The global industry has the capacity to produce over 350 million tonnes of plastic every year. A plastic-based product may be used for 10 to 15 years, it takes approximately 500 years for plastic to fully decompose in the environment. That’s why there has been growing interest in sustainable alternatives.
For many years, the global industry has been blamed for environmental changes due to the mismanagement of plastic production and the waste it generates.
This is because 99% of the world’s plastic is made from chemicals derived from fossil fuels. It is also believed that by 2040, plastic will become the largest consumer of oil, surpassing the power generation and automobile industries, highlighting the strong dependence between the two.
Biodegradable packaging alternatives are one option that has started to gain a lot of traction recently, it’s not just for eco-fanatics. It’s already making a big difference in how certain products are packaged.
Making it one of the easiest ways to make a positive impact. Let’s talk about why it’s a game-changer for the industry and how it can make your life easier, too.
What is biodegradable packaging?
Biodegradable material breaks down naturally over time into smaller pieces through the action of microorganisms. This offers a simple way for individuals and businesses to reduce their carbon footprint without changing their habits.
Biodegradability vs. sustainability
Remember that not everything that breaks down is biodegradable. Plastic also breaks down but can take anywhere from 20 to 500 years. That’s why, when you see “biodegradable” on packaging, it’s easy to assume it’s good for the environment.
Still, you must note that not all biodegradable materials are alike. Some break down quickly, while others can take years and may leave harmful residues behind. Many people think biodegradable means sustainable, but that’s not always true.
A sustainable material is defined as one that aligns with a philosophy focused on minimizing environmental impact throughout the product’s lifecycle. From sourcing raw materials responsibly and reducing energy consumption during production to minimizing waste at the end of its life.
Composite packaging
When searching for sustainable solutions, compostable options truly stand out. They generalized standards, like breaking down into natural elements within a set timeframe and under certain conditions.
This means they don’t just eventually decompose; they actively contribute to the environment clearly and measurably.
Types of biodegradable packaging materials
Eco-friendly packaging has become a necessity, and biodegradable options offer a smart way to reduce waste as they naturally break down over time. Let’s explore some of the best biodegradable packaging materials and why they’re important for achieving eco-friendly goals.
Hemp
We’re already aware of the negative impacts of traditional plastics, and this is where bioplastics emerge as an eco-friendly alternative. Among these, hemp is one of the most popular options. It’s made from hemp fibers, which have a high concentration of cellulose.
Another advantage is that hemp-based bioplastics can be processed using existing production methods, making them a cost-effective option for large-scale plastic producers and consumers.
Paper/ Pulp
Paper is least known biodegradable product in the market. This is because plant-based materials are usually biodegradable, as they contain organic compounds that can be broken apart by microorganisms like fungi and bacteria.
A biodegradable one depends upon the chemical composition it is made from, which are generally natural fibers such as wood pulp or cotton. But there is also a chance that it is coated with materials that resist degradation which can reduce its biodegradability and recyclability factor.
Cellulose
Cellulose is basically an organic carbohydrate polymer, which is also the fundamental building block of cellulose and is also easily available in nature. Being so common there are a lot of microorganisms that consume it for their nutrition.
After use, cellulose film (also known as Cellophane) is biodegraded into harmless compost, CO2, and water. These compounds are then absorbed by plants and, with the help of sunlight, converted into energy through photosynthesis, leading to increased tree growth.
Seaweed
Seaweed polysaccharides have gained a lot of interest lately due to their eco-friendliness, safety, antioxidant benefits, and strong ability to form films. But for packaging, they do come with some downsides, like being weak, dissolving in water, and having only mild antimicrobial effects.
By adding biopolymers, nanoparticles, or natural active ingredients, these drawbacks can be improved.
Polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT)
Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate is a type of thermoplastic polymer that is made from renewable resources like sugarcane and corn starch to be an eco-friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics.
It can be processed using conventional techniques and practices while integrating it with other biodegradable polymers to further improvise its properties.
Palm leaves
Using fallen palm leaves as a resource for packaging is an innovative approach. The leaves are collected, thoroughly cleaned, and molded into the desired shapes and formats.
This process incorporates the concept of upcycling, where waste material is transformed into a higher-quality product while remaining biodegradable.
Bagasse
Bagasse is the fibrous residue left after extracting juice from sugarcane during the sugar production process. It is composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, making it a biodegradable material.
It features a chemical structure that allows it to be molded into various forms, offering an alternative to traditional food containers, which currently rely on toxic materials like plastic or styrofoam.
Wool
Wool is a natural, renewable fiber used as an insulation material in the packaging industry, primarily to preserve temperature-sensitive goods during transit.
It is made of keratin, and microorganisms like bacteria and fungi break it down into its basic components when disposed of in soil. This decomposition process is relatively quick for wool compared to synthetic materials, typically taking a few months to a few years.
Pulp thermoforming
Pulp thermoforming is a manufacturing process that shapes pulp-based materials, typically made from recycled paper or plant fibers, into specific forms using heat and pressure.
It’s a sustainable alternative to plastic or foam packaging, as it utilizes renewable resources, and the resulting products, such as trays, containers, and packaging inserts, are both biodegradable and recyclable.
Mushroom mycelium
Mushroom mycelium is the root-like structure of fungi, composed of a network of fine, thread-like cells called hyphae. It is the vegetative part of the fungus that grows underground or within the organic material it consumes, such as wood or soil.
It naturally degrades and can be easily molded into various shapes. What sets it apart is its shock-absorbing ability, which provides excellent protection for fragile items, especially during transit.
Chitosan
Chitosan is a natural biopolymer derived from chitin, found in the waste of seafood, specifically in the exoskeletons of crustaceans like shrimp, crabs, and lobsters.
