2025
Compostable coffee capsule ads from brands including Dualit and Lavazza Coffee have been banned after the UK’s advertising watchdog deemed them to be “misleading”.
Exposure to PE-MPs and PLA-MPs disrupted glycerophospholipid metabolism in mice. PLA-MPs induced more serious damage to liver and gut tissues than PE-MPs.
But here’s what the advertisements don’t show. Those bags dissolving beautifully in the commercials are sitting in expensive laboratories with perfect conditions – controlled temperature, specific moisture levels, and carefully maintained bacteria cultures. The real world, especially India’s chaotic waste management system, looks nothing like those sterile laboratory conditions.
PLA—the “eco” plastic—had the strongest impact on carbon composition. It reduced plant-derived lignin in the soil by 32%, meaning fewer stable carbon compounds from roots and crop residues were being preserved. Why? Because PLA attracted a special group of microbes known as K-strategists—slow-growing,
The results showed that PBAT MPs inhibited wheat growth, damaged the root ultrastructure, and decreased mineral levels
Micro- and nanoplastics cause stress to crops such as lettuce and carrots, PhD candidate Laura Julia Zantis found. This can lead to reduced growth and a lower nutritional value. Biodegradable plastics have this effect too, likely because of chemicals they release during degradation.
Studies by scientists at the University of Stirling show that biodegradable wet wipes can last up to 15 weeks on beaches, where they can act as a reservoir for faecal bacteria and E.coli.
MET+PLA exposure induced more gut toxicity than MET+PE at high MET concentration. MET+PLA showed more complex toxicity due to small PLA particles and MET interaction.
But, said Pryor, if bioplastic and compostable food packaging manufacturers’ get their way, the whole system could collapse.
In this recent study mice were split up into three groups, for either no, low or high levels of these bioplastics in their food. At autopsy, the mice exposed to the bioplastics all showed damage to organs, including the same gene-regulation issues and inflammation markers as seen with other plastics.
- Exposure to different shapes PLA-MPs disrupts gut metabolism and microbiota balance. Research underscores ecological and toxicological risks of different shapes of PLA.
Researchers in China and the United States said the microplastics – from polylactic acid – were found to alter the gut metabolism and damage the gut barrier of mice.
When compared to conventional plastic products with the same purpose, almost all compostable plastics tested had higher chemical hazard levels.
Certain plastics are supposed to be biodegradable but will only decompose under very specific conditions, which may be restricted to controlled industrial settings. Additionally, the presence of petroleum-based polymers and additives within biobased plastics complicates processing. The so-called biodegradable plastics biodegrade poorly under real-life conditions (in soils, home composting) and should be better labelled so they are managed in a way that actually spurs their biodegradation. Potential alternatives like biobased plastics are nonetheless plastics, and their manufacturing, recycling, and disposal remains equally complex.
Microplastic pollution is everywhere, leading researchers to search for plastic alternatives. But according to findings published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers say particles from one type of biodegradable plastic used commonly in food packaging could disrupt metabolic cycles.
Results from a new animal study suggest that microscopic plastic particles found in food and beverages may affect glucose metabolism and harm organs such as the liver. The findings raise concerns about potential health risks in people and point to the need for more research.
Polylactic acid – used in food packaging, disposable tableware and clothing – found to alter gut metabolism and harm gut barrier of mice
Compostable coffee capsule ads from brands including Dualit and Lavazza Coffee have been banned after the UK’s advertising watchdog deemed them to be “misleading”.
A new study found that plant-based bioplastics marketed as biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastic can cause organ damage, gut disruption, and metabolic issues when ingested over time.
Bioplastics, heralded for supposedly breaking down more quickly, can cause similar health problems to other plastics.
They’re often marketed as a more environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional plastic bags But a new study might make you rethink reaching for those biodegradable bags. Experts from Southeast University in China have warned that these ‘eco-friendly’ options could be toxic.
Experts warn that using starch-based biodegradable plastic bags may adversely affect health.
