Potential value chains for bio-based plastics

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Multiple initiatives are needed to increase the share of bio-based plastics

Today, certain conditions are in place that could contribute to the EU’s target of 20% bio-based plastics. However, larger and more numerous investments in material, market, and technology development are needed if this goal is to be achieved on time.

At present, there is a shortage of suitable bio-based feedstocks to meet existing needs and demand for bio-based plastics. The EU’s objective of having 20% of all plastics be bio-based by 2030 remains far from reach. Based on expected production capacity and planned investments in bio-based plastics, only around 1% is projected to be achieved.

In this project, we mapped available and suitable bio-based feedstocks, including industrial by-products and residual streams, from both national and European perspectives. We also identified the downstream processing steps required to produce the monomers in demand and evaluated and compared these processes from a systems perspective. A survey involving approximately 70 respondents examined perceptions of available bio-based feedstocks and their suitability for the production of bio-based plastics.

Conclusions from the different parts of the project

There is significant potential to use lignin and other forest-based feedstocks for the production of bio-based plastics in Sweden.

Greater collaboration is needed to overcome economic barriers associated with the high cost of materials.

To increase the market share of both bio-based drop-in materials and bio-based plastics, prices must become more competitive. Secondary raw materials and adapted recycling systems could contribute to this.

Despite large-scale production, PLA (polylactic acid), which is currently produced from first-generation feedstocks, remains more expensive than fossil-based plastic alternatives. Further investments are needed in both technology development and infrastructure.

Overall, there are several challenges associated with increasing the share of bio-based plastics. A general but crucial driver is increased demand, which is influenced by a range of factors. Most importantly, the current techno-economic conditions are unfavorable, as bio-based plastics are often more expensive than their fossil-based counterparts. In addition, there is an ongoing debate regarding resource efficiency, where questions surrounding the optimal use of biomass and the results of life cycle assessments (LCAs) for bio-based plastics require further examination.

To enable a large-scale transition, targeted policy measures are needed to stimulate the development of bio-based alternatives. Furthermore, increased investment in research is essential, particularly in areas such as the utilization of second- and third-generation biomass, improved production processes, and the establishment of long-term, stable, and sustainable value chains.