Materials
Bioplastics are not a single kind of polymer but rather a family of materials that can vary considerably from one another.
There are three groups in the bioplastics family, each with its own individual characteristics:
- Biobased or partly biobased non-biodegradable polymers such as PE, PET and soon PVC and PP (drop-in solutions)
- New polymers that are biobased and biodegradable, including PLA and PHA and
- New polymers that are based on fossil resources and are biodegradable, such as PBAT or PBS.
Biobased feedstocks can be processed both into biodegradable or non-biodegradable plastics. Biodegradability of polymers is directly linked to the chemical structure and not to the origin of the raw materials.
Biobased or partly biobased but not biodegradable polymers (drop-in solutions) today feature identical properties as their conventional versions.
Biodegradable polymers can be composted under specific conditions in industrial composting plants (e.g. controlled temperature, humidity, aeration). In order to be processed this way, these polymers need to be certified as compostable.
Oxo-plastics DO NOT biodegrade
A careful distinction is needed between biodegradable plastics and plastics that are advertised as “oxo-degradable” or “oxo-biodegradable”.
The latter products are made of traditional plastics supplemented with specific additives. They do not fit the definition of a „bioplastic“ as defined by European Bioplastics.
The terms „oxo-degradable“ or ‘oxo-biodegradable’ suggest that the products can undergo biodegradation. This, however, is not the case. Oxo-products mainly fragment and leave small particles that remain in the environment. In contrast the end products of biodegradation are water, carbon and biomass.
European Bioplastics strongly supports the suggestion of the European Union to use the term ‘oxo-fragmentation’ to describe oxo-materials and products.
In terms of degradability, European Bioplastics does solely represent companies that produce truly biodegradable materials and products according to acknowledged standards. For more information see our corresponding publications or go to the chapter oxo-biodegradablity.
