Bioplastics production capacities to grow by more than 400% by 2018

Global bioplastics products capacities are predicted to grow by more than 400% by 2018, according to François de Bie, the chairman of European Bioplastics. de Bie presented European Bioplastics’ annual market data at the 9th European Bioplastics Conference in Brussels.

The data shows that bioplastics production capacity will increase from around 1.6 million tonnes to approximately 6.7 million tonnes by 2018. Biobased, non-biodegradable plastics, such as biobased PE and biobased PET, are gaining the most ground. Flexible and rigid packaging remains by far the leading application field for bioplastics.

Global production capacities of bioplastics, 2012 to 2018.

“Besides this, a decisive growth can be observed in textiles and automotive applications. From functional sports garments with enhanced breathability to fuel lines, bioplastics are constantly spreading into new markets,” said de Bie.

Asia is set to expand its role as a major bioplastics production hub, with around 75% of bioplastics expected to be produced in Asia by 2018. In comparison, Europe will only have 8% of production capacities by this time, but will still be at the forefront of research and development.

Other regions such as the USA and Asia will invest in measures ‘closer to market introduction’, resulting in faster market development than in Europe.

Global production capacities of bioplastics in 2018 by market segment.

“We urge the EU legislators to consider and make efficient use of the immense environmental, economic growth and job creation potential of our industry. In this context, the Circular Economy Package should remain in the commission’s 2015 Work Programme and the Waste Target Review should proceed as planned,” said de Bie.

Global production capacities of bioplastics in 2018 by material type.