The race to revolutionize plastics is accelerating. Harnessing nature’s building blocks, bioplastics are used to make better alternatives. At the forefront of this materials revolution are 12 groundbreaking biodegradable plastic suppliers whose innovations are redefining what’s possible in sustainable packaging.
In the face of growing environmental pressures and consumer demands for sustainable alternatives, a new generation of bioplastic innovators is changing the way we think about packaging. These visionary companies are taking it from nature’s building blocks – from mushroom roots, even food waste – to create materials that are protecting products and planet.
By integrating cutting edge biotechnology and sustainable sourcing they are showing that the future of packaging can be high performing and earth friendly. The impact is already rippling through supply chains worldwide, as major brands pivot away from petroleum based plastics to these renewable alternatives.
What is Biodegradable Plastic?
These materials decompose through biological processes, unlike conventional plastics that pollute environments for centuries. Microorganisms break down biodegradable plastics into natural elements – water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. Living organisms actively transform these innovative materials back into their basic components.
It’s crucial to understand that “biodegradable” doesn’t mean the plastic will decompose quickly or in all conditions. Several key factors affect biodegradation:
- Environmental conditions: Temperature, moisture, and oxygen levels must be suitable
- Time frame: Decomposition can take months to years depending on the material
- Proper facilities: Many biodegradable plastics require industrial composting facilities with specific conditions for effective breakdown
A common misconception is that all bioplastics are biodegradable. This isn’t true – some bio-based plastics are just as persistent as conventional plastics. Similarly, not all biodegradable plastics are bio-based; some are made from petroleum but engineered to break down.
The term “biodegradable plastic” must meet specific standards and certifications. For example in Europe, to label materials as biodegradable, the materials must decompose by 90% within six months in industrial composting conditions. These standards help prevent greenwashing and ensure consistent performance.
When these plastics break down properly, they integrate back into natural cycles without leaving harmful residues or microplastics. However, if they end up in landfills or the ocean, they may not degrade as intended, highlighting the importance of proper disposal and waste management infrastructure.
Different Types of Biodegradable Plastic
Biodegradable plastics are categorized according to their source material. This creates two distinct groups of bioplastic:
- Bio-based biodegradable plastics: Renewable resources like corn starch, vegetable fats, agricultural byproducts, or food waste make bio-based biodegradable plastics.
- Petroleum-based biodegradable plastics: Manufacturers synthesize petroleum-based biodegradable plastics from fossil fuels (often from recycled sources) , engineering them to break down faster than traditional plastics. An example is polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT).
Source materials for bio-based plastics include sugarcane, corn, potato, wheat, soy, castor seed oil, agricultural waste, and algae. Manufacturers process these feedstocks into diverse materials including – polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), bio-polyethylene, starch blends, cellulose-based materials, and protein or lignin-based composites. The chemical structure of the final product, rather than the source material, determines biodegradability.
The History of Simple Things Youtube channels explains here how Biodegradable plastic is made.
5 Types of Bioplastics
Sustainable materials and specifically bioplastics can be derived from diverse natural sources, with five key categories emerging as frontrunners: cellulose-based polymers from plant fibers, protein-based materials from renewable sources, aliphatic polyesters, starch-derived compounds, and innovative seaweed-based alternatives.
1. Starch-Based Bioplastics
Starch-based materials are widely used in packaging. They’re often blended with other biodegradable polyesters to enhance properties. These blends offer a balance of performance and sustainability.
2. Cellulose-Based Bioplastics
Derived from wood or cotton, cellulose-based plastics like cellulose acetate offer unique properties. They’re less common due to higher costs but excel in specific applications.
3. Protein-Based Bioplastics
Protein-based bioplastics are making waves in sustainable packaging circles. While still developing, they show promise for future applications.Forward-thinking manufacturers are particularly excited about their potential in food packaging solutions.
