U.S. demand for degradable plastics to hit 325 million lbs. in 2014: study

Demand for degradable plastics in the U.S. is forecast to rise 16.6 per cent per year to 325 million lbs. in 2014, and a value of US$380 million, according to a new study by market research firm The Freedonia Group.

According to the “Degradable Plastics” report, polylactic acid (PLA) and starch-based plastics currently dominate the market and both products are expected to see strong growth. PLA will register the faster gains due to increased availability, greater processor familiarity and performance enhancements that will expand potential applications, the study said.

“Opportunities will reflect continued capacity growth, efforts to reduce pollution and US reliance on petroleum products, and consumer demand for sustainable, environmentally friendly packaging and manufactured goods,” the report concluded.

Oxo-biodegradable and photodegradable resins which achieve biodegradability via additives were not covered in the report, except for naturally occurring oxo-biodegradable plastics such as polyethylene oxide.

For more on “Degradable Plastics”, click on this link.