Bioplastics

Bioplastics represent a large, diverse family of products with different properties. According to European Bioplastics, a plastic is considered a bioplastic if it is either bio-based, biodegradable, or features both properties. The three main groups of bioplastics are:

• Bio-based or partially bio-based, non-biodegradable plastics such as bio-based polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
• Plastics that are both bio-based and biodegradable, including polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polylactic acid (PLA), and cellulose acetate.
• Plastics that are fossil-based but biodegradable, such as polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT).

Bioplastics are gaining traction as the plastics industry adapts to growing environmental concerns, regulatory pressures and consumer demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. Suppliers are expanding their portfolios of bio-based and biodegradable polymers, but challenges remain in areas like scalability, consistent performance, cost competitiveness and end-of-life infrastructure, such as composting facilities.

For M. Holland, bioplastics represent a strategic opportunity to help clients advance their sustainability goals. These materials are particularly relevant in industries facing strong demand for eco-friendly solutions, including packaging and consumer goods. By offering technical expertise and a broad product portfolio, M. Holland supports customers in evaluating bioplastic options, balancing environmental benefits with practical performance requirements.