4. Seaweed-Based Bioplastics
Marine-derived bioplastics represent an exciting frontier in sustainable packaging innovation. Seaweed offers unique advantages as a bioplastic source material. Seaweed-based polymers naturally decompose in marine environments. Their molecular structure allows for customizable degradation timeframes. These materials integrate smoothly with existing manufacturing processes.
5. Aliphatic-Based Bioplastics
Aliphatic bioplastics are primarily produced through natural bacterial fermentation of cheap carbon sources such as molasses, sucrose, lactose, glycerol, oils, and methane. These long-chain molecules consist of repeating ester groups and are considered environmentally friendly due to their ability to decompose naturally
The Bioplastic Lifecycle
The lifecycle of bioplastics encompasses several interconnected stages, from raw material sourcing to end-of-life management:
- Agricultural Feedstock and Renewable Raw Materials: The cycle begins with the cultivation of crops like sugarcane, corn, or other starch-rich plants, which serve as renewable feedstock for bioplastic production.
- Photosynthesis: These crops capture CO2 from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, converting it into biomass.
- Extraction: The harvested plants undergo a process to extract starches and other useful compounds.
- Fermentation and Polymerization: Manufacturers ferment and polymerize extracted materials to create bioplastic resins.
- Production: Companies transform these resins into packaging materials and consumer goods.
- Use and Reuse: Consumers use and reuse bioplastic products multiple times before disposal.
- Recycling: Some bioplastics can be recycled along with traditional plastics, contributing to a circular economy.
- Organic Waste and Composting: Industrial composting facilities break down compostable bioplastics with organic waste.
- Biodegradation: In proper composting conditions, compostable bioplastics break down into CO2, water, and biomass.
- Energy Recovery: Non-recyclable or non-compostable bioplastics can undergo energy recovery processes, such as incineration with energy capture.
- CO2 and H2O Biomass: The composting or biodegradation process releases CO2 and water, which can be reabsorbed by plants, completing the cycle.
This lifecycle demonstrates the potential for bioplastics to contribute to a more sustainable and circular economy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing environmental impact.
12 Best Worldwide Biodegradable Plastic Suppliers
The biodegradable plastics market is surging toward USD 30.05 billion by 2029, with innovative biodegradable plastic suppliers leading the charge in sustainable packaging solutions. Here’s a curated list of top performers shaping tomorrow’s plastic-free world.
BioLogiQ Inc
BioLogiQ is a pioneering bioplastics company revolutionizing the industry with plant-powered solutions. Founded in 2011 in Idaho Falls, this innovative firm aims to reduce plastic pollution in our oceans and environment.
BioLogiQ has expanded globally, with facilities in the U.S. and Asia. Their solutions help industries align with UN Sustainable Development Goals and transition to a more sustainable, circular economy.
The company’s proprietary iQ Technology transforms high-crystalline starch into an amorphous biopolymer. This advanced thermoplastic starch (TPS) forms the basis of their sustainable plastic alternatives.
BioLogiQ’s star offering is NuPlastiQ, a groundbreaking biopolymer:
- Made from renewable plant sources
- Carbon-neutral at production
- Blends with various plastics, including bioplastics and traditional polymers
- Enhances biodegradation of final products
Key Benefits
BioLogiQ’s bioplastic solutions offer numerous advantages:
- Reduce reliance on fossil fuels
- Decrease microplastic accumulation
- Maintain product performance while boosting sustainability
- Improve biodegradation of blended plastics
Product Range
BioLogiQ’s portfolio includes:
- NuPlastiQ: The core biopolymer technology
- BioBlend: A line of blended resins
- DuraPlantiQ: Resins for durable applications
Polymateria
Polymateria Ltd is a British tech company revolutionizing biodegradable plastic alternatives. Their groundbreaking Biotransformation technology tackles plastic pollution head-on. Their innovations have gained traction across various sectors. They’ve partnered with clothing brands, racing events, and major retailers. Their technology has been applied to products ranging from food packaging to baler twine.
Polymateria’s flagship product, Cycle+, brings advanced biodegradation to various plastics without compromising recyclability.