Animal testing has shown that starch-based biodegradable bioplastics, which are suggested as safer and more eco-friendly alternatives than petroleum-based plastics, can also cause health problems
“Biodegradable starch-based plastics may not be as safe and health-promoting as originally assumed,” says Yongfeng Deng, the corresponding author of the study.
The effects of MPs on the soil microbiome are time dependent. BMPs have a stronger effect on soil microbiome compared with CMPs.
The study provides the first long-term investigation into how starch-based microplastics (SMPs)—which result from the degradation of these bioplastics—impact mammalian biology.
The study provides the first long-term investigation into how starch-based microplastics (SMPs)—which result from the degradation of these bioplastics—impact mammalian biology.
MANY people buy and use “compostable” or “biodegradable” bags believing they are doing the right thing for the environment. Sadly, this is not always the case.
The problem of microplastics plaguing marine ecosystems is worse than previously thought and even biodegradable plastics are causing harm, Israeli scientists warned, according to The Press Service of Israel (TPS-IL).
A new lawsuit filed in January alleges that Sprouts Farmers Market and manufacturer EcoSoul Home have falsely represented their disposable dishes and cutlery as compostable when they actually contain toxins, ClassAction.org reported.
Adverts showcasing Lavazza’s Eco Caps coffee pods and Dualit’s compostable coffee bags have been banned after the Advertising Standards Authority ruled they were likely to mislead consumers.
Advertising Standards Authority says neither Lavazza UK nor Dualit’s product can be recycled at home
In a review article, researchers highlight the importance of metrology institutions in setting standards to characterize biopolymers and avoid greenwashing – a marketing practice that deceptively promotes products as being environmentally friendly.
A groundbreaking study by Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) and the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) has uncovered alarming levels of microplastic contamination in organic wastes and composts applied to land in New Zealand.
A proposed class action lawsuit claims Sprouts Farmers Market and manufacturer EcoSoul Home, Inc. have misrepresented certain disposable tableware and cutlery sets as compostable, given the products contain “forever chemicals” that do not break down into usable compost.
Sprouts Farmers Market is facing a class action lawsuit claiming the grocer and manufacturer EcoSoul Home, Inc. misrepresented select disposable tableware and cutlery sets as compostable.
Are bioplastics and plant-based materials safer than conventional plastics? Scientists from Mendel University in Brno have been investigating one type of bioplastic, and their findings are alarming. Even plastics marketed as eco-friendly, can negatively affect the soil, causing an overgrowth of microorganisms, which then compete with plants for vital nutrients.
Often touted as the green choice, biodegradable plastics seem like the perfect solution to fight pollution. But their impact on Mother Earth isn’t as simple as it sounds. This article busts the myths about these materials, and uncovers their true (and surprisingly large) ecological footprint. It highlights that the benefits of biodegradable plastics are far from clear-cut, and calls for a deeper understanding of their role in sustainability.
2025 Media
2024
Bioplastics, often considered a safer alternative to synthetic plastics, may in some cases be toxic to soil organisms, a worrisome finding that indicates a need for more thorough testing, according to a new study. The work adds to a growing body of research suggesting that bioplastics, which are derived from plant materials or other biological feedstocks, are not necessarily safer than plastics that come from petroleum.
The latest research urges scientists to thoroughly test materials proposed as plastic substitutes before they see widespread use in consumer products. A recent study reveals that bio-based materials, intended to replace conventional plastics, might pose significant health risks to essential species on Earth.
Biobased plastics are sometimes promoted as “environmentally friendly” compared to their conventional petrochemical-based counterparts, but their ecotoxicity is only partially understood.
In addition to seeking ways to reduce our reliance on plastics, especially single-use ones, scientists are exploring biodegradable alternatives. These are praised for their “environmental friendliness” because they break down more easily. But a recent study by scientists at Southern Medical University in Guangzhou, China says even they may pose unforeseen health risks.
Biodegradable plastics, hailed for their environmental friendliness, may pose unforeseen risks as they undergo gastrointestinal degradation, forming oligomer nanoplastics. Despite this, the influence of gastrointestinal degradation on the potential human toxicity of biodegradable plastics remains poorly understood.
