This is because they help reduce plastic waste and safeguard the environment by breaking it down quickly. The goal should be to reduce overall plastic consumption. The polyethylene created through the manufacturing cycle using natural items may contain high levels of manganese, which can stop breaking down when you begin the composting process for these items. Biodegradable plastics are designed to biodegrade in a specific medium (water, soil, compost) under certain conditions and in varying periods of time. E. Recycling challenges. This can reduce the amount of greenhouse gases that come from producing them, which is an obvious benefit to our environment. We must also use water resources to crow the crops needed for the raw materials as well. The process requires comprehensive equipment and composers that many manufacturers cannot afford. Safety helmets and medical devices also rely on plastics. How does . They can also reduce the amount of energy needed to produce them in factories. The Growing Problem Of Plastic Waste And How To Recycle Plastic Bags, Are Clear Plastic Food Containers Recyclable? Because corn products represent 40% of the U.S.-based bioplastics industry, so it is notable that one acre requires 3,000 gallons of water for each bushel of yield. The Guardian also reported in 2009 that one brand of biodegradable plastic contained high levels of lead and cobalt, which raised questions about the potential toxicity of what gets left behind after the decomposition process. Biodegradable plastics require less energy during the manufacturing cycle. The use of biodegradable plastics is becoming increasingly important as traditional plastic continues to harm the environment. Non-degradable plastics form a significant component of waste in landfills. While it decomposes naturally, biodegradable plastics behave like other plastics when in the ocean. Oxo-degradable plastic has a long time span of usability. The continued destruction and pollution have caused this slow death to speed up to the point where we are seeing some of the long-term effects sooner and that has many people worried. Benefits of oxo-biodegradable plastic There is no difference in print quality, texture, or strength between regular and oxo-biodegradable plastic. It takes less energy to manufacture. Plant based, biodegradable plastics are on the rise and for good reason. Unless we can eliminate chemicals from the entire manufacturing chain, there will always be a risk of pollution to consider with biodegradables. Although it would be ignorant to say that biodegradable plastics are 100% safe, they are usually viewed as a product that supports sustainable business practices by consumers and those in the C-Suite. The manufacturing process of biodegradable plastics requires fewer amounts of energy. 10. Because of this energy savings, the long-term cost of using biodegradables could be substantially less than traditional plastics especially if the cleanup costs from plastic pollution are added to that calculation. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a key ingredient in resin and plastic manufacturing. However, some bioplastics are not fully using natural ingredients. Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. It will last many years if stored indoors. That would create fewer pressures on the overall waste stream. Many of the advantages of bioplastics rely on a net savings being created by a reducing of energy, water, or greenhouse gas emissions. Most companies these days are jumping on the go green bandwagon and looking for ways to promote their plastic businesses by using certain words and phrases in their corporate mission statements and sales literature. Poland Spring is reducing the number of plastic components that they use for their packaging needs. Knowing the advantages of the options can help you address the plastic issue. Biodegradable plastics can either be injection molded (disposable cutlery, medical parts, rigid packaging, etc.) By 2050, we could create a system that is emissions neutral if we make this technology a priority. Biodegradable reduce the amount of plastic ending in a landfill. 5. We are producing more waste plastic today than ever before in human history. Making biodegradables a top priority could become a moneymaking tool for the country that can perfect this technology first. With the increased usage of plastics, people will need more spaces for landfills. Greenhouse gases, emissions from vehicles, unsustainable buildings, and cities are some of the areas where we could see more being done to help with producing a better world. Science Fair Project Ideas for Kids, Middle & High School Students, Environmental Protection Agency: Plastics. In terms of versatility, it really is exceptional, not only is it safe for the environment, but it can be crafted into several products: Straws . That means shareholders, executives, and employees all stand to gain from the potential for higher profits. Here are some of them: Biodegradable plastics can pose contamination risks to both environment and humans. Biodegradable plastic bags