European Bioplastics (EUBP), the leading voice for the bioplastics industry in Europe, has openly welcomed the initiative by the European Commission to establish a comprehensive policy framework tailored for biobased, biodegradable, and compostable plastics. As highlighted in a recent EUBP statement, the Communication from the Commission offers an in-depth examination of the sector and acknowledges the materials' capabilities to provide significant environmental advantages.
Addressing Misconceptions and Gaps in the Policy Framework
However, EUBP has pointed out that certain persistent misconceptions continue to mar the policy, specifically concerning land-use impact, the assessment of environmental benefits, the supposed risks of cross-contamination in waste streams, and the intricacies of biodegradability in various settings.
The organization believes the policy framework falls short in recognizing and promoting the primary benefits of biobased plastics, including the sustainable use of renewable resources and the significant contribution these materials make towards transitioning to a circular and carbon-neutral bioeconomy. Of particular concern is the framework's restrictive view on biodegradability, which neglects the substantial potential of industrially compostable plastics to further circular economy efforts and stifles innovation within the sector.
Implications for the Future of Bioplastics in Europe
EUBP fears that these issues in the policy framework may impede the European Commission from fully committing to the shift towards biobased products, which is crucial for Europe to decrease reliance on fossil resources and meet its rigorous climate and circularity objectives. Furthermore, there is trepidation that this current stance could hinder rather than foster innovation and the market potential for sustainable material solutions within Europe.
Learn More About Bioplastics
For those interested in understanding the benefits of bioplastics and gaining insight into the criticisms of the Commission’s Communication, additional information is available on the EUBP's website and through an informative document provided by EUBP.
