinations of more than one material as composites. Most of these enter municipal
waste streams at the end of their service life.

Plastic is a material that Earth cannot digest. Every bit of plastic ever produced still exists and
will be here with us for hundreds of years. Once in the environment, plastic breaks down into
smaller and smaller particles that attract toxic chemicals, are ingested by wildlife on land and in
the ocean, and contaminate our food chain. Conventional plastics, which are made from fossil
fuels and contribute to climate change and environmental pollution throughout their lifecycle.

The rapid increase in plastic waste and its detrimental impact on the environment has prompted
us to seek alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics, resulting in the emergence of
bioplastics. The production of conventional plastics resulted in 37.1 billion tons of carbon
emissions from fossil fuels in 2018, making the switch to bioplastics crucial.

Bioplastics is a broad term that includes both bio-based and biodegradable plastics. Bio-based
plastics are derived from plant-based feedstocks or other biomass, such as corn, sugarcane and
algae. Biodegradable refers to the ability of a plastic to break down by micro-organisms into
elements found purely in nature, but does not specify the timeframe. Compostable plastics are a
subset of biodegradable plastics that break down in a composting system within a relatively short
timeframe.

In 2021, bioplastics represented less than 1% of the 367 million tonnes of global plastics
production (not including the production of recycled plastics). 1 However, the bioplastics market
is expected to grow at a rate higher than that of fossil-based plastics in the coming years.
Production capacities are expected to grow from about 2.26 million tonnes in 2021 to about 6.15
million tonnes in 2026.2 Some bioplastics are biodegradable or even compostable, under the right
conditions. 3
1
‘Market’, ‘Market’ (5 September 2023) accessed 5 September 2023; https://www.european-bioplastics.org/market/
2
Institute for Bioplastics and Biocomposites (2022). Available online at https://biopolydat.ifbb-hannover.de/market-
data
3
‘Bioplastics - an Overview | Sciencedirect Topics’, ‘Bioplastics - an Overview | Sciencedirect Topics’ accessed 5
September 2023
The importance of embracing bioplastics contributes to a sustainable future, reducing reliance on
fossil fuels, mitigating conventional plastics’ impact, and promoting circular economy principles.
The paper seeks to examine the limitations of bioplastics, including the requirement for
specialized high-temperature, composting facilities and lack of infrastructure in many cities. The
competition for land with food production is another challenge. These limitations emphasize the
need to consider alternative options and address these issues for a more comprehensive and cost-
efficient approach to sustainable plastics.

BIOPLASTICS, SCOPE IN THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR (CSR)

Biodegradable polymers, often referred to as biodegradable plastics, are polymeric materials that
can break down into carbon dioxide, methane, water, inorganic substances, or biomass. This
breakdown primarily occurs due to the enzymatic activity of microorganisms and can be
assessed through standardized tests within a defined timeframe, reflecting the conditions of
disposal.4

The biodegradable plastics market, holding a substantial market share of more than 52.0% in
2022, is expected to maintain robust growth throughout the forecasted period. Various
biodegradable polymers include polylactic acid, starch blends, PBS, PBAT, PHA,
polycaprolactone, and cellulose acetate. Among these, starch blends emerged as the leading
category of biodegradable products in terms of sales in 2022. These starch-based polymers are
derived from readily available natural resources such as potatoes, wheat, rice, and corn.

At present, the global production of 100% bio-based polymers exceeds 2 million tonnes
annually,5 with biodegradable plastics constituting nearly two-thirds of this total.6

Non-biodegradable plastics encompass a range of materials, including polyethylene,

polypropylene, polyamide, polytrimethylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate,

4
Biodegradable and compostable alternatives to conventional plastics, J. H. Song, R. J. Murphy, R. Narayan and G.
B.H. Davies
5
World Economic Forum, Ellen MacArthur Foundation & McKinsey & Company. The new plastics economy:
rethinking the future of plastics (2016)
6
Hann, S. et al. in Report for European Commission, DG Environment (European Union, 2020)
polyethylene furanoate, and polyvinyl chloride. Interestingly, these polymers can be derived
from eco-friendly sources like sugarcane, corn, castor oil, and others.7

In response to the widespread issue of plastic pollution and its adverse effects, a potent global
anti-waste movement has emerged. This movement implicitly advocates for bioplastics as a
potential alternative to traditional plastics. As part of this trend, many companies and
corporations are increasingly promoting their products as "green," "environmentally friendly,"
"biodegradable," or "100% compostable" as a reflection of their commitment to corporate social
responsibility, which has gained significant popularity as a promotional tool.8

The primary markets for both short- to medium-lived plastics and bioplastics are in food
packaging and fast-moving consumer goods. When introducing a new and potentially more
sustainable material into the supply chain, businesses need to strike a balance between various
sustainability considerations and the familiar material characteristics that are well-known to both
the company and consumers. This involves navigating the challenges of transitioning to more
environmentally friendly options while ensuring the functionality and acceptance of these
materials in the market.