have a number of advantages over conventional bags. Composting goes much slower when the weather turns colder. MaterBi also elicited increases in total soluble solids, polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant . However, these bacteria will turn up their nose at traditional plastic. When bioplastics enter the conventional plastic recycling stream they may contaminate the recycling process. a set time. In spite of the U.S. producing more plastic debris than ever before, recycling rates are declining. For instance, these plastics cannot decompose in the ocean and other marine habitats. Historically, additives are blended into plastics to stabilize products against degradation, which is why blending additives into plastic products to promote their degradation (i.e. This process turns them into polymers that become useful for the industry. Environmentally . The current state of our plastic problem is a problem, and something needs to be done about it. They reduce use of fossil fuel resources, producing a smaller carbon footprint. 5. When PBAT is mixed with NuPlastiQ GP, it will also biodegrade in marine environments. Though the initial investment in the biodegradable plastics might be slightly higher, in the long run biodegradable plastics involve a lesser amount of energy in its manufacturing process and do not need fossil fuels to be recycled. Our plastic scientists are available to advise and assist plastic product manufacturers evaluate the lifecycle of their products and to advise on ways to make products truly more environmentally-friendly. Made from bio-based sources such as corn, wheat, sugar-cane, petroleum-based . As the demand for biodegradable plastics increases, they will contribute to save our planet. Biodegradable plastics do not guarantee a net savings. That figure represents about 32 million tons of waste each year, with only 9% of that amount directed into recycling programs. However, scientists came up with a solution through the invention of biodegradable plastics. The landfills occupy land you utilize for other uses, such as residential houses, agriculture, or industries. Waste, like trash from products, can end up in our environment and can harm us, especially our health. Your email address will not be published. Your IP: The difference between bioplastic and biodegradable plastics is the material used to make them. Both types of biodegradable plastics are compostable, but only the former can be recycled. With the increased use and manufacturing of bioplastics, we can expect a greener and a more sustainable future for our planet. Lets check this out! Biodegradable packaging materials are now more popular among brands and consumers. The Coca-Cola Company has already created a bio-plastic bottle that they can use with their beverages. Other forms of degradable plastic are not. Our planet is important. Reduction in Carbon Emission. Because some biodegradable plastics produce methane when decomposing in landfills, it is possible that some of these natural plastic items could be creating a more harmful effect on the environment than if we stuck to the traditional manufacturing cycle. What Is Recyclable Plastic And How Can It Be Recycled? We consume over 100 million tons of plastic each year, which means the standard 5:1 ratio of production indicates that this industry produces 500 million tons of carbon dioxide that goes into our atmosphere each year. With zero oil-based content, it does not require refining processes that result in the release of high carbon dioxide to the environment. So, the non-renewable material still can harm the environment. Its polymers occur naturally. Plastics have been in the world of packaging for a very long time. Below are four reasons why biodegradable plastics benefit the environment and help save natural resources. The formation of traditional plastic involves use of carbon in an excessive amount. In the Evidence Review Report, a working group of leading experts nominated by academies across Europe conclude that biodegradable plastic has a role to play in reducing the accumulation of plastics in the environment. This aspect is beneficial to the land and environment. At least 85% of the 40 million tons of municipal plastic waste anticipated to be produced in the U.S. in 2021 was dumped there, according to Statista. 3. . While not every form of landfill-friendly biodegradable plastic will completely break down, any reduction in the space required to dispose of this material will ease pressures on the waste stream. The end-products of bio plastic also cause less harm to the environment as compared to the traditional plastic. This is achieved when the bacteria and fungi present in the surrounding environment naturally metabolizes the plastics. Traditional plastic products come from the heating and treatment of oil molecules. Not only can biodegradable plastic be recycled, but it can be recycled more times than normal plastics. 