What is a bioplastic? And why do we need them?

16-Jan-2019

From personal care ingredients to cosmetic packaging, traditional plastic materials are under scrutiny. So what alternatives do biomaterials provide?

What is a bioplastic? And why do we need them?

Cosmetics Business asks what exactly are bioplastics and biomaterials, and what are their benefits and limitaions?


Over to the experts…

What is a bioplastic? And why do we need them?

David Newman, Managing Director, The Bio-Based and Biodegradable Industries Association (BBIA)

Non-biodegradable microplastics in cosmetic products are a major cause for concern. Everyday, tonnes of plastic ‘dust’ resulting from the use of personal care products (ie microplastics with an exfoliating function for shower gels and various rinse-off cleansing products) are poured into the world’s seas, together with microplastics used in face and body creams, sunscreens and make-up.

The EU is looking into measures to limit the use of microplastics in cosmetics, already in force in some countries, while various solutions are available for rinse-off products. However, sound and truly sustainable alternatives are urgently needed for the more complex leave-on products.

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In this respect, biomaterials are...

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