Biodegradable Plastics: Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Traditional Plastics

Plastic is a ubiquitous material used in everyday products from packaging to electronics, but its impact on the environment cannot be ignored. Plastic waste is a major environmental issue that is polluting our oceans, harming wildlife, and contributing to climate change. Biodegradable plastics have emerged as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics, but what exactly are they, and how do they work?

What are Biodegradable Plastics?

Biodegradable plastics are a type of plastic that can break down naturally in the environment, returning to organic compounds. This is achieved through the addition of materials that promote the degradation process, such as starches or cellulose. Unlike traditional plastics, which can take hundreds of years to break down, biodegradable plastics can break down in a matter of months or years.

Types of Biodegradable Plastics

Biodegradable Plastics based on Resources

There are several types of biodegradable plastics, including bioplastics, bio-based plastics, and oxo-biodegradable plastics.

Bioplastics are made from renewable resources, such as corn starch or sugarcane, and are designed to degrade through natural processes. They are commonly used in food packaging, bags, and disposable cutlery.

Bio-based plastics are made from non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels, but are designed to biodegrade. They are commonly used in packaging materials, plastic films, and compostable bags.

Oxo-biodegradable plastics are made from traditional plastics that have been treated with additives that accelerate the breakdown process. They require exposure to sunlight and oxygen to degrade and are commonly used in applications such as bags and packaging materials.

Leading Biodegradable Alternatives to Plastic

There are several types of biodegradable plastics, including thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), and bioplastics.

TPU

TPU is a type of semi-biodegradable plastic that is often used in phone cases and other electronic devices. It is usually made from fossil fuels, but several researchers propose that bio-TPU can be made from renewable resources. Commercially available TPU is generally non-biodegradable and can release toxic chemicals when exposed to UV rays, extreme heat, and other natural conditions. A 100% biodegradable bio-TPU is yet to manufactured, which will biodegrade into soil within 5-8 years depending upon the production process, theoretically. Explore our blog on “Is TPU Actually an Eco-Friendly Alternative to Plastic?” for more information.

PLA

PLA is a bioplastic made from renewable resources such as cornstarch or sugarcane. Due to the biodegradability of PLA, it provides several end-of-life/disposal options, including mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, landfilling, and industrially composting. It is commonly used in food packaging, bags, and disposable cutlery.

PBAT

Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate), PBAT, is a random biodegradable thermoplastic bio-polyester obtained by polycondensation of butanediolh (BDO), adipic acid (AA), and terephtalic acid (PTA). When buried in real soil environments, it breaks down completely and leaves no toxic residues behind. Instead of recycling, PBAT-based compostable bioplastics will decompose due to the action of naturally occurring microorganisms such as fungi, algae, and bacteria. Whether home or commercially composted, the bioplastics will break down without creating methane or emitting any toxins harmful to our environment. However, there’s one caveat with PBAT – it still isn’t fully renewable as it’s partly derived from petrochemicals (or what we commonly refer to as oil), and it is hard and brittle to be directly used. While it’s currently the most preferred solution, we are putting significant research into a more plant-based composition for PBAT that will enhance its renewability. It is often used in bags, packaging, and disposable tableware.

The Benefits of Biodegradable Plastics

The use of biodegradable plastics can have several environmental benefits. By breaking down in the environment, they reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. This can help to reduce the negative impact of plastic pollution on wildlife and marine ecosystems. Biodegradable plastics can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as they produce less carbon dioxide than traditional plastics during the production process.

In addition to their environmental benefits, biodegradable plastics can also have economic benefits. They can help to reduce waste disposal costs, as they can be composted or disposed of through other environmentally friendly methods. Biodegradable plastics can also create new business opportunities for companies that produce them, as the demand for sustainable products continues to grow.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite their benefits, there are several challenges and limitations associated with the use of biodegradable plastics. One of the main challenges is the lack of infrastructure for composting and recycling these materials. The majority of biodegradable plastics require specific conditions to break down, and if they are not disposed of properly, they can still contribute to plastic pollution.

Another limitation is the cost of production. Biodegradable plastics are often more expensive to produce than traditional plastics, which can make them less competitive in the marketplace. However, as demand for sustainable products continues to grow, the cost of production is likely to decrease.

Conclusion

Biodegradable plastics have emerged as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics. They have several environmental benefits, including reducing plastic waste and greenhouse gas emissions. However, there are also challenges and limitations associated with their use, such as the lack of infrastructure for composting and recycling. Despite these challenges, the use of biodegradable plastics can help to create a more sustainable future by reducing the negative impact of plastic waste on the environment.

Meet Ecocase

Ecocase: Inspired from nature, for earth

Organic Materials

Made from fibres and field residues of plants like corn, sugarcane, wheat, etc. 0% TPU

Circular Product

From nature to nature. Ecocase decomposes to basic elements like CO2, water, etc.

Safe For Earth

No-toxic by-products. 100% free from mercury, phthalates, lead, BPA, etc.

Making the Switch to Sustainable Phone Covers

Switching to sustainable phone covers is a small yet impactful step towards reducing our ecological footprint. By opting for biodegradable options, we can help combat plastic pollution and protect the environment.

We are proud to say that our Ecocase is a sustainable and durable solution to mobile protection. It is heavier on protection with military-grade drop protection and lighter on nature as it is plant-based and decomposes faster than an eggshell.