Locals are being urged to rethink compostable products as new research reveals hidden dangers. With New Zealand’s ban on single-use plastics, consumers have turned to compostables, assuming they’re eco-friendly. However, a University of Auckland study found many of these products contain toxic substances.
HOUSTON — The lack of federal regulations and clear definitions for bioplastics make it increasingly difficult to determine whether or not they are a safe alternative to traditional plastics, according to a new report from Beyond Plastics.
Microplastic pollution remains a persistent environmental challenge for aquatic environments. Yet, health impact assessments of microplastics focus largely on the polymers themselves. It is important to understand the chemical behaviour and biological effects of both plastics and chemicals associated with their production, such as additives and solvents.
Emerging research shows that plant-based plastics — just like petroleum-based plastics — contain many thousands of synthetic chemicals, with large numbers of them extremely toxic. However, the bioplastics industry strongly denies that bio-based plastics contain hazardous substances.
Biodegradable plastic carrier bags are more toxic than conventional plastic bags, a new study has found.
Items such as coffee cups and bin liners are wrongly labelled ‘compostable’, leading to calls for governments to impose standards
The products are advertised as an alternative to traditional plastic straws and are made from plant-based corn, plastic or paper. But those products are not as biodegradable as they seem.
A new multi-trial study appears to find significant improvements in the disposal of certified compostable packaging when people are given clear instructions and consistent labelling. Independent environmental and behaviour change expert Hubbub – which completed the study with the University of Sheffield – warns that compostable packaging is not a silver bullet and should only be used in specific circumstances.
The Redditor shared a photo of “100% compostable pods” manufactured by the brand PurPod, noting that each pod is individually wrapped in noncompostable plastic.
Plastic pollution reaches remote environments and human tissues, but recycling and bioplastics fall short. Explore how industry solutions perpetuate environmental harm and why real change requires a radical shift in global plastic use
Researchers find many “biodegradable” plastics end up in landfills or oceans, where they persist for years without degrading significantly. According to studies, they can create a lot of nano- and micro-plastics.
Acts like plastic, but made of plants? As the plastic pollution crisis grows in scale and urgency, consumer product and packaging companies are increasingly relying on so-called “bioplastics” to replace conventional fossil-fuel plastics. These bioplastics are made from many different types of ingredients, and it can be hard to keep up with all the developments. But we ignore them at our peril.
This review focuses on emerging trends in micro(nano)bioplastic research. This study found that hidden pollution from bioplastics is an emerging problem. This work serves as a strong platform for future micro(nano)bioplastic research. Defining factors for completed degradation of bioplastics is a key research gap
The packaging industry faces consumer demand for sustainable solutions, with compostable packaging being a significant innovation introduced over the last few years. However, while a shift from plastic and consumer awareness around what is and is not recyclable has grown, plastic alternatives are not always better regarding recyclability or their ability to maintain food quality and safety requirements.
Media
Additives in compostable products in Aotearoa New Zealand
Initiative Update: Dirty Beaches and Dangerous Bioplastics!
Bioplastics create a composting conundrum
2023
- A preliminary study analyzes the toxicity of compostable bags compared to conventional plastic bags (article in Spanish)
A study by the CSIC using zebrafish cells ‘in vitro’ shows that the aging of biodegradable bags due to ultraviolet rays increases with toxicity levels
Compostable plastics show higher toxicity than conventional and recycled plastics. Additives in bioplastic formulations require careful evaluation.
Research that suggests the breakdown products of compostable plastic bags could be toxic has been criticised by the bioplastics industry
Reported effects of bioplastics on coastal ecosystems were reviewed. PLA and Mater-bi® bags are the most studied bioplastics. Overall, effects induced by bioplastics are similar to those of conventional plastics. Balance between bioplastic production and sustainability is a major problem.
Precautionary measures must be taken in relation to commercialization of bioplastics.
Bioplastics may avoid some of the issues associated with non-biodegradable fossil fuel–derived plastics, but they’re no panacea.
