Have you ever heard of PLA?
If you’re working outside of the packaging industry, the different types of plastics are probably not what you’re discussing over breakfast or even around the boardroom table.
So why should you care?
Let’s start with some (alarming) stats:
By 2050, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean; (source).
Conventional plastics are made from finite fossil resources (source).
Only 9% of plastics are recycled. (source).
In short, we’re facing a global plastic pollution crisis. Which is why we love PLA.
What is PLA?
PLA (also known as Polylactic acid) is a compostable bioplastic made from plant-based resources. Put simply: it’s a plant-based bioplastic that can be recycled through the industrial composting process. This makes it an ideal material to use when packaging is mixed with food waste.
5 reasons we love PLA
1. PLA is made from renewable resources
BioPak PLA bioplastic foodservice packaging is made from plants, not oil. Think about it: plants are rapidly renewable and better for the environment, oil is finite, and its extraction, processing and conversion into products have adverse effects on people’s health and the environment.
2. PLA has a lower carbon footprint
The production of PLA bioplastic results in 75% lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional plastic derived from fossil resources.
3. PLA is a compostable alternative to many products
BioPak PLA bioplastic products will biodegrade through the industrial composting process in a maximum of 8 weeks and are certified to Australian and European Standards (AS4736, EN13432).
4. Less energy is required to create PLA
According to an independent analysis by NatureWorks, producing PLA requires 65% less energy compared to conventional plastics. (source).
5. PLA aligns with the circular economy
A lower carbon footprint and less energy required in production are just some of the reasons PLA aligns with the circular economy. The best bit? PLA comes from natural resources and can be returned to the earth naturally through the industrial composting process – mirroring the cradle-to-cradle model of the circular economy.
Packaging that puts the planet first
At BioPak, we’re committed to consciously creating more environmentally responsible alternatives to conventional foodservice packaging. Our packaging solutions are made from rapidly renewable, sustainably sourced materials — like PLA bioplastic.
If you’re looking to reduce the amount of fossil-based plastics used in your business, take a look at our range of compostable PLA lids and BioCups here.