This innovative solution allows plastics to fully biodegrade in natural environments if they escape refuse streams. The technology works in three stages:
- Dormant application
- Chemical transformation
- Biological consumption
Importantly, the process leaves no microplastics behind. Only carbon dioxide, water, and biomass remain.
Product Range
Polymateria offers two main product lines:
- DegrAid: For short service life (<6 months) applications like sealant films
- Cycle+: For rigid packaging with longer service life (6 months to 3 years)
These solutions cater to different packaging needs while maintaining eco-friendly properties.
Environmental Impact
Polymateria’s technology addresses a critical environmental issue. With billions of tonnes of plastic pollution expected by 2050, their time-controlled open-air biodegradable plastics offer a promising solution.
The company’s materials can degrade in as little as 6-12 months, compared to centuries for conventional plastics. This breakthrough could significantly reduce plastic waste in oceans and on land.
Plantic Technologies
Plantic Technologies is a leading innovator in high barrier bioplastics. Based in Australia, the company develops sustainable packaging solutions derived from renewable resources like corn starch. Plantic Technologies continues to innovate, developing new products like rigid foam, shrink, and barrier lidding films to meet evolving packaging needs in an eco-friendly manner.
Plantic Technologies offers innovative bioplastic solutions with remarkable features:
- Biodegradable and Compostable: Plantic’s materials are certified biodegradable in water, soil, and home compost.
- High Performance: Their bioplastics offer excellent gas barrier properties, up to 1000 times better than polypropylene.
- Environmentally Friendly: Production requires about 50% less energy compared to conventional plastics.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for rigid and flexible packaging, thermoforming, and various molding processes.
Product Range
Plantic offers several bioplastic products:
- Plantic eco Plastic
- Plantic R1
- Plantic HP1
These products come in various thicknesses and can be processed using standard packaging equipment.
Market Adoption
Major retailers and food producers have embraced Plantic’s bioplastics, including Coles, Marks & Spencer, and Nestlé. The company accounts for about 65% of the rigid plastic trays market in Australia.
PTT MCC Biochem
PTT MCC Biochem, based in Bangkok, is a joint venture between PTT Global Chemical and Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation. They are driving innovation in Thailand’s thriving bioplastics sector. Their commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology positions them as a key player in the global shift towards eco-friendly materials.
BioPBS is a revolutionary bioplastic with impressive features made from renewable sources and excels in biodegradability. It breaks down naturally into biomass, CO2, and water, even at ambient temperatures.
BioPBS™ Technology:
- Bio-based and biodegradable plastic
- Derived from natural resources like sugarcane, cassava, and corn
- Compostable into biomass, CO2, and water
- High heat resistance (up to 100°C)
- Excellent heat sealability and printability
Compostable and Recyclable
This bioplastic is both industrially compostable and home compostable. It’s also recyclable, supporting a circular economy approach.
Applications:
- Food packaging
- Disposable tableware
- Paper cups
- Agricultural mulch films
- Coffee capsules
Recent Developments:
- Strategic partnership with Nordic Bioproducts Group (2024)
- Focus on next-gen bioplastics with superior performance
- Exploring integration of cellulosic fibers with BioPBS™
Kelpi
Kelpi is a Bristol-based sustainable packaging innovator making waves in the climate tech space. This dynamic startup is tackling plastic pollution head-on with their groundbreaking seaweed-based bioplastics.
- Recyclable
- Compostable
- Marine-safe
- High-performance with strong water and oxygen barriers
- Grease and acid-resistant
Industry Partnerships
Kelpi has secured R&D contracts with global leaders, including:- L’Oréal
- Diageo
- Waitrose
Environmental Impact
By harnessing seaweed, Kelpi offers a truly sustainable packaging solution:- Seaweed grows without fertilizer, land, or freshwater
- Absorbs carbon and produces oxygen
- Helps de-acidify oceans
Traceless Materials
Traceless Materials is a German bioeconomy startup innovating sustainable packaging. They’ve developed an innovative alternative to conventional plastics using agricultural waste products.