A new study by just published in the journal Environment International addresses this question. Scientists from Goethe University Frankfurt and PlastX Research Group have analysed everyday products made of bio-based and/or biodegradable materials now report that the chemicals these alternatives contain are similarly toxic like those in conventional plastics.
Perhaps the biggest problem is that the infrastructure to ensure these bioplastics actually biodegrade or compost is very limited. That means that despite the best intentions of manufacturers and consumers, supposedly compostable plastic bags and supposedly biodegradable single-use cutlery may be causing just as much climate damage as conventional plastics.
“Compostable bioplastics are being certified as capable of being composted in a commercial facility but the reality is that most of them take a really long time to break down, if ever, so they end up being contaminants in commercial compost.” said Miriam Gordon, Reuse Activator for Story of Stuff, a group dedicated to civic engagement around lower consumer consumption habits. “They end up being contaminants in commercial compost.”
“The composting facility where the City’s curbside organics goes to does not accept any compostable plastic bags because the plastic does not fully break down at this facility,” Fretz said. “”The plastic can contaminate the finished product and introduce microplastics into the soil system.”
One of the thousands of problematic substances found in a lot of compostable packaging is PFAS, known as a “forever chemical”.
In short, bioplastics are not a good choice in Marin County
In a disturbing revelation that challenges long-standing solutions to plastic pollution, a study from the University of Otago indicates that biodegradable plastics still pose a threat to aquatic life.
Biodegradable plastics may not be the solution to plastic pollution many hoped for, with a University of Otago study showing they are still harmful to fish.
TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei will enforce a clampdown on the use of PLA containers and tableware from Tuesday (Aug. 1) in a bid to cut plastic waste.
One common greenwashed false solution is single-use products made from “bioplastics.” While the word may confer a green image, in reality, bioplastics are anything but. These materials can be made fully or partially from highly processed plant-based ingredients, such as sugar cane, corn or potato starch.
Bioplastics derived from cane sugar also pose potential environmental hazards. A study conducted by the University of Gothenburg suggests that the behavior of perch fish is altered when they are exposed to this so-called bioplastic.
In 2022, packaging used 48% of bioplastics, which are criticised for changing land use. Disposal options a problem with compostable bioplastic seen as confusing public
New research shows that PLA might not be as environmentally friendly as initially thought.
- Is composting a false solution? (article in French)
Composting plastic packaging is one of the solutions promoted to consumers to limit the damage caused by plastic pollution. But it’s a bad idea! We’ll explain why.
The cups contain a bioplastic lining and are compostable, but there’s still a very good chance they’ll end up in landfill.
Consumer NZ investigative team leader, Rebecca Styles, said the “made from plants, not plastic” claim on Air New Zealand’s in-flight flights was greenwashing.
Plastic made from cane sugar also threatens the environment. Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have found that perch change their behaviour when exposed to so-called bioplastic.
Chronic ingestion of PLA microplastics affected social behavior in juvenile perch. Chronic natural particle ingestion affected gene expression related to oxidative stress and androgen disruption. Both biobased polymer and natural particle exposure showed potential hazards in juvenile fish.
- Not So Biodegradable: New Study Finds Bio-Based Plastic And Plastic-Blend Textiles Do Not Biodegrade In The Ocean
- Not so biodegradable: Polylactic acid and cellulose/plastic blend textiles lack fast biodegradation in marine waters
First-of-its-kind experiment off Scripps Pier finds only natural fibers degrade in the marine environment; plastic fabrics remain intact one year later
But the reality of biodegradable plastic (or “bioplastic”) falls short of meeting our expectations. New research, led by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego, California, has found that a popular bioplastic material called polylactic acid does not break down in the environment nearly as quickly as hoped.
The term “biodegradable” can be deceptive when applied to plastic substitutes that require heat to break down or industrial composting conditions.
Growing crops to make plastic may theoretically reduce reliance on fossil fuels, but at an enormous environmental cost.
After 31 weeks of composting, the mass of the plastics analyzed remained unchanged. Only paper (cellulose) showed a significant reduction (85%) in its mass.
