Bioplastic - a sustainable alternative

Bioplastic is plastic that is either bio-based or biodegradable - but it can also be both.

Bio-based plastic

Is plastic that is made from biomass such as sugar beets, sugar canes, corn, grain, wood pulp waste and sea grass. Some types of bioplastics are largely CO2 neutral and do not interfere with the agricultural production of food. In some cases, it can even remove more greenhouse gas than is added.

Different types of plastic can be produced with biomass. If you choose basic plastics such as PE and PP made from biomass, there are great opportunities to protect the climate from extensive CO2 emissions. Due to climate change, one should draw on new resources that reduce the climate burden, if possible.

Although the plastic is wholly or partially bio-based, it is structurally similar to fossil-based plastic and has the same properties. However, bio-based plastic has the advantage that it can reduce the CO2 footprint of a product or item. The bio-based plastic is therefore an alternative to traditional plastic, with the same possibilities of use.

Biodegradable plastic

Can be made from both biomaterials and oil/gas. Biodegradable plastic cannot be recycled together with other plastics, but can instead be broken down by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi and become e.g. water or biomass. There is also talk of biocompostable plastic, where the breakdown typically takes place in industrial composting facilities, as it requires special conditions such as high temperatures, high humidity and the right microorganisms.