It has a wide range of biodegradable applications due to its biocompatibility and non-toxic nature. In packaging, it is often used for food wraps, films, and coatings, helping to preserve food by inhibiting microbial growth.
Starch-based bioplastics
Starch-based bioplastics are biodegradable materials derived from starch, a natural polymer found in plants like corn, potatoes, and wheat.
These bioplastics are created by processing starch into a thermoplastic, known as thermoplastic starch (TPS), which can be molded into various shapes and used for packaging and disposable cutlery. They are capable of both rigid and flexible packaging.
Why is biodegradable packaging important for the food industry?
The food industry generates millions of tons of plastic waste every year, much of which ends up in oceans or landfills. Biodegradable packaging helps solve this issue by breaking down naturally and contributing to a circular economy where waste becomes a resource instead of pollution.
Major brands and food chains are adopting eco-friendly packaging to meet sustainability goals and comply with regulations that limit single-use plastics. The transition to biodegradable packaging offers numerous benefits for food businesses, consumers, and the environment.
Contribution to a circular economy
Biodegradable packaging promotes a circular economy by reducing reliance on finite resources. Many sustainable materials can be composted, recycled, or reused, minimising waste generation.
Now, imagine a society where that same package doesn’t end up as waste. Instead, it’s transformed into compost, nourishing the soil and helping grow the food we eat.
Health and safety
Some biodegradable packaging materials, like beeswax wraps and plant-based films, help keep food fresh and safe. Unlike regular plastic, which may have harmful chemicals like BPA, biodegradable packaging is usually free from toxic substances.
Additionally, some biodegradable options allow better airflow, which helps prevent moisture buildup and keeps food from spoiling too quickly.
Brand image and consumer trust
More customers now prefer brands that care about the environment. Using biodegradable packaging helps businesses stand out from competitors and attract eco-conscious buyers.
It also improves a company’s reputation and builds customer trust. As more governments and organizations support sustainability, food businesses that switch to biodegradable packaging can stay ahead in the market.
Examples of products made from biodegradable materials
| Product | Biodegradable Materials | Industry | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bags | Cornstarch, PLA, plant-based fibers | Retail, E-commerce, Waste Management | Shopping bags, garbage bags, pet waste bags |
| Plates | Sugarcane bagasse, bamboo, palm leaves | Food & Beverage, Hospitality | Disposable tableware for food service |
| Jars | Bioplastic (PLA), bamboo, paper-based materials | Cosmetics & Personal Care, Candle Packaging | Packaging for creams, balms, and powders |
| Trays | Wheat straw fiber, cornstarch-based, recycled paper pulp | Food Packaging, Agriculture | Food trays, egg cartons, fruit and vegetable trays |
| Tableware & Catering Items | Cornstarch cutlery, bamboo utensils, paper straws | Food & Beverage | Eco-friendly forks, knives, cups, and plates |
| Bottles | PLA, paper-based, algae-based materials | Food & Beverage, Healthcare | Water bottles, beverage packaging |
| Spoons | Edible (rice, wheat), wooden, PLA cornstarch | Food & Beverage, Hospitality | Single-use and compostable cutlery |
| Tutors & Clips for Agriculture | Natural fibers, biodegradable plastics, paper-based ties | Agriculture, Farming | Plant supports, biodegradable mulch films, plant clips |
Modernization of biodegradable packaging technology
The smart packaging market is projected to reach a staggering $38.66 billion by 2030, which encourages businesses and consumers to seek eco-friendly packaging options to maintain a greener supply chain. Here are some innovations in the industry that support biodegradable packaging.
Active packaging
Active Packaging refers to packaging technologies that interact with the contents or environment to extend shelf life and improve safety, surpassing traditional packaging solutions.
Active Packaging can have moisture absorbers, oxygen scavengers, antimicrobial coatings, and temperature control elements, which can result into following outcomes:
- Incorporating natural desiccants, like clay or plant-based solutions, in order to absorb excess moisture, to prevent any mold growth or spoilage in fresh products
- Oxygen absorbers made from natural substances can also be integrated which can reduce the effect of oxidation.
- Biodegradable films are also infused with natural antimicrobial agents, such as essential oils or organic compounds, to prevent accidental bacterial growth
Biodegradable inks
Biodegradable Inks are made from natural, renewable resources such as vegetable oils (like soy or linseed), algae-based materials, or other organic substances. Unlike traditional inks that contain petroleum-based chemicals and heavy metals. Employed for environmentally-conscious printing, and applications where reducing environmental footprints is essential
Edible packaging
Edible Packaging refers to the type of packaging made from materials that are safe to consume. Often produced from natural ingredients like seaweed, starch, or certain plant-based substances.
Their relationship with biodegradable packaging lies in their shared goal of reducing environmental impact. Both aim to minimize waste, but they differ in their approach. Edible packaging can be directly consumed by humans, while biodegradable packaging breaks down naturally over time without harming the environment.
Plantable packaging
Plantable Packaging is a type of eco-friendly packaging embedded with seeds. After use, instead of being discarded, the packaging can be planted in soil, where it decomposes and releases seeds that sprout into plants.
This type of packaging is typically made from biodegradable materials like paper, cardboard, or other plant-based fibers, allowing it to break down naturally.
A greener tomorrow begins with smarter packaging
Many countries have implemented strict regulations to reduce single-use plastics and non-biodegradable packaging. In fact, governments are also promoting sustainable packaging through incentives such as tax exemptions and grants.
Even if regulatory requirements are ignored, shifting to biodegradable packaging increases the ROI of several business entities and industries. This is because consumers are now ready to pay more for a sustainable product. If you’re prepared to adapt to this positive change, explore our biodegradable packaging products now.