As the cost of petroleum-based resins continues to rise and the performance of bioplastics improves, these eco-friendly alternatives are gaining wider acceptance and practical use. This was a key takeaway from the International Conference on the Commercial Production of Biological Raw Materials, which concluded recently. Delegates at the event emphasized that the future growth of the bioplastics market—whether it expands significantly or remains confined to a niche environmental sector—will largely depend on developments over the next one to two years.
The conference also highlighted the growing global interest in bio-resin products. According to Harald Kaeb, chairman of the International Bioplastics Manufacturing and Consumer Industries Association (IBAW), based in Berlin, current global production of bioplastic resins stands at around 800 million pounds. However, with several new projects already announced, this figure is expected to surpass 1.3 billion pounds by 2008. IBAW’s members include major players such as German chemical giant BASF, U.S.-based PolyOne, and consumer goods leaders like Danone in France, Procter & Gamble in the U.S., and Kraft Foods. Notably, companies like Sony and Nestlé are also exploring the use of bioplastics in their product lines.
Greg Bohlmann, head of SRI Consulting, pointed out that prices for two of the most common types of bio-resins—polylactate and aliphatic-aromatic copolyester—have dropped significantly since 1999, bringing them closer to the cost of traditional polyethylene. Since the sharp increase in oil and natural gas prices in 2003, the cost of conventional resins has steadily climbed. Bohlmann noted that price has historically been the main barrier to broader adoption. However, advances in technology are helping to reduce production costs. For example, manufacturers are now using agricultural byproducts like corn, wheat, and rice straw as raw materials, which not only lowers costs but also boosts efficiency and sustainability.
Environmentally friendly bio-resin products are already being used in various applications, including polyurethane roof coatings, water tank top coatings, mattresses, bedding, and towels. These materials offer an attractive alternative for industries looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
In addition, a recent survey conducted by a California-based investment firm involving over 100 U.S. investors and analysts revealed increasing interest in the bioplastics industry. In the second quarter of 2005 alone, venture capital and private equity firms invested $370 million into companies focused on "non-polluting technologies," accounting for approximately 6% of total U.S. venture capital funding. Europe has already seen several successful examples of bioplastics in the market. For instance, demand for the Okopack line of biodegradable cling films, trays, and fruit mesh bags from Dutch packaging distributor NNZ is steadily rising. Some customers choose Okopack products because they are made from renewable materials, while others appreciate their extended freshness properties, regardless of the source.
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