Traceless Materials aims to address global plastic pollution by offering a truly circular alternative. Their products are designed to fully decompose in natural environments without leaving harmful residues.
Key Features
- 100% bio-based: Made from plant residues from food production
- Home compostable: Decomposes in 2-9 weeks under natural conditions
- Plastic-free: Contains no synthetic polymers or harmful additives
- Climate-friendly: Up to 60% lower greenhouse gas emissions than conventional plastics
- Resource-efficient: Reduces water demand and land use
Product Offerings
Traceless produces a thermoplastic granulate that can be processed using standard plastic manufacturing methods. This versatile material can be used to create:
- Flexible films
- Rigid packaging
- Coatings and adhesives
- Single-use products
NatureWorks
NatureWorks is a world-leading biopolymers supplier and innovator. They manufacture Ingeo, a brand of polylactic acid (PLA) and lactides. These greenhouse gas-based materials are used to create plastics and fibers. Their main manufacturing facility in Blair, Nebraska, has a capacity of 150,000 metric tons of Ingeo biopolymer annually.
Ingeo is NatureWorks’ flagship product. It’s a low-carbon, biobased material made from renewable feedstocks. Ingeo offers performance and economics that compete with oil-based materials.
Applications
Ingeo finds use in various industries:
- Packaging: Coffee capsules and food containers
- Textiles: Tea bags and diapers
- 3D printing: Filament for large-format printing
- Durables: Home appliances and electronics
Environmental Impact
Compared to traditional fossil-based polymers, Ingeo production:
- Produces about 80% less greenhouse gases
- Uses 52% less non-renewable energy
Novamont
Novamont stands as a trailblazer in Italy’s bioplastics sector. This innovative company leads the charge in developing eco-friendly materials and biochemicals.
At the heart of Novamont’s offerings is Mater-Bi, their flagship bioplastic. This versatile material boasts biodegradability and compostability.
At the heart of Novamont’s offerings is Mater-Bi, their flagship bioplastic. This versatile material boasts biodegradability and compostability. Mater-Bi finds use in various applications, from mulch films to food packaging. Novamont’s approach centers on circular bioeconomy principles.
Key Products and Applications
Novamont’s product line extends beyond Mater-Bi:
- Matrol-Bi: A range of biodegradable biolubricants and greases
- Celus-Bi: Innovative ingredients for cosmetics, derived from renewable sources
These products showcase Novamont’s commitment to sustainability across diverse sectors.
Research and Innovation
Novamont’s dedication to innovation is clear:
- Four research centers drive product development
- 20% of staff focus on R&D activities
- The company holds around 1,400 patents
This robust research foundation keeps Novamont at the forefront of bioplastics innovation.
Environmental Impact
Novamont’s products aim to address specific environmental concerns:
- Mater-Bi helps divert organic waste from landfills
- Soil-biodegradable mulch films reduce agricultural plastic waste
- Biodegradable cosmetic ingredients and biolubricants minimize environmental dispersion
By focusing on soil and water quality, Novamont contributes to ecosystem protection.
Biolive
Biolive is reshaping the bioplastics landscape with innovative, eco-friendly solutions. Founded in 2017, this dynamic startup has quickly become a frontrunner in sustainable materials. Biolive continues to innovate, exploring new applications in metals, ceramics, and even space exploration.
Biolive has developed an innovative process to produce bioplastic granules from olive pits.
- 100% natural and bio-based
- Biodegradable within one year
- Cost-effective (90% cheaper than existing bioplastics)
- Antibacterial properties
- Compatible with human health
- Recyclable and compostable
Production Process
Biolive’s patented technology transforms olive pit waste into sustainable biopolymers. Their facility in Istanbul can produce 9,600 tons annually, utilizing 500,000 tons of olive waste from Turkey’s oil extraction process.