8. In contrast to conventional plastic, which can take hundreds of years to completely degrade, biodegradable plastics need only three to six months to do so, according to BBC Science Focus. While reducing landfill space may be a benefit, the tradeoff may be nullified due to this drawback. Bioplastics are not as toxic as other plastics. This means that manufacturers cannot produce biodegradable plastics without incentives from the government or other conservation authorities. Biodegradable plastics can either be injection molded (disposable cutlery, medical parts, rigid packaging, etc.) That's preferable to using freshly grown crops as a source material, because it spares plants that could instead be used for food, at the same time as using up waste plastic. While in some cases, the bioplastic material mixes with traditional plastic to give products more strength, any percentage that comes from a renewable source saves petroleum. Plastics are widely used for the manufacturing of packaging materials because of their performance and ease in production. 1. Although recycling would be a good way to reduce the plastics in the landfills, currently "only 5% out of 1 trillion plastic bags, annually produced in the US alone, are being recycled" (Sivan, 2011). Not only that, but so much of plastic is disposed of. Even with the downsides of using biodegradable plastic like the costs, it would still be more beneficial to switch to biodegradable plastic rather than continuing to use plastics like how we have been for many years. Traditional plastics come from heating and treating oil molecules until they turn into polymers. Some solutions include electric cars, having more green spaces, or having more recycling and trash pickup initiatives, all of which will help us with creating a better and sustainable planet. Biodegradable plastics or bioplastics are made from natural plant-based raw materials that enable the natural decomposition process. The decomposing organisms can easily break up the makeup materials of this type of plastic. It is true that the production of biodegradable plastics requires. When you dispose of them and they begin to decompose in some way, then that gas is released into the atmosphere. The primary aim of biodegradable plastic is to reduce the environmental impact of plastic pollution. If we throw out these plastics in the landfill last we would the traditional items, then they will follow a path that is similar to the non-biodegradable option. However, if you would like to share the information in this article, you may use the link below: https://www.environmentalbusinessreview.com/news/environmental-benefits-of-biodegradable-plastics-nwid-86.html, We use cookies on this website to enhance your user experience. Oxo-biodegradable plastic is reusable and recyclable. Many people are looking at the way we eat, drive, produce, etc., and are coming up with sustainable ways to do them. You can use less energy to create a large amount of plastic within a short duration. The requirement to properly dispose of biodegradable plastic products automatically reduces the amount of waste. However, the starch (wheat starch, cassava starch, etc.) What is the aim of biodegradable plastic? Once the natural materials are turned into polymers, they can work with the ones that were manufactured using oil molecules. Bagasse Products An Essential Step Towards Earth! Biodegradable plastics offer reduces carbon dioxide levels. non-toxic as they dont contain chemicals, Biodegradable Toilet Paper: The Environmentally Friendly Alternative, Biodegradable Sunscreen: The Reef-Friendly Skincare Product, Eco-Tips: How To Dispose of Light Bulbs Safely, Eco-Tips: How To Dispose of Batteries Properly, Eco-Tips: How To Dispose of Cooking Oil Safely, Make Your Restaurant Nature-Friendly With The Best Eco-Friendly Products. Biodegradable plastics consume less energy during manufacturing. Click to reveal There are many benefits of using biodegradable plastics. It means that a bioplastic can contain 0 percent bio-based materials. Biodegradable plastics have ignited a revolt against ubiquitous plastic bags and by using them one can effectively contribute in conserving non-renewable resources of Earth that are depleting at a high-speed. That means many of the advantages that are possible with this product disappear in equatorial and far-northern climates. Biodegradables eliminate these substances from being needed. 40% of all plastic is used for packaging, used one time and then discarded. Biodegradable plastics require the weather to cooperate with their disposal. This includes financial losses to the fishing and tourism sectors as well as expenses for beach cleanup. Biodegradable plastics can be easily recycled to avoid the increasing number of plastic waste and emissions of greenhouse gases from the production by the industry. These items are finding their way into our oceans and even contaminating our drinking water. Advantages of Biodegradable Plastics. The main costs when looking to produce these plastics is the equipment used to make them. Their recycling is safe and easy as they do not release toxic chemicals into the environment. Biodegradable plastics may reduce the amount of recycling that we can do. 2. Biodegradable plastic is not a solution for overconsumption. 