The market for bioplastics and biopolymers is projected to expand from US$ 6,703.53 million in 2022 to US$ 14,639.14 million by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.5% during the period from 2022 to 2030.
In the biomedical sector, bioplastics find extensive applications, including in skin grafts for burns and wounds, scaffolding for tissue engineering, bone repair, nerve and gum reconstruction, drug delivery systems, and promoting blood vessel growth as well as stent coverings. Additionally, biodegradable bioplastic sutures, commonly known as stitches, are increasingly utilized by healthcare professionals in surgical settings. Biodegradable plastics are also integral to the production of medical devices. For example, bioplastics are used to manufacture pins, tacks, and screws that assist in bone healing during reconstructive surgeries. Furthermore, containers for medications and creams can be made from bioplastics. In dentistry, bioplastics derived from nanocellulose have been employed in the regeneration of dental tissues in humans, sourced from microbial cellulose produced by the Glucanacetobacter xylinus strain. Various biodegradable plastics, including PLA, PCL, poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), and poly-hydroxyalkanoate (PHA), along with their copolymers, are utilized in human-centric biomedical applications. PLA, in particular, is favored in medical contexts due to its biocompatibility and ability to dissolve safely in the human body, breaking down into non-toxic compounds through hydrolysis of its ester backbone. As conventional plastics are anticipated to rise in cost due to dwindling raw material availability, PLA and its copolymers are increasingly being used in wound management applications, such as treating dental injuries, creating surgical sutures, and minimizing postoperative adhesions. Additionally, PLA is being integrated into drug delivery systems due to its effective encapsulation capabilities, low toxicity, and biocompatibility. Consequently, these factors are expected to create significant opportunities for growth in the bioplastics and biopolymers market in the coming years.
The bioplastics and biopolymers market is categorized by end-use industries, including packaging, consumer goods, automotive, textiles, construction, medical, agriculture, and others. The packaging sector accounted for the largest market share in 2022. The consumer goods segment also represents a significant area of interest within the bioplastics and biopolymers market. Bioplastics are widely utilized in various consumer products, such as biodegradable utensils, dinnerware, toothbrushes, egg cartons, razor handles, and toys. A substantial portion of consumer electronic devices is made from bioplastics and biopolymers. Factors such as rising disposable incomes, shifting lifestyles, and changing consumer preferences have been pivotal in driving growth within the consumer goods sector. Moreover, advancements in digital technology and a heightened emphasis on sustainable and healthy practices have notably influenced the consumer goods market.
Regionally, the bioplastics and biopolymers market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), the Middle East & Africa (MEA), and South & Central America. In 2022, the Asia Pacific region held the largest market share and is expected to exhibit the highest CAGR from 2022 to 2030, primarily due to rapid industrialization in the area.
Key players in the bioplastics and biopolymers market include Arkema SA, BASF SE, Mitsui Chemicals Inc, Cardia Bioplastics Australia Pty Ltd, Braskem SA, Saudi Basic Industries Corp, Corbion NV, Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corp, Novamont SpA, and Eastman Chemical Co. These companies are focused on developing innovative and cost-effective products to meet the growing demands of consumers and to enhance their market presence.
The overall size of the bioplastics and biopolymers market has been determined through a combination of primary and secondary research methods. The research process commenced with comprehensive secondary research utilizing both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data relevant to the market. Additionally, numerous primary interviews were conducted with industry stakeholders to validate the findings and gain deeper analytical insights. Participants in this research included vice presidents, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers, as well as external consultants such as valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the bioplastics and biopolymers sector.