Alder BioInsights News Review, Biobased Products 158, May 2025

Foreword

In this issue of our Newsletter, we explore cutting-edge research and development (R&D) efforts that are redefining the possibilities of biobased polymers, alongside market developments that are accelerating their adoption across industries and consumer markets.

A cost benefit analysis of compostable plastics commissioned by TIPA Compostable Packaging and performed by eunomia modelled two scenarios for implementing compostable plastics in the UK against a baseline scenario which foresees no changes. Scenario 1 focuses on banning conventional plastics in specific products like carrier bags and labels, while Scenario 2 explores higher penetration of compostable packaging in flexible packaging, sorted through dry recycling using near-infrared (NIR) sorting technology. Both scenarios indicate a net increase in recycling, primarily driven by reduced contamination in food waste sent to anaerobic digestion (AD), leading to more material being sent to in-vessel composting instead of residual waste. The analysis suggests potential annual financial savings for local authorities primarily due to reduced gate fees for AD facilities, as less contaminated food waste leads to lower disposal costs. Environmentally, both scenarios show significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, mainly by displacing the incineration of conventional plastics. The report recommends short-term exemption of compostables from EPR fees and recyclability assessments to support industry growth, followed by medium-term policy alignment with conventional plastics and further research, and long-term investment in sorting infrastructure to maximise benefits…