Study predicts sharp increase in bioplastics production, leading by Asia

European Bioplastics’ annual market data predicts that, the bioplastic plastic mould production will greatly increase in four years, reach 6.7 million tons in 2018. The data was announced on the 9th European Bioplastics Conference in Brussels, the prediction is basing on the 2013 output 1.6million tons. The study was compiled in cooperation with scientific partners the Institute for Bioplastics and Biocomposites in Hannover, Germany and the Nova-Institute in Hürth.

Biobased, non-biodegradable plastics, such as biobased polyethylene and biobased PET, is appearing the biggest increase, and local produced renewable and compostable plastics are more likely to be benefit by the new European union   directive on the reduction of shopping bags.

European Bioplastics chairman François de Bie said: “Flexible and rigid package remains by far the leading application field for bioplastics.”

"Besides this, a decisive growth can be observed in textiles and automotive injection mold applications. From functional sports garments with enhanced breathability to fuel lines — bioplastics are constantly spreading into new markets.”

The study found that Asia will expand its role as major production hub. Most of the currently planned projects are being implemented in Thailand, India and China.

"We urge the EU legislators to consider and make efficient use of the immense environmental, economic growth and job creation potential of our industry. In this context, the Circular Economy Package should remain in the Commission’s 2015 Work Program and the Waste Target Review should proceed as planned,” de Bie added.