► Articles, Cases & Guides► Bio-based Plastics in Europe

Bio-based plastics have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics, offering a potential solution to plastic pollution and waste management challenges. However, navigating the regulatory landscape surrounding these materials in Europe can be complex. This article aims to shed light on the current situation and prospects for bio-based plastics regulation in the EU.

The Current Landscape:
The European Union (EU) has implemented a comprehensive regulatory framework to address the environmental and sustainability concerns associated with bio-based plastics. This framework aims to promote the use of sustainable bio-based plastics while minimizing their potential negative impacts.

Their aim is to address different aspects. These include:

• EU Taxonomy: This classification system defines sustainable activities, with some bio-based plastics potentially meeting the criteria.
• Single-Use Plastics Directive: This directive restricts certain single-use plastic items, regardless of their material source. Bio-based options intended for single use might still be banned.
• Waste Framework Directive: This directive focuses on waste management and promotes recycling, including bioplastics that meet specific composting standards.

The Policy Framework:

The key EU regulations governing bio-based plastics include:

1. Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 on materials and articles intended to come into contact with food: This regulation establishes general safety requirements for materials and articles intended to come into contact with food, including bio-based plastics. It ensures that these materials do not pose a risk to human health.
2. Regulation (EC) No 2023/2006 on good manufacturing practice for materials and articles intended to come into contact with food: This regulation outlines the good manufacturing practice (GMP) requirements for the production of materials and articles intended to come into contact with food, including bio-based plastics. It ensures that these materials are produced under hygienic and controlled conditions to minimize the risk of contamination.
3. Regulation (EC) No 10/2011 on plastic materials and articles intended to come into contact with food: This regulation sets specific requirements for plastic materials and articles intended to come into contact with food, including bio-based plastics. It covers aspects such as composition, manufacturing, and testing to ensure food safety.
4. Directive 2019/904 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment: This directive, known as the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUP Directive), aims to reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastic products by restricting or prohibiting their use. It includes provisions for bio-based single-use plastics, requiring them to meet certain biodegradability criteria and to be labelled appropriately.
5. Regulation (EU) No 2020/1056 on establishing a framework for the recovery and recycling of waste: This framework regulation aims to promote the recovery and recycling of waste, including plastic waste. It sets targets for recycling rates and establishes a system for traceability and accountability.
6. European Commission Communication on a policy framework for biobased, biodegradable and compostable plastics: This communication provides a comprehensive overview of the EU's policy approach to bio-based plastics, outlining the challenges and opportunities associated with their use and promoting a balanced approach that encourages innovation while minimizing environmental impacts.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

The EU's regulatory framework on bio-based plastics is constantly evolving as new scientific evidence and technologies emerge. The goal is to strike a balance between promoting the development of sustainable bio-based plastics and mitigating their potential negative environmental impacts.
In October 2023, the European Union (EU) made a significant decision regarding bio-based plastics. The EU Commission adopted a proposal that would establish new rules for the labelling and marketing of bio-based, biodegradable, and compostable plastics (BBPs). The proposal aims to provide consumers with clear and accurate information about the environmental performance of these plastics, while also promoting the development and use of truly sustainable alternatives.

The proposal includes the following key elements:

1. Mandatory labelling: All BBPs placed on the EU market would be required to have a standardized label that clearly indicates their bio-based content, biodegradability or compostability, and any relevant environmental certifications.
2. Marketing restrictions: The proposal would introduce restrictions on the use of misleading marketing claims for BBPs. Claims such as "eco-friendly" or "plastic-free" would only be allowed if they can be substantiated by scientific evidence.
3. Harmonized standards: The proposal would establish harmonized standards for the assessment of biodegradability, compostability, and bio-based content of BBPs. This would ensure that consumers can trust that these claims are based on robust and consistent criteria.
4. Monitoring and review: The EU Commission would be responsible for monitoring the implementation of the new rules and reviewing their effectiveness on a regular basis. This would allow for adjustments to be made as needed to ensure that the rules remain fit for purpose.

The current approach presents several challenges:

• Fragmentation: The lack of a single, comprehensive law creates uncertainty for businesses and consumers.
• Greenwashing: Concerns exist regarding misleading claims about bioplastics' environmental benefits.
• Limited Scope: The focus on biodegradability might not address the broader issue of plastic waste generation.

However, there are also opportunities:

• Innovation: Clear regulations can incentivize the development of truly sustainable bio-based plastics with minimal environmental impact.
• Transparency: Standardized labelling will empower consumers to make informed choices.
• Harmonization: A unified European approach can create a level playing field for businesses and promote sustainable practices.

Conclusion: A Dynamic Landscape

The regulation of bio-based plastics in Europe is still evolving. While the current framework provides a foundation, further developments are expected. As technology advances and environmental concerns continue to rise, we can expect stricter regulations and a stronger emphasis on true sustainability in the bioplastics sector. Businesses and consumers alike should stay informed about these ongoing developments to ensure responsible use of these potentially valuable materials.

Overall, the EU's decision on bio-based plastics is a welcome step towards promoting sustainable consumption and production. The new rules are expected to have a positive impact on the environment and provide consumers with the information they need to make informed choices.
In Salbaek Technology Group, we are committed with sustainable materials, and we think this new regulation will bring several advantages for packaging companies and end customers such us:

1. Improved consumer understanding: The mandatory labelling requirements will provide consumers with clear and accurate information about the environmental performance of BBPs. This will help them make informed choices about the products they purchase.
2. Reduced misleading claims: The restrictions on marketing claims will help to reduce misleading or unsubstantiated claims about the environmental benefits of BBPs. This will ensure that consumers are not misled into thinking that these products are more environmentally friendly than they actually are.
3. Promoted innovation: The establishment of harmonized standards will encourage the development of truly sustainable BBPs that meet stringent environmental criteria. This will help to drive innovation in the bioplastics sector.
4. Increased transparency: The proposal will increase transparency throughout the bioplastics value chain, from production to disposal. This will help to identify and address any potential environmental concerns.