Product Range
Biolive offers several bioplastic products:
- Bio Pura: 100% bio-based and biodegradable polymer
- Bio Pype
- Bio Hype
- Bio Lype
These products are suitable for various industrial applications and can be processed using injection molding methods.
Environmental Impact
Biolive’s approach supports 11 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. By upcycling industrial waste, they’re promoting a circular economy and reducing reliance on petroleum-based plastics.
Future Developments
Biolive continues to innovate, exploring new applications in metals, ceramics, and even space exploration. Their commitment to sustainability and innovation positions them as a leader in eco-friendly material solutions.
BUYO Bioplastics
BUYO Bioplastics is a pioneering startup in the sustainable materials sector. Founded in 2022 and based in Hanoi, Vietnam, BUYO specializes in developing biodegradable bioplastics from bio-waste and plant-based materials.
BUYO serves B2B customers in demanding markets like the EU, North America, and Asia. They’ve won numerous awards for their innovative solutions and operate a modern manufacturing facility in Ho Chi Minh City.
BUYO employs two key technologies:
- Material engineering: Compounds biowaste with biopolymers to create biocomposites for packaging.
- Bio-fermentation: Uses nutrients from biowaste to feed proprietary bacterial strains, producing 100% bio-based materials for medical, cosmetic, and textile applications.
Product Offerings
BUYO’s bioplastic products boast several impressive features:
- Fully biodegradable in natural environments
- Safe for human health
- Minimal carbon footprint
- Comparable properties to synthetic plastics
Their product range includes:
- Flexible packaging
- Rigid packaging
- Medical applications
- Cosmetic textiles
Competitive Edge
BUYO stands out by:
- Upcycling agricultural waste instead of using food crops
- Offering cost-competitive pricing due to low-cost bio-waste inputs
- Providing a solution that’s fully biodegradable without industrial composting
Bioform Technologies
Bioform Technologies is a Vancouver-based startup revolutionizing the sustainable materials industry. Founded in 2021, they’ve developed a groundbreaking method to create plastic alternatives using wood pulp and kelp. Bioform aims to begin commercial production by 2027, offering a scalable solution to plastic pollution without compromising on performance or cost.
Bioform’s proprietary process combines wood pulp-reinforced hydrogels with kelp to produce high-performance bioplastics. This method leverages existing pulp and paper machinery, enabling rapid production at competitive costs.
Product Features
- Fully bio-based and home compostable
- 80% lower carbon footprint than conventional plastics
- Versatile applications (packaging, films, utensils)
- Comparable cost to traditional plastics
- Biodegrades in as little as six months
Applications
Bioform’s bioplastics can replace a wide range of single-use plastics:
- Thermoformable films for packaging
- Heat-sealable films for pouches
- Agricultural mulch film
- Garbage bags
- Food packaging and utensils
Funding and Growth
The company recently secured up to $5 million from Suzano Ventures, bringing their total funding to over $8.6 million. This investment will support:
- Establishing a demonstration facility
- Expanding the team
- Enhancing production capabilities
TotalEnergies Corbion
TotalEnergies Corbion is a 50/50 joint venture between TotalEnergies and Corbion, established as a global leader in Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) bioplastics and lactide monomers. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company operates a 75,000-ton-per-year PLA production facility in Rayong, Thailand, with plans to build a second 100,000-ton plant in Grandpuits, France.
In 2021, TotalEnergies Corbion launched the world’s first commercially available chemically recycled PLA (Luminy® rPLA) made from post-industrial/consumer waste. This recycled PLA maintains identical properties to virgin material while reducing reliance on virgin feedstocks.
Sustainability Features
- 75% lower carbon footprint compared to traditional plastics
- Bonsucro-certified sugarcane sourcing ensuring sustainable agriculture
- Biodegradable under industrial composting conditions
- Compatible with mechanical/chemical recycling streams
Market Applications
Luminy® PLA serves diverse sectors including:
- Food packaging and serviceware
- Textiles and non-wovens
- 3D printing filaments
- Automotive components
Implementation Strategies for Biodegradable Plastics
Making the switch to biodegradable plastics requires careful planning. Smart implementation can transform your packaging sustainability while maintaining operational efficiency.