A lack of coordination among multiple ministries of government has led to logjam; several manufacturers stare at an uncertain future
Plastic drinking straws, cutlery, plates, drink stirrers, and cotton buds — even if they are made of compostable plastics — are among the plastic items that will be banned in Victoria from February
- Compost: Biodegradable packaging that is dangerous to health (Article in French)
Despite the indications, biodegradable and compostable packaging offered in supermarkets contains plastic, which should absolutely not be used for composting.
New research warns compostable bags emit methane as they degrade in landfill. These bags should be treated in compostable facilities – but this rarely happens. It says marketing compostable plastics as good for the planet is ‘greenwashing
In a UK-wide study, researchers found that 60% of home-compostable plastics do not fully disintegrate in home compost bins, and inevitably end up in our soil. The study also found that citizens are confused about the labels of compostable and biodegradable plastics, leading to incorrect plastic waste disposal. These results highlight the need to revise and redesign this supposedly sustainable plastic waste management system.
In reality, bio-based plastics are problematic for a variety of reasons. It would take an astounding amount of land and water to grow enough plants to replace traditional plastics — plus energy is needed to produce and ship it all. Bioplastics can be loaded with the same toxic additives that make plastic and still splinter into micro-sized bits that corrupt the land, sea, and air.
Media
‘BIODEGRADABLE’ BIOPLASTICS CONTAMINATE FARMLAND
- Compost Manufacturing Alliance – Windrow (CMA-W) Change
- Ann Arbor, Michigan, takes steps to reduce plastic in compost
Feds explain why compostable bags fall under plastic ban
Tesco accused of greenwashing over ‘biodegradable’ teabags
2022
Read the full article
Bioplastics may be causing more harm than you think.
Growing crops to make plastic could theoretically reduce reliance on fossil fuels and even pull carbon out of the atmosphere, but at an enormous environmental cost.
Bio-based, biodegradable and compostable plastics are often considered as the environmental heroes taking on conventional plastic – but the European Commission says such formats need to be approached carefully if they’re to live up to their promise.
Campaign group says many bioplastics are damaging and they should not be excluded from any ban
In Ottawa — and across the country — compostable products are extremely likely to be screened out of municipal green bin collection and tossed in landfills, where they can’t break down properly and produce methane (a much more potent contributor to climate change than carbon dioxide).
- PBAT addition had larger effects in sandy than in loamy soil. Soil CO2 emissions were greater when small PBAT particles were added compared to large ones.
Biodegradable microplastic particles in soils can lead to an increased rise in CO2 emissions to the Earth’s atmosphere.
A new study conducted in the UK found that 60% of products labeled as compostable do not fully break down in home compost. And unlike conventional plastics, these alternatives are largely unregulated, despite their advertised benefits.
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) recently clarified its guidelines around what was allowed in green compost bins, banning items such as cardboard and certified compostable packaging after research found that some products contained chemicals like PFAS, which can be harmful to human and animal health.
There’s a perception that product packaging labelled as ‘biodegradable’ will simply degrade in a matter of months, reducing litter and making for good compost. That is not always the case. In fact, it can be worse for the environment.
Biodegradable plastics can break down into microplastics, which may pose additional environmental threats, particularly in soil and marine ecosystems.
Behind that green sheen, biodegradable and compostable plastics have serious problems.
Biodegradable plastics (BDP) are expected to mineralize easily, in particular under conditions of technical composting. However, the complexity of the sample matrix has largely prevented degradation studies under realistic conditions.
A study by the University of Bayreuth shows that finished compost from composting plants in Germany contains a large number of biodegradable plastic particles
Consumers are increasingly conscious of environmental issues, but goods’ environmental impacts may not always be what they seem.
Hong Kong consumers who choose biodegradable plastic products to aid a green cause might end up causing more damage to nature.
With the official stance shifting from all-in to wait-and-see, the future of biodegradable plastic in China is uncertain
Unfortunately, for both local food composting programs, degradable plastic creates more problems than it can solve.
