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Framework Conditions

Framework conditions – both statutory and market-related – in