A survey conducted by the World Economic Forum (WEF) revealed that 86% of investors
believe that assets related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors will offer
better long-term investment opportunities. Currently, around $30 trillion is invested in
sustainable assets globally, accounting for one-third of all investments. Among sustainable
investors, the top two concerns are related to plastic pollution and climate change, underlining
the growing importance of addressing these issues in the investment landscape.9

The commitments of prominent organizations and businesses to create and produce more eco-
friendly plastics are expected to drive an increase in the demand for bioplastics. The Alliance to
End Plastic Waste, composed of major chemical companies, brand owners, and sustainability-
focused entities, has dedicated $1.5 billion to sustainable plastic projects. Nestlé's commitment
of up to $2 billion covers the development of 100% bioPET, sustainable plastic technologies, and
7
‘Bioplastics Market Size, Share & Growth Analysis Report, 2030’, ‘Bioplastics Market Size, Share & Growth
Analysis Report, 2030’ (5 September 2030) accessed 5 September 2023
8
Bhagwat, G., Gray, K., Wilson, S.P. et al. Benchmarking Bioplastics: A Natural Step Towards a Sustainable
Future. J Polym Environ 28, 3055–3075 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10924-020-01830-8
9
Choi, A. The business case for investing in sustainable plastics. World Economic Forum
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/01/the-business-case-for-investing-in-sustainable-plastics/ (2020)
food-grade recycled plastics. Peugeot Citroen SA, an automotive manufacturer, has set a target to
source 20% of its polymers from renewable sources. Toyota's agreement to purchase 25% of the
bioPE produced by Braskem's Brazilian plant, even at a premium of 30–50% compared to fossil-
based PE, demonstrates their willingness to invest in environmentally friendly polymers.10

MOVING TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

The utilization of plastic materials in toys, electronics, apparel, healthcare items, and various
everyday objects, including packaging, is an unavoidable aspect of modern life. Synthetic
plastics, which are composed of organic substances that are either naturally occurring or semi-
synthetic, constitute these materials. Since the 1940s, synthetic plastics have had a profound
impact on society due to their remarkable characteristics, including mechanical strength,
lightweight nature, flexibility, and durability. These attributes have been attributed to a material
that is not only cost-effective but also capable of substituting products traditionally made from
other materials like paper, glass, and metals.

In 2015, the production of petroleum-based plastic increased to 300 million tonnes annually.
This surge resulted in the generation of 34 million tonnes of plastic waste each year, with a
staggering 93% of this waste being disposed of in landfills and oceans. Plastic is notoriously
resistant to degradation, and during its decomposition, it releases substantial quantities of CO2
and other harmful substances into the environment. It is estimated that burning 1 kg of plastic
results in the emission of approximately 2.8 kg of CO2. These environmental concerns related to
non-biodegradable plastics have spurred the development of bioplastics as a more sustainable
alternative.

Bioplastic, also known as biodegradable plastic, is derived from renewable natural materials such
as cellulose, starch, and sugar. Microorganisms like bacteria, algae, and fungi in the environment
play a crucial role in breaking down biodegradable plastic. The rate of degradation depends on
factors such as temperature, water content, oxygen availability, and the chemical composition of
the polymer.

10
Chen, J. Global Markets and Technologies for Bioplastics. BCC Research Report Code: PLS050E 1–231 (BCC
Research, 2019)
One notable advantage of bioplastic is its very low carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions during the
degradation process, underscoring its environmental benefits. In fact, in 2014, the global
production of biodegradable plastic reached 1.7 million tonnes, and it is projected to increase to
6.2 million tonnes by 2018. This growth reflects the growing interest and demand for more
sustainable alternatives in plastic production.