Plastic anything — including “compostable” plastics
- Wonder Plastic Pef Will Not Yet Help Solve The Plastic Soup (Article in Ducth)
Plant-based PEF isn’t necessarily designed to biodegrade. Tests show that it only degrades in an industrial composting facility at a temperature of 58 degrees Celsius, taking between 250 and 400 days—about a year
Media
Despite being 100% compostable, these drink cups will still end up in the landfill
Compostable packaging: Environment Ministry urges cautious approach
APR Statement on the Effects of Degradable Additives on Plastics Recycling
2021
We conclude that the microbial decomposition process of PBSA in soil is more complex than previously thought by involving interkingdom relationships, especially between bacteria and fungi.
The idea of biodegradable plastics sounds good at first. However, very little is known about how they are degraded in the soil and how this is influenced by climate change. In two recent studies, soil ecologists at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) have shown which microbial community is responsible for degradation, what role the climate plays in this process, and why biodegradable plastics could still be problematic.
Generally, companies will greenwash consumers by touting their use of “biodegradable packaging” — though that doesn’t always end up impacting waste production.
Companies with eco-friendly branding have flooded the market with compostable packaging, like plates, cups, straws and containers in recent years, but whether that green marketing actually reduces the amount of waste in a landfill depends on where it ends up.
Today Sonoma County District Attorney Jill Ravitch announced that her office, with 22 other District Attorney’s Offices in California, resolved “greenwashing” cases with Chewy, Inc., PetSmart LLC, Petco Animal Supplies, Inc., and Target Corporation. The cases were based on allegations that the companies sold dog waste bags and other plastic products such as bowls and brushes to California residents that were labeled with a variety of misleading environmental claims in violation of numerous laws.
That’s because the pods can contribute to plastic pollution when they’re used the “right” way. They leak large amounts of untreated PVA that can potentially enter groundwater resources and water systems and contaminate the human food chain, according to a literature review by researchers with Arizona State University and the California nonprofit Plastic Oceans International.
While we commend this commitment to sustainability and appreciate the extension of the conversation beyond grocery stores, one distinction must be made: Compostable plastics are not a viable, long-term solution to our plastic crisis.
Despite being touted as solution to plastic waste problem, biodegradable plastics are not given chance to decompose
And, for now, looking for the word “compostable” doesn’t help either. A compostable certification only indicates that a material is able to break down in large municipal or industrial composting facilities as opposed to a home or community bin. Right now only four percent of Americans have access to curbside composting pickup, says Szaky. And in a recent study conducted by TerraCycle, only one in 10 of the industrial composters where those curbside binds wind up actually accept compostable plastics.
The importer of a compostable coffee cup says it has spent two years trying to get Christchurch City Council approval.
But most bioplastics, though often derived from crops, are also partially made of fossil-based plastic, which means they still pose the same recycling issues as the plastics they’re trying to replace, according to a 2019 report from Greenpeace.
With limited global composting infrastructure, the likelihood that a theoretically biodegradable bottle will be composted in practice is low.
Research also reveals that bioplastics do not degrade rapidly in a marine environment
2021 Media
Detergent Pods: Not As Eco-Friendly As Advertised
PVA is Toxic Bioplastic Says Study
2020
Resulting undegraded compostable plastic residues is a significant risk that cannot be quantified at present.
The results indicate that the evidence is weak in favour of any particular agronomic benefit associated with compostable plastic material in compost or digestate and therefore material choices for products and packaging should prioritise recyclability over compostability
The bylaw bans compostable plastic items. It’s unclear if that includes all compostable dishware. According to the City of Dawson website, its community compost accepts “specially designed” compostable products, including spoons, cups, plates, takeout containers, and paper plates with no plastic coating.
Can you call a pot biodegradable when it only composts under very specific circumstances, like in an industrial composting plant? No, says a Danish judge. They forbid the Danish company PlantPaper to advertise one of their PLA products as fully biodegradable, since it only decomposes in an industrial composting plant.