6. Suppose you are thinking to change your petroleum based plastics to bioplastics, the following points will give you better understanding: Biodegradable plastic is a type of plastic that is intended to disintegrate when it comes into contact with microbes. Because these items do not typically exist with biodegradable items, we would be able to take advantage of this supplemental benefit immediately. Being made from plants and crops like corn or soybean, there can be the risk of contamination from pesticides and other harmful products that are used on these crops. First, the biomass used to produce biobased plastics must be sustainably . Any solution could and would be a boon to helping fight for a better future for our planet and help make our operations and the lives of people more sustainable and healthier. Hence, they are not a solution to the ocean pollution problems. 18 billion pounds of plastic waste flows into the ocean every year. With the environment as it is now, we need to come up with ways that help the environment and ways that can leave a path for our future generations. Hence, plastic, defined as biodegradable, is made of molecule that can break down naturally by the action of micro-organisms. This is very beneficial to us now more than ever. Also, the aspect lowers the amount of heat released to the environment. The product is still single use plastic Producing and recycling biodegradable can be expensive. Biodegradable plastics come at a higher capital cost. As you can see, biodegradable plastic is extremely significant and proves to be of great importance when it comes to reducing waste and helping the environment. 1, M.I.D.C. Lower petroleum consumption is also another benefit when considering biodegradable plastics. That means we can mix the traditional manufacturing cycle with the natural one, reducing the percentage that comes from fossil fuels. For now, our biodegradable facial sheet masks are: Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol and our NEW Cica + Niacinamide. Fig. Pollution from the different industries and the ignorance that we as humans have done over the last century or two has caused so much damage that many experts in the field think that we are too far out to stop the planet from dying. Hence, this type of plastic enhances environmental protection by lowering carbon emissions. Biodegradable plastics use natural products; therefore, the use of bioplastic can profoundly reduce the amount of petroleum used and consequently lessen its environmental hazards. In addition, it generates 68 percent fewer greenhouse gases during its manufacture, representing a significant environmental benefit. Both are considered to be endocrine disruptors that are toxic to the reproduction cycle of humans. Using a material flow analysis, the challenges of the plastic market are highlighted, and with it the . On the other hand, biodegradable plastics are petroleum-based plastics with an additive that harnesses their decomposition. This amount is 68% less than that of traditional plastics. Further study will ensure that the bacteria and the byproducts produced are nontoxic, but this could represent one possible piece of the solution to the world's solid waste problems. This is very beneficial to us now more than ever. Some farmers use herbicides and insecticides, or other contaminant chemicals on these plants. Natural materials break down into their fundamental components and are then reused to create new things. Reduces Waste. Biodegradable Plastic Bag Manufacturing Process: Compostable plastic granules are used as raw material and are given as feed to the hopper in which they are melted into liquid form. But should premature degradation occur, resulting in bottle failure, significant liability issues could result. Biodegradable plastics are commonly used for disposable items, such as packaging, cutlery, and food service containers. Besides, there are many benefits using biodegradable plastics. Returns to nature within . Furthermore, since the materials used to create biodegradable plastics are plant-based, minimal carbon is emitted during the composting process. Biodegradable plastic's ability to break down within a year means it has several advantages over traditional plastics: It decreases the waste sent to landfills or incinerators. Biodegradable & compostable plastic breaks down only in a period of a few months, depending on the material used to make the bio plastic and the method of disposal. Required fields are marked *. So what are the pros and cons of biodegradable plastic or bioplastics? You can play a part in cleaning up our planet, now and in the future. Recycling biodegradable plastics is easy. One major problem with plastic is that it often takes an extremely long time for it to break down once discarded, leading to massive problems with landfill waste and posing a danger to wildlife. Biodegradable plastics have many advantages, which include: 1. When you toss traditional plastic into the trash, it has a. 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