Bio-based plastics and recycled plastics in packaging

Bio-based plastics and recycled plastics are gaining ground in both plastic packaging and flexible packaging, where they can be made from a combination of different polymers or combined with other materials—a practice referred to in regulations as “composite packaging.” They serve as a complementary source of supply to virgin fossil-based plastics for packaging manufacturers, offering new functionalities and creating added value for packaged products.

In this discussion, it seems appropriate to focus specifically on post-consumer recycled plastics, as the recycling of production scraps better reflects the processor’s effective management of raw materials and is standard practice for most manufacturers. Furthermore, the recycling of post-consumer plastic waste involves specific challenges related to collection, sorting, and recycling.

The term "bio-based plastic" has been preferred over "bioplastic." This is because "bioplastic" is subject to varying interpretations internationally and generally refers to both bio-based and biodegradable plastics. Bio-based plastics, like any bio-based product, are partially or entirely derived from biomass, in accordance with the EN 16575 standard. Thus, the ability of plastic packaging to biodegrade under certain conditions is considered here as a feature of the packaging, and one for which certain bio-based plastics may be of particular interest.

First, it is necessary to provide an overview of the current plastic packaging market, which is key to understanding the current and future development of recycled and bio-based plastics in packaging. Next, we will examine in greater detail the current market for recycled plastic packaging, as well as the barriers and drivers for the development of these materials. Finally, an analysis using the same model will be conducted on bio-based plastics.