Bioplastics And Why It's The Future of Plastic Food Packaging
No one can deny that plastic's reputation is anything but positive among the vast majority of today's population. Indeed, the unstoppable rise of the sustainability movement has put much pressure on organisations and less environmentally-conscious people alike to reconsider their stance and ultimately favour plastic alternatives where possible.
However, given plastic's unparalleled versatility, cost-effectiveness, and high durability, it is not as easy to phase out all plastic products entirely. In this pursuit to lessen our dependence on plastic while retaining its renowned qualities, mankind's brightest came up with an eco-friendly alternative in the form of bioplastics.
What Are Bioplastics?
Bioplastics are plastic materials created from biological substances instead of petroleum, with the most popular being the sugar present in plants like potatoes, sugar beets, sugarcane, and wheat. Unlike conventional plastics, bioplastics are inherently renewable since they are entirely manufactured from natural, plant-based materials.
Although the process of making bioplastics differs significantly from conventional plastics, they still share similar characteristics and properties with oil-based plastics minus the environmental drawbacks. Therefore, it is easy to see why bioplastics are well-received by green-minded consumers and should be a no-brainer for eco-conscious businesses.
Are Biodegradable Plastics and Bioplastics the Same?
The terms biodegradable plastics and bioplastics are commonly used interchangeably, but it is vital to note that they are not the same. The former is made with petroleum-based materials that are not inherently biodegradable, while the latter is derived from plant-based materials that decompose naturally under specific conditions.
What makes oil-based plastics more biodegradable are additives like starch that significantly improve their biodegradation properties, making them slightly better for the environment. Since you can expect virtually the same performance from both kinds of plastics, you might be wondering which one comes out on top in terms of environmental benefits.
Are Bioplastics Better for the Environment?
As you may have guessed, bioplastics are the clear winner in terms of sustainability since biodegradable plastics are still petroleum-based at the end of the day. Bioplastics are not just free of harmful substances but also do not break down into hazardous microplastics that are now virtually everywhere, according to recent reports. Lastly, biodegradable plastics cannot be recycled in the same way bioplastics can.
4 Main Advantages of Bioplastics
Bioplastics bring many benefits to the table that make them the most compelling choice of packaging for forward-thinking businesses:
1. Fewer Carbon Emissions
Bioplastics generate significantly fewer greenhouse gasses than conventional plastics over their lifespan. Besides producing fewer emissions than other types of plastic, bioplastics also require less energy to make and emit less carbon when processed as waste than generic mixed plastic waste.
2. Less Plastic Pollution
Since bioplastics are compostable, they require less recycling, which reduces the general amount of waste that needs to be managed. All that remains after using a bioplastic cup or take away box are its natural components, which bring the added benefit of leaving no chemicals or toxins behind, so it does not add to waste pollution and atmospheric pollution.
3. Make Better Use of Natural Resources
The earth does not hold an infinite supply of crude oil left, and based on our current consumption levels, we may only have around 47 years left before the supply runs out. Also, hydrocarbon gas liquids account for 18% of the world's total oil consumption, which is used in the production of plastics, among other things. A mass adoption of bioplastics could very well curb humanity's oil consumption and enable us to make better use of our non-renewable resources.
4. Better for Business
Many studies point to modern consumers being willing to pay more for sustainable products and are less likely to purchase something if its packaging or manufacturing process is unsustainable. This makes bioplastic one of the best options for eco-conscious businesses, which is further backed by the expected exponential growth of the market for bioplastics as renowned brands gradually switch to this revolutionary plastic alternative.
Conclusion
Bioplastics are a highly innovative solution to the world's problematic reliance on conventional plastics. With its array of environmental benefits and matching performance with petroleum-based plastics, bioplastic certainly makes a case for why it's the future of various plastic products like food packaging.
For quality plastic food packaging you can depend on to be unparalleled in safety and quality, Supply Smiths is the brand you can trust. We provide a wide range of high-quality yet affordable disposable food packaging for all your takeaway food storage needs, from paper lunch boxes and cutlery to standing zipper pouches and more. No matter if you are looking for a PET round container or a paper box for food, we have it all!
For more information about our products, feel free to check out our extensive online catalogue or reach out to us at any time.