Biodegradable polymers are unquestionably environmentally friendly; however, they do come

with notable drawbacks, including elevated manufacturing expenses and relatively weak
mechanical properties. The increased demand for alternative methods of bioplastic production
has been prompted by the decrease in the availability of petroleum and diesel due to rising
prices. Government authorities have implemented various regulations aimed at reducing the use
of non-biodegradable plastics in recent years. Additionally, numerous scientific communities
have been actively involved in the development of biodegradable polymers, which include
materials such as polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, starch-based bioplastics, and many
others.

WASTE MANAGEMENT OF BIOPLASTICS

According to a 2021 study by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the problem of plastic
pollution is expected to increase fourfold by the year 2030, presenting a grave challenge to
global efforts to manage plastic waste effectively. To tackle this growing issue, one practical
approach could involve adopting biobased plastics as a biodegradable alternative to traditional
petroleum-based plastics. This shift has the potential to yield substantial reductions in carbon
emissions and energy consumption compared to the use of conventional plastics.

Several technologies are at our disposal for managing conventional plastic packaging waste from
households. These include integrated collection and incineration with energy recovery, the
targeted combustion of plastics with high calorific values, utilizing them as reducing agents in
blast furnaces, or employing them as feedstock for recycling processes. In the UK, it's estimated
that non-bottle household mixed plastic packaging waste will reach 1 million tonnes per year and
is expected to increase annually by a range of 2% to 5% according to reports from WRAP
(Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production) in 2006 and 2008.11 The "Waste Hierarchy"
11
‘Certification Explained’, ‘Certification Explained’ (5 September 2023) accessed 5 September 2023
outlined by the UK government (DEFRA 2007)12 suggests that the most effective approaches for
reducing material consumption and diverting materials away from waste streams are reduction
and reuse. These strategies are considered highly advantageous in minimizing the environmental
impact of waste.

In the context of biodegradable bioplastics, it's important to analyze their effects when disposed
of through various methods, including recycling, incineration, and landfill. A particular focus
will be placed on composting biopolymers because biodegradable polymers (BDPs) offer the
potential for waste treatment through composting, a technique that can recover resources and
produce valuable compost as an end product. This approach aligns with the waste hierarchy's
emphasis on reduction and reuse, as it allows for the sustainable management of biodegradable
plastics, reducing their impact on the environment.

Recycling

The introduction of biodegradable plastics into municipal waste streams can pose challenges for
existing plastic recycling systems. For example, incorporating starch or natural fibers into
traditional polymers can complicate the recycling process. While certain bioplastic polymers,
like PLA, can undergo mechanical recycling multiple times without a substantial loss of
properties, the current limitation lies in the inconsistent and insufficient supply of bioplastic
polymer waste in large quantities. This makes recycling less economically viable for bioplastics
compared to conventional plastics.

Many common plastics have gross calorific values (GCV) that are comparable to or even higher
than coal. Therefore, once all recyclable materials have been separated, incineration with energy
recovery can be a sensible choice. Using petrochemical carbon, which has already served a
valuable purpose, as a fuel in incineration is considered to be a more environmentally friendly
option than directly burning oil. This notion that energy recovery can be a viable waste
management solution for certain types of household plastic waste is supported by various reports
by various organizations.

12
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/243280/7103.pdf
Incarination With Energy Consumption

The majority of common plastics have gross calorific values (GCV) comparable to or even
higher than coal. Consequently, once all recyclable materials have been separated, incineration
with energy recovery becomes a sensible option. Using petrochemical carbon, which has already
served a useful purpose, is considered a more environmentally friendly choice than directly
burning oil when employed as a fuel in incineration. The notion that energy recovery is a viable
waste management solution for certain types of household plastic waste has received support
from reports by the Environment Committees. Trials and further research likely provide valuable
insights into this approach. One such test conducted by the British Plastics Federation (BPF)
demonstrated that modern waste-to-energy plants had the capability to incinerate plastic waste,
including chlorinated compounds like PVC, without emitting toxic or potentially dangerous
dioxin and furan emissions, as reported in 1993 by the BPF.13

Resistance to incineration is expected to persist unless the public is convinced of its safety and its
role in promoting renewable energy sources, public perception and education on these matters
are crucial factors in shaping waste management policies and practices.

