Are Bioplastics Really Better?

With labels like "made from plants" and "biodegradable" and "compostable plastic", it's no wonder we're all confused. We're breaking down bioplastic and if it really is any better than traditional plastic.

Video by @StoryofStuff and @beyondplastics

#bioplastic #compostable #plastic #plasticpollution #biodegradable #packaging #zerowaste #recycle #environment #sustainability

[dhananjaykathavale]

In India, the story is different, we need much awareness here

[bobsacamano]

The standard test for compostability is ASTM D6400 which companies need to receive certification from the BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) for in order to label their products as compostable.

Further, you mention they don't biodegrade in the real world like organic matter... well, no. They're tested to biodegrade in a commercial composting facility, so ensuring there is sufficient infrastructure to collect, transport and accept them commercially is crucial to successful end of life of these products.

These aren't designed to simply 'replace' single use plastics, but to act as a collection vehicle to get the 30+% of food waste going to landfill out of there and into a composting facility where it will break down and can be used for ag and infrastructure projects, thus reducing it's GHG emission into the environment as methane while extending the useful life of landfills.

Reduce, reuse first, yes. But slamming a technology that works in an effort to convince people that 100% of plastics can be converted to reusables is silly. Most problems don't have a black and white answer, and when people treat them like they do, there is often ignorance involved.

[chicorysweet]

mannnn i knew my "composting bags" were bogus. they look just like the scrap pieces in the video 👿👿👿
on the other hand, i DO like the look of bioplastics/recycled plastics in things like dinnerware or small furniture. it may not be a bad alternative for items that dont have the longest life span in the first place, just not single-use items.
its not working perfect at the moment, but its definitely still got potential, im curious to see how itll all fit together in "closing the loop".

[JugglinJellyTake]

Supermarkets in the UK will not accept food from growers that use municipal compost on their land, even if it is PAS100 standard.

Bio plastics are no different to fossil plastics with the exception that they are not from fossil fuels (directly) and they compete for land and food / habitat.

Given that bio plastics are largely single use, produce microplasticss and require the same plasticisers then there is no real win here.

Abolishing single use items is vital in reducing waste. Deposit return schemes and refills are the solutions required.

[theokirkley]

Instead of taking responsibility for our plastic waste, we demand that corporations change what they offer. And then we get mad when they don't have the perfect thing. No, just feel your guilt, cry about the reasons you chose to do what you did, release the pain, and take responsibility for your actions

[shalinisoni]

omg! I hope like plastic, bioplastic does not put us in another trouble.

[aiqinsmith]

Way too much packaging, way too much trash!

[zunedog]

Plastic that goes to a landfil is a non-issue.

[johnserino]

We should all start bringing our own plates and utensils into a to-go restaurant.
Brilliant.