What we call bioplastics?
Bioplastics comprise the families of bio-based and non-biodegradable (e.g. Bio-polyethylene), bio-based and biodegradable (e.g. PLA) and non-bio-based but biodegradable (e.g. PBAT) materials. You can learn more about this in our video (in Spanish) “Introducción a los plásticos biodegradables“.
What we call biodegradable?
Biodegradable plastics are designed to biodegrade by the action of living organisms in a specific medium (water, soil, compost) under certain conditions and over different periods of time. Third party labels have to certify that the particular material is biodegradable according to European standards.
What do we call biobased?
Biobased plastics means that the carbon atoms in the molecule chains are taken from nature itself and are therefore “bio” and not derived from petroleum. Currently, biobased plastics are obtained from different carbohydrates such as sugar, starch, protein, cellulose, lignin, biofats or oils. For example, sugar cane is processed to make ethylene, which in turn is used to make polyethylene. Starch can be processed to produce lactic acid and then polylactic acid (PLA), which is biobased and biodegradable.
What do we call recycled?
Recycled plastics are those that have been used and returned to the production chain, all plastics are very easily recyclable, only in cases of mixing with other plastics and/materials, the recycling process can be complicated. Good design and management is ideal to ensure the circular economy.