All bioplastic polymers are considered suitable candidates for energy recovery through
incineration, and the use of renewable (bio) resources in bioplastic products is believed to
contribute to renewable energy generation when incinerated.14 Natural cellulose fiber and starch,
similar to wood, have a considerably lower gross calorific value (GCV) than coal, but they still
offer significant utility for incineration. Furthermore, the initial energy requirements for the
production of fiber and starch components are substantially lower, which contributes to a more
favorable overall energy balance throughout their life cycle.

Determining the precise value of bioplastic polymers for energy recovery through incineration is
presently challenging due to a lack of comprehensive scientific data, including factors such as
gross calorific value (GCV) and the relative influence of moisture content (MC). To gain a better
understanding of the energy recovery potential of bioplastic polymers, further research and
investigation in this field are necessary. This would involve conducting thorough studies to

13
‘Business Conditions Survey’, ‘Business Conditions Survey’ accessed 5 September 2023
14
‘The Determinants of the Growth of the European Bioplastics Sector—a Fuzzy Cognitive Maps Approach’, ‘The
Determinants of the Growth of the European Bioplastics Sector—a Fuzzy Cognitive Maps Approach’ (5 September
2022)
collect the necessary data and assess the various factors that influence the energy content of
bioplastics, including their moisture content. Such research would contribute to a more accurate
and informed evaluation of the suitability of bioplastic polymers for incineration and energy
recovery.

Landfill

Landfilling waste plastics is considered the least preferred option in the waste hierarchy of the
UK. Historically, it was an attractive option due to its simplicity and low cost, as it did not
require extensive separation, cleaning, or treatment processes. In 1999, Western Europe disposed
of 8.4 million tonnes of recoverable plastics from household waste in landfills, accounting for
65% of the total disposal, as reported by APME in 2002.

However, concerns have arisen over the amount of toxic compounds present in landfilled
municipal waste and the potential for these substances to seep out of landfill sites. This has
raised public concerns about the environmental and health impacts of disposal, especially given
the dwindling availability of acceptable landfill sites across the country. These factors have
contributed to a shift in focus towards more sustainable waste management practices.

One of the significant concerns associated with landfill disposal, especially for biodegradable
materials like bioplastic polymers, garden waste, and kitchen waste, is the generation of
methane. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential 25 times that of
carbon dioxide (CO2). It forms in anaerobic (low-oxygen) conditions, making it a considerable
environmental concern when biodegradable materials are disposed of in landfills. This
underscores the importance of reducing landfilling and finding more sustainable waste
management alternatives to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the methane gas
generated in landfills, often referred to as "landfill gas," can be and is utilized as an energy
source, contributing to the sustainable management of waste and the generation of renewable
energy.

Biological Waste Treatment

Compared to traditional petrochemical-based polymers, biodegradable and compostable

bioplastic polymers offer a more environmentally friendly disposal option. These bioplastics can
undergo composting using aerobic waste management techniques, which involve the use of
oxygen. This process results in the production of nutrient- and carbon-rich compost, which can
be used to enhance soil quality.

Aerobic biodegradation mechanisms play a vital role in the breakdown of biodegradable

polymers, and these processes are discussed in more detail in subsequent sections. Additionally,
some biodegradable polymers are suitable for anaerobic digesters, which can convert biowaste
into methane. This methane can be used to generate electricity, providing a renewable energy
source. Anaerobic digestion can be employed at elevated temperatures for various polymers,
including thermoplastic starch, polycaprolactones, PHAs, and PLA.15

Overall, biodegradable bioplastics offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option
for waste disposal compared to traditional plastics, and their potential for composting and energy
recovery contributes to a more circular and eco-conscious approach to managing plastic waste.

The limited availability of published studies on the anaerobic digestibility of biodegradable

bioplastics means that these systems are not explored in depth here.

OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGE

Government decisions are shaped by a multitude of factors, encompassing the media, public
sentiment, party agendas, crises, lobbying efforts, cultural influences, timing, scientific input,
and more. Nonetheless, it is worthwhile to consider the insights of Ibsen (1883). Ibsen's
insightful play serves as a critique of democracy and portrays the resilience of a formidable
individual who perseveres in the face of formidable challenges. It prompts us to ponder the
existence of "government of the people, by the people, for the people." One of its two central
themes revolves around how leaders can sway the masses, leading to questions such as: Are the
choices made by leaders genuinely in the best interests of the broader population, or do they
primarily benefit a select few who work to persuade others otherwise?

