Breaking down the truth behind biodegradability
02 June 2023
According to Report Insights, the biodegradable plastics market was worth $7.65 billion in 2022 and is projected to exceed $22.12 billion by 2030. While the appetite for plastics made from natural feedstocks is increasing, what can we expect for the future of bioplastic research?
Here, Dr Ashlee Jahnke, Head of Research and Development at Teysha Technologies, discusses common problems with bioplastics and how recent innovations in biodegradability will shape our future.
Many commercial developments show promising results and improvements in the technologies used to produce bio-based materials. For example, ABB has set out to automate NatureWorks’ bioplastics plant in Thailand, which could improve production throughput and help accelerate consumer uptake in bioplastics.
What’s more, continued research has led to new and innovative products, such as the Röchling Group’s latest sustainable bioplastics, Röchling-BioBoom and Röchling-ReLoop, which are manufactured using renewable raw materials like cellulose.
While this is certainly commendable progress that is expected to strengthen the sustainability of recycled materials and bioplastics, questions remain over just how sustainable some bioplastics truly are.
Read the full article in DPA's June issue
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