History
European Bioplastics originated as a working group established by BASF and the German government to promote a fossil-based biodegradable plastic known as PBAT.
When this working group evolved into a formal association, it expanded its mission to include bio-based plastics as well.
However, internal tensions have long existed between its two main branches — the compostable plastics division and the bio-based plastics division.
Over time, the compostable plastics division has been associated with questionable practices and has gained a reputation for operating in an increasingly opaque and aggressive manner.
In response, European Bioplastics has begun to separate its compostable plastics activities into a new platform known as Compostable by Design.
Why the split?
Novamont — along with its parent company ENI — was one of the founding pioneers of European Bioplastics. For years, Novamont dominated the compostable plastics market through its Mater-Bi line of compostable plastic bags.
This leadership position was largely built upon the strong support of the Italian market, where the company established its reputation and market share.
However, recent scandals have brought to light serious allegations of criminal activity connected to the business practices of Novamont and ENI.
Adding to the controversy, investigations have revealed that Mater-Bi bags are rarely composted in Italy — instead, they are often exported abroad or incinerated, undermining the company’s sustainability claims.
For many members of European Bioplastics, continued association with Novamont and ENI has become increasingly problematic, as these scandals have cast a shadow over the entire organization.
Meanwhile, ENI is reportedly seeking to sell both Novamont and its chemical subsidiary Versalis to questionable investment funds, a move that has raised further concerns about the companies’ future.
In short, the house of cards appears to be collapsing.
Future
European Bioplastics is not innocent and time has come to expose the practices of European Bioplastics in the coming weeks.
Message to European Bioplastics & its members
Message to the Young Generation of European Bioplastics Employees and to the EUBP Members Unconnected to Its Shady Undertakings
I want to make it clear that I have no issue with you — my differences lie with the older generation. This is a legacy conflict, rooted in the past.
Unfortunately, certain individuals from that earlier era made it personal, even going so far as to organize a boycott against me (European Bioplastics Calls for a Boycott).
That behavior speaks volumes about the kind of people we’re dealing with. True gentlemen would never act that way.
In my former career as a lobbyist, such conduct would have been unthinkable. My superiors would never have tolerated that kind of personal attack against another organization — let alone against an individual.
Sadly, European Bioplastics has long suffered from a weak moral compass, and perhaps it’s no coincidence that the very idea of a “compostable” plastic has always been somewhat crooked itself.
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