Production Integration
Most bioplastics work seamlessly with existing production equipment. Leading suppliers offer drop-in solutions that minimize retooling costs. Your current machinery can often handle these materials with minor adjustments.
Quality Assurance
Rigorous testing protocols ensure consistent material performance. Top suppliers conduct extensive trials before commercial release. This process guarantees reliable results across different applications.
Cost Management
Smart sourcing strategies can offset initial cost differences. Bulk purchasing agreements often provide competitive pricing. Many suppliers offer volume-based incentives to support large-scale adoption.
Certification Support
Leading suppliers help navigate complex certification requirements. They provide documentation for food-safety compliance. Their expertise streamlines the approval process for new packaging materials.
Supply Chain Integration
Successful implementation requires strong supplier partnerships. Regular communication ensures steady material availability. Strategic inventory management prevents production disruptions.
Performance Monitoring
Track key metrics to optimize material usage. Monitor processing parameters for maximum efficiency. Regular performance reviews help identify improvement opportunities.
Staff Training
Comprehensive training programs support smooth transitions. Operators learn proper handling techniques. Technical teams receive specialized troubleshooting guidance. Regular skill assessments ensure team competency stays high. Cross-training initiatives build versatility across different packaging systems.
Waste Management
Proper disposal systems will maximize environmental benefits. Partner with certified composting facilities. Establish clear end-of-life protocols for all materials.
Customer Education
Clear communication helps customers understand product benefits. Share proper disposal instructions. Highlight sustainability achievements in marketing materials. Engage through social media to build a community around your sustainable initiatives. Create easy-to-follow guides that showcase your packaging’s environmental impact.
Future Planning
Stay informed about emerging material innovations. Plan for scaling sustainable packaging solutions. Build flexibility into implementation strategies. Partner with research institutions to stay ahead of packaging trends. Allocate resources for continuous testing of new sustainable materials.
Risk Management
Develop contingency plans for supply chain disruptions. Maintain relationships with multiple suppliers. Keep alternative material options ready when needed. Regularly assess market conditions affecting raw material availability. Create a robust quality control system to maintain consistency across different suppliers.
Regulatory Compliance
Stay ahead of changing packaging regulations. Work with suppliers who monitor legislative trends. Prepare for upcoming sustainability requirements. This approach will help companies successfully integrate biodegradable plastics. Each step builds toward sustainable packaging goals. Smart implementation creates lasting environmental impact.
Looking Ahead
Biodegradable plastic suppliers are changing the sustainable packaging sector. These new age materials are reshaping the existing industry standards while fulfilling the need for more environmentally-friendly solutions. Market projections show tremendous growth potential.
This year, the global bioplastics sector is expected to reach $44 billion. The environmental benefits are clear and measurable. Bioplastics are environmentally friendly and they cut carbon emissions by up to 30% compared to traditional plastics.
Energy requirement in manufacturing is 65% lower than that of petroleum based alternatives. The future looks promising as governments implement supportive policies.
It’s likely that the price of bioplastics will soon be competitive with that of traditional plastics. This will further boost their uptake across various sectors. Bioplastics are not only an alternative, but the future of a circular economy packaging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can biodegradable plastics integrate with our existing production lines?
Most bioplastics work as drop-in solutions with conventional equipment.
How does quality control work for biodegradable materials?
Biodegradable plastic suppliers test grades across multiple customers before commercialization to ensure consistent quality.
Are these materials food-safe certified?
Many suppliers offer food-grade certifications with complete migration testing
How do biodegradable plastics compare cost-wise to traditional plastics?
Costs vary by material type, with some options offering competitive pricing against conventional plastics.
References
European Bioplastics: Bioplastics market development update
PlasticsIndustry.org: Bioplastics Simplified
ResearchGate: Exploration of Bioplastics: A Review
ScienceDriect: The Future of Bioplastics in Food Packaging