On the surface, biodegradable plastics may seem like a miraculous solution to the waste crisis, but packaging made of polylactic acid (a common biodegradable plastic derived from corn) won’t decompose unless it’s processed at a high-efficiency composting facility. “Biodegradable packaging doesn’t add a lot of value to the compost, and, as a result, composters don’t really want it,” says Waas. “The only sustainable solution is designing single use [plastics] out of the equation.”
A broad shift in consumption from conventional to bio-based materials could be bad news for the environment given the current state of technology.
Moreover, fertilizers used to grow PLA feedstock are responsible for a large amount of GHG emissions. Nitrous oxide, a byproduct of low-cost, nitrogen-based fertilizers, is 310-times more potent than carbon dioxide. A competing bioplastic manufacturer calculated that, “if Natureworks was at full capacity in production it would create 56 [terra grams] of carbon dioxide equivalent more than all of the landfills combined in the United States…”
Too many compostable materials in recycling bins also lead to entire loads of recyclables being rejected by purchasers.
- GreenPeace NL on bioplastics (Article in Dutch)
Biodegradable plastic hardly breaks down in the environment.
2020 Media
How can renewables overcome their human rights problems?
2019
Compostable plastics suffer from a similar issue in that they also need heat to break down. These plastics need to warm to at least 120 degrees to melt. Some people own backyard composters, but many models are not capable of reaching that high of a temperature, Ezrin said.
Even the United Nations has recognized that biodegradable plastics are not a viable alternative: their current production of 4 million tons per year amounts to only a fraction of a percent of the staggering 9.1 billion tons of plastic that have been produced in the past 70 years.
Environmental campaigners are warning that bioplastics and recyclable packaging will not solve the world’s plastics pollution crisis – following a pledge by consumer goods giant Unilever to halve its use of virgin plastics.
Greenpeace also dismissed “bioplastics” or plastics made from plant materials such as corn or sugarcane as “greenwashing.”
“These terms can be confusing for customers, especially when generic ‘greenwashing’ terms such as ‘eco’, ‘bio’ or ‘green’ are used for marketing advantage,” the report said, further explaining that bioplastics do not have a standard definition and can include fossil fuel based plastic. Only 1 percent of the world’s plastic is bio-based but most of it is “partially composed of fossil-based plastic,” Greenpeace said. Aguilar also argued that bioplastics “don’t decompose in nature.”
Biodegradable food packaging seems to offer the best of all worlds — convenience and an environmentally friendly waste product. However, recent studies have shown that compostable food containers, as well as paper plates and fast-food containers, often contain short-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, to repel water and grease.
Indeed, some biodegradable and compostable (EN 13432) materials may also affect bio-waste treatment negatively. Composting or anaerobic digestion processes that aim at producing high quality organic fertilisers have a strict limit in physical contaminants, regardless of whether they are biodegradable in theory or not. Residues of plastics in the digestate and compost can cause mechanical trouble to equipment used in agriculture. Given the difficulty of distinguishing between biodegradable and compostable plastics and conventional plastics, even if they are correctly disposed of by households, they are likely to be sorted out at the composting plant and sent for thermal recovery or disposal, which has a negative influence on the carbon footprint.
This new research makes it clear that the term ‘biodegradable plastic’ has the potential to confuse consumers, leading them to believe that the bag will quickly vanish if thrown away. The scientists warn that if consumers are left with the impression that they are being more responsible by adding biodegradable bags to their recycling bins, that can derail efforts to collect conventional plastic bags to be remanufactured into new bags. Chemical additives in biodegradable plastic can contaminate the mixture, rendering it unusable.
Bioplastic sounds like a welcome eco-alternative to the many plastic products we use daily. But the reality isn’t so simple.
Moreover, existing biodegradability standards and test methods for aquatic environments do not involve toxicity testing or account for the potentially adverse ecological impacts of carrier bags, plastic additives, polymer degradation products or small (microscopic) plastic particles that can arise via fragmentation
2019 MEDIA
A Biodegradable Label Doesn’t Make It So
Biodegradable plastic: A false promise?
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