Is society potentially deceived by opting for a course of action that benefits a privileged minority
while being detrimental to the majority's interests? Political leaders wield influence over the
media, influencing public perception. Does this grant them unrestricted power? When a
15
Burgstaller, M. et al. Gutachten zur Behandlung biologisch abbaubarer Kunststoffe. TEXTE 57/2018 of the
Umwelt Bundesamt (German Federal Environmental Office). Umwelt Bundesamt
https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/publikationen/gutachten-zur-behandlung-biologisch-abbaubarer (2018)
collective decision is made, was it a voluntary choice or the result of manipulation? These are
highly pertinent concepts in contemporary society.

Biobased plastics have a significant advantage over traditional plastics in that they have the
potential to be carbon neutral or reduce dependence on finite fossil resources. Consequently,
biobased plastics can contribute to the European Union's efforts to achieve its 2020 objectives for
greenhouse gas emission reduction. Furthermore, through the implementation of closed resource
loops and cascading utilization, bioplastics can greatly enhance resource efficiency. This is
especially the case when biobased materials and products are subsequently reused or recycled for
the purpose of energy recovery, thus supporting the generation of renewable energy.

Climate Protection

The utilization of fossil fuels in industrial processes contributes to the elevated atmospheric
concentration of CO2, resulting in an increase in average temperatures and the well-known
greenhouse effect. This phenomenon is linked to a rise in the occurrence of thunderstorms,
floods, and periods of drought. Global environmental policy places significant importance on
climate protection and the reduction of CO2 emissions due to the potentially severe
consequences of climate change. Governments and various organizations employ targeted
strategies to address and mitigate this critical issue.

Many nations has also recognized the substantial importance of bioplastics within its Lead
Markets Initiative, primarily due to their lower carbon footprint. To make significant progress
toward these objectives, there is a growing emphasis on increasing the use of renewable
resources and expanding the proportion of biobased products in various sectors.

Depending on factors such as the choice of feedstock, the specific product, and its intended
application, life cycle assessments consistently demonstrate that biobased plastics can result in
substantial CO2 savings, potentially even reaching carbon neutrality, when compared to
conventional plastics.

Life Cycle Economy & Life Cycle Assessment

The underlying principle behind the vision of promoting sustainable development is that if
products cannot be entirely eliminated, they should be produced, utilized, and reclaimed in a
manner that conserves resources.
The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a crucial tool for assessing the environmental footprint of
products or services. LCA enables the comprehensive evaluation of all environmental impacts
associated with a product or service, covering every stage of its life cycle, from resource
extraction to final disposal. With LCA, it becomes possible to quantify and report on current
environmental impacts, explore alternative scenarios, and assess the effectiveness of
improvements made.

Bioplastics actively promotes the use of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Thinking
(LCT) to advance, quantify, and provide evidence of the environmental sustainability of
products. As previously emphasized, it is vital to take into account the entire life cycle of a
product, as different stages can have significantly varying environmental impacts. Life Cycle
Thinking involves a holistic examination of complete systems and prevents the shifting of
responsibility from one life cycle stage to another, from one location to another, or from one
environmental medium to another. This comprehensive approach ensures a more accurate
assessment of environmental effects and encourages responsible product development and
management.

Challenges of LCA

It's important to clarify that there is no single, all-encompassing Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
that can be applied to all bioplastics or all products in general. LCAs are specific to individual
products or services and cannot be generalized across all bioplastics or products. The specific
type of bioplastics used, the raw materials employed, the production and conversion processes,
transportation methods, and the available recovery and recycling systems can all significantly
influence the parameters of an LCA. While LCA is currently the most effective method for
assessing the environmental impact of biobased products, comparing two LCAs in a reliable and
supported manner can be challenging due to these variations and complexities.

Incorporating the yet-to-be-realized potential of emerging and relatively "young" products like
bioplastics poses a challenge for Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). LCAs typically do not account
for the future potential that these materials and products may have as they continue to evolve and
mature. Therefore, it becomes essential to make estimations of potential improvements and then
integrate these estimates into the LCA process. This allows for a more comprehensive and
forward-looking assessment of the environmental impact of such products, considering both their
current state and their anticipated advancements.

