Bioplastics, derived from renewable materials like corn or vegetable oils, offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics made from fossil fuels. One of their significant advantages is their potential to break down more easily, reducing waste and environmental impact. While traditional plastics can persist for centuries, contributing to long-term pollution and posing threats to wildlife and human health, bioplastics can be composted, thereby decreasing waste accumulation.
There are various types of bioplastics, each with unique properties and applications. Polylactic Acid (PLA), for example, is made from plants and is widely used in food packaging, medical devices, and 3D printing. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are known for their biodegradability and are suitable for packaging, medical products, and agricultural films. Other variations, such as Talc-filled Polylactic Acid (tPLA) and Crystallized Polylactic Acid (cPLA), offer enhanced heat resistance and rigidity, making them ideal for hot cup lids and cutlery. Vinylized Polylactic Acid (VNPLA) provides flexibility and impact resistance, suitable for flexible packaging and coatings. Biopolymers like Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and its variants, produced by bacteria, are noted for their biodegradability and mechanical properties, fitting for diverse applications, including disposable items and medical products.
However, the biodegradability of bioplastics varies, and not all break down the same way or under the same conditions. While some bioplastics require the controlled environment of industrial composting facilities, others can decompose in natural settings. Understanding the difference between compostable and biodegradable materials is essential. Compostable materials break down in composting environments, turning into nutrient-rich soil, while biodegradable materials decompose naturally over time. The decomposition rate depends on factors like temperature, humidity, and the presence of microorganisms. Proper disposal is crucial for bioplastics to achieve their environmental benefits, as not all certified compostable products degrade quickly enough to significantly reduce waste.
The decomposition rate of bioplastics is influenced by their type, environmental conditions, and disposal methods. While biodegradable plastics generally break down faster than traditional plastics, factors such as temperature, humidity, and material thickness also play a role. Recycling bioplastics is challenging due to contamination risks, as they can disrupt traditional plastic recycling processes.
Bioplastics offer several upstream benefits, promoting a more sustainable approach. Made from renewable resources like plants, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based plastics. The production process typically consumes less energy, involving lower temperatures and fewer chemical reactions. For example, producing Ingeo, a compostable PLA material, results in significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions and non-renewable energy use than traditional polymers like polystyrene. Bioplastics also help conserve finite resources like petroleum and reduce dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels. They are designed to break down naturally, reducing plastic waste accumulation and preventing pollution. Furthermore, compostable plastics contribute to the circular economy by being composted at the end of their life cycle, reusing raw materials and maximising resource efficiency.
In exploring the potential of bioplastics to mitigate plastic pollution, it is crucial to understand their characteristics, disposal requirements, and environmental impacts. Balancing the advantages and challenges of bioplastics will promote a greener and more responsible approach to plastic usage across various industries.
Biome Technologies plc (LON:BIOM) is a growth oriented, commercially driven technology group. The Group’s primary activity is the development of its fast growing business in bioplastics. The Group comprises two divisions: Biome Bioplastics and Stanelco RF Technologies.
