Bioplastics: Need to be Understood

Bioplastics broadly include bio(mass)-derived plastics and biodegradable plastics. Being sourced from carbohydrate-rich biomass, they align with sustainable development and offer an option to quick-fix our waste problem — a good alternative to indestructible, fossil-derived plastics.

However, a common misconception is their biodegradability. The biodegradability of a polymer depends on its chemical structure, not on its source of origin: all biodegradable plastics are bioplastics, but not all bioplastics are biodegradable.

These plastics are not new in India. Supermarkets, online platforms and take-aways offer a mix of alternatives with contentious catch phrases like "not plastic", "made of corn starch", "oxo-biodegradable", "biodegradable" or "compostable". They all sound green — but these terms cannot be used interchangeably.

Oxo-biodegradables, a greenwashed alternative, are essentially oil-derived plastics with additives that accelerate degradation on exposure to UV, heat and oxygen. They are considered to contribute to microplastics, and have been banned in the European Union.

"Biodegradable" is a vague term with no defined time frame — given enough time, all matter biodegrades (say, 500 years for conventional plastics). In contrast, compostable plastics are designed to completely biodegrade under controlled conditions within a defined period, regulated by standards such as ASTM International, European Norms and DIN CERTCO.

According to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, manufacturers or sellers of compostable carry bags or products must obtain a certificate from the CPCB before marketing them. Such compostable plastics are specified by IS/ISO 17088 under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).