CONCERNS AND CONSIDERATIONS

CONCERNS
Although the biodegradability of bioplastics is an advantage, only a limited number of
municipalities possess the necessary infrastructure to effectively process them. Most bioplastics
require high-temperature industrial composting facilities for proper degradation. Consequently,
bioplastics often find their way into landfills, where they may release methane, a greenhouse gas
that is 23 times more potent than carbon dioxide, especially when they are deprived of oxygen.

Improper disposal of bioplastics can lead to contamination in batches of recycled plastic and
result in damage to recycling infrastructure. For example, if recycled PET (polyethylene
terephthalate), the most common plastic used for water and soda bottles, becomes contaminated
with bioplastic, the entire batch may be rejected and ultimately sent to a landfill. Consequently,
the management of bioplastics necessitates the establishment of separate recycling streams to
ensure their proper disposal and prevent adverse impacts on recycling processes.

While biodegradable plastics may break down more rapidly than traditional plastics, it's
important to recognize that they might still take years or even decades to fully degrade. During
this time, there remains a risk that they could adversely affect ecosystems and contribute to
environmental damage. Proper disposal and management of bioplastics are crucial to minimize
their potential negative impacts.

Bioplastics that are compostable or recyclable have the potential to contribute to a circular
economy, but there are challenges associated with their collection and processing.
Compostability provides limited advantages if bioplastics are not disposed of within a dedicated
composting system, as they may release methane, a greenhouse gas, when decomposing in other
environments. Additionally, they can decompose slowly and potentially contaminate compost or
recycling streams.

The production of bioplastics relies on crops that can also serve as food sources for people,
creating competition for land. By 2019, the Plastic Pollution Coalition estimated that over 3.4
million acres of land, equivalent to an area larger than Belgium, the Netherlands, and Denmark
combined, would be required to cultivate crops to meet the growing global demand for
bioplastics. Additionally, the use of petroleum-powered farm equipment for crop cultivation
contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.

The labor-intensive process involved in converting crops like corn or sugarcane into the raw
materials for PLA (polylactic acid) makes bioplastics relatively expensive. PLA, for example,
can cost 20 to 50 percent more than equivalent traditional materials. However, costs are
gradually decreasing as businesses and researchers develop more efficient and environmentally
responsible methods for bioplastic production.

There is a common misconception where some people label items as biodegradable when they
are not truly compostable. This is a concern because the term "biodegradable" does not specify
the duration it takes for a product to decompose, potentially misleading consumers into thinking
that the product will break down quickly when, in reality, it may persist in a landfill or the
environment for many years.

CONSIDERATION
In a 2013 study conducted by the Association for Enterprise Opportunity, involving 1,300 small
businesses in the United States, it was found that 75% of respondents reported growth in green
business practices between 2008 and 2011, even though these practices cost 19% more than their
conventional counterparts. Furthermore, 79% of these companies stated that utilizing green
products and services provided them with a competitive advantage within their respective
markets.

Bio-based plastics, despite their higher land and water usage during production, can potentially
have a reduced overall environmental footprint compared to conventional plastics. However, it's
important to note that the choice of feedstock and the region in which it is cultivated can
influence the impact on food security and biodiversity. Therefore, ensuring that the sourcing of
bioplastic feedstocks aligns with sustainability goals requires careful assessment, ethical
considerations, and responsible decision-making. Balancing the environmental benefits of
bioplastics with their potential social and ecological consequences is a complex task that
necessitates thoughtful evaluation and responsible practices.
 RECOMMENDATION

For compostable plastics to degrade as intended, they need to be processed in industrial or

domestic composting systems. When composting facilities accept compostable plastics and
integrate them into their waste processing operations, they can help enhance the collection and
recovery of food waste and food-contaminated packaging. In such cases, compostable plastics
have the potential to deliver a positive environmental impact by contributing to more efficient
and sustainable waste management practices.

Certain products available on the market pose challenges as they lack composting or recycling
options, necessitating their disposal in landfills. To ensure sustainable outcomes in the use of
bioplastics, several key practices and strategies are crucial:

