What are Bioplastic Products?
Bioplastics are derived from organic materials such as sugars, algae and corn. Because they are bio-sourced, these materials mean that industries don’t have to draw on natural resources and encourage the circular economy.
Bioplastics can also be compostable or biodegradable, or even both: ideal for limiting pollution. Their ecological impact is reduced through efficient production, use and degradation, known as product life cycle analysis.
The rise of bioplastic products is a response to the challenges posed by plastic waste management and the need to reduce the carbon footprint of materials. It’s a win-win situation for both the planet and its inhabitants!
Bioplastic Products: What are The Different Types?
Each has its own specific characteristics and uses. Let’s take a look at the technical aspects and applications of these bioplastics.
PLA (polylactic acid)
PLA is a bioplastic produced by fermenting plant matter such as maize. Although biodegradable under certain conditions, it does not degrade naturally in the environment. In fact, everything depends on the type of composting! For PLA, specific industrial facilities are required for complete decomposition. Finally, in terms of applications, PLA is mainly used for :
- food packaging
- 3D printing
- disposable utensils
PHA (polyhydroxyalcanoates)
What is PHA? PHAs are polymers produced by microorganisms. They decompose naturally in a variety of environments, both terrestrial and marine. These bioplastics are particularly well suited to applications requiring total biodegradability. They are used to produce :
- organic packaging
- medical products
- agriculture
- horticulture
Partially Biobased Bioplastics (biobased PE)
Some bioplastics, partially biosourced like PE, are derived from sugar cane. They offer an alternative to conventional plastics without changing existing recycling methods. These materials have properties similar to those of traditional plastics. However, they are not biodegradable and must be recycled in the conventional way.
How do Bioplastic Products Meet Environmental Challenges?
Although they offer a range of environmental benefits, the impact of bioplastics varies according to their origin and use.
Reducing Carbon Footprint Through Bioplastics
One of the main advantages of bioplastics is the reduction in EGS. PHA emits less carbon (1.5 to 3 kg of CO2 per kilogram). This is because the raw materials used in their production, such as plants, absorb the gas as they grow. This absorption partially offsets the emissions linked to the production and transport of bioplastics.
Less Waste And Recycling
Some bioplastics, such as PHA, are biodegradable and compostable under any conditions. This means a number of benefits: less persistent waste in ecosystems, enriched soils and no sorting. From an ecological and economic point of view, bioplastic products make our lives easier…
Standards and Certification for Bioplastics Products
To guarantee their sustainability, standards and certifications govern the production and use of bioplastic products.
Biodegradability and Compostability Standards
- European standards EN 13432 and EN 14995: these define the compostability criteria for bioplastics. These ensure that these materials degrade under certain conditions in industrial composting facilities.
- ASTM standards (American Society for Testing and Materials): these also establish criteria for the biodegradability of materials in a natural environment. These certifications enable manufacturers to check the compatibility of bioplastic products with existing infrastructures.
Sustainability Labels
- The “OK Compost” (or “Biobased”) label: certifies that bioplastics meet strict compostability or biosourcing criteria. They are a guarantee of quality for both consumers and manufacturers.
- Cradle to Cradle certifications: environmental standard focusing on eco-design and the circular economy. End of product life
Environmental Framework: the Future of Bioplastics
Bioplastic products have a promising future in a circular and sustainable economy. Governments and industry are looking for more environmentally-friendly solutions: PHA is (for example) one of them. These bioplastics help to reduce both our dependence on petrochemical plastics and our ecological footprint. Two birds with one stone.
Why Work With PHA Sourcing?
PHA Sourcing specialises in the supply of high-quality bioplastics, mainly PHA. Our expertise in biodegradable materials enables us to support manufacturers as they move towards a sustainable transition.
By working with PHA Sourcing, you gain access to innovative solutions that are tailored to your needs and comply with environmental standards. Together, let’s build a more respectful future. Our teams are always ready to listen: contact them!
Bioplastics products represent the technological breakthrough for an environmentally-friendly plastics industry. Manufacturers can take responsibility by adopting responsible materials and establishing strategic partnerships with specialist suppliers such as PHA Sourcing. PHA Sourcing offers a future where the environmental impact of plastics is finally under control. Ready to make the switch to recovered waste?