1. Responsible Sourcing: Sourcing feedstocks for bioplastics from sustainable and

renewable sources is essential to minimize the environmental impact of their production.
2. Application Suitability: Identifying and selecting applications that are well-suited for
bioplastics based on their properties and environmental benefits is important.
3. Proper End-of-Life Management: Establishing effective end-of-life management
processes, such as composting or recycling, for bioplastics is essential to reduce waste
and environmental impact.
4. Avoiding Problematic Products: Avoiding the sale of bioplastic products that lack viable
pathways for composting or recycling at the end of their useful life helps prevent
environmental harm.
5. Improved Labeling: Clear and accurate labeling of bioplastic products can help
consumers and businesses make informed choices and reduce confusion.
6. Combating Greenwashing: Taking steps to reduce deceptive claims and "greenwashing"
practices in the marketing of bioplastics promotes transparency and trust.
7. Awareness Building: Raising awareness among consumers and businesses about the
benefits and proper disposal of bioplastics can encourage responsible usage.
8. Harmonization of Services: Increasing the harmonization of organics recycling services
can streamline the collection and processing of bioplastics, making their end-of-life
management more efficient and effective.
Additionally, there is a need for more in-depth research to assess the sustainability of bioplastics
when compared to alternative plastic substitutes. Any increase in the adoption of bioplastics
should be considered within the broader context of comprehensive systemic changes, including
initiatives aimed at reducing the consumption of single-use plastics. This holistic approach is
essential for enhancing the overall environmental impact of plastic materials.

To fully realize the benefits of bioplastics and minimize any potential harm, it is essential to
ensure proper end-of-life management. This includes appropriate disposal methods and systems
that allow for the effective recycling or composting of bioplastics, thereby reducing their
environmental impact and supporting a sustainable circular economy.

A minuscule fraction of companies provided consumers with straightforward instructions on how

to properly dispose of their products, while the remaining half made claims that could confuse or
mislead consumers regarding the appropriate disposal of these products at the end of their useful
lives.

In California, Full Cycle Bioplastics produces PHA using organic waste, such as food scraps,
inedible plant parts like stalks and leaves, garden waste, and unrecycled paper or cardboard. This
bioplastic is compostable, capable of degrading in marine environments (potentially serving as a
source of food for fish or bacteria if it enters the ocean), and non-harmful to the environment. It
finds application in the manufacturing of bags, containers, flatware, water bottles, and shampoo
bottles. Full Cycle can process PHA at the end of its useful life and recycle it into new virgin
plastic.

Renmatix, a company based in Pennsylvania, opts for alternative sources such as woody
biomass, energy grasses, and crop residues rather than more costly food crops. Renmatix
employs a technology that utilizes heat and water to extract sugars from biomass in an efficient,
straightforward, and cost-effective manner, as opposed to relying on acids, solvents, or enzymes.
These extracted sugars and lignin from biomass serve as the foundational components for
producing bioplastics and other bioproducts.

Researchers at the University of Bath in England have developed a process to produce

polycarbonate using sugars and carbon dioxide. This innovative approach is intended for
applications such as bottles, lenses, phone coatings, and DVDs. Unlike conventional
polycarbonate production, which involves the use of BPA (not permitted in infant bottles) and
the hazardous substance phosgene, the Bath researchers have devised a less expensive and safer
method. They achieve this by combining carbon dioxide with sugars at room temperature.
Importantly, the resulting bioplastic can be broken down by soil microorganisms into carbon
dioxide and sugar, offering an environmentally friendly disposal option.16

So, many countries are trying on different ways to address their issue, which is actually an
universal issue, the consequence of whose the world needs to face. So, such measures could be
adopted in the country as well.

CONCLUSION

Sustainability is highly dependent on how a material is made, where it is used and how it can be
recycled, and less so on the building blocks of a material. Nevertheless, with technological
advances, bioplastics have the potential to move several plastic-intensive industries towards a
circular economy. Bio-based replacements are available for almost every fossil-based
application; however, these are mostly in small and costly quantities, and do not always have
substantial environmental benefits.

Right now, it’s hard to claim that bioplastics are more environmentally friendly than traditional
plastics when all aspects of their life cycle are considered: land use, pesticides and herbicides,
energy consumption, water use, greenhouse gas and methane emissions, biodegradability,
recyclability and more. But as researchers around the world work to develop greener varieties
and more efficient production processes, bioplastics do hold promise to help lessen plastic
pollution and reduce our carbon footprint.

Implementing effective biological treatments for the developing range of biodegradable

bioplastics requires the support of clear certification and labelling schemes. Biodegradable
plastics that pass the relevant compostability standards will biodegrade well in indus- trial
composting system.

16
‘The Truth About Bioplastics’, ‘The Truth About Bioplastics’ (13 December 2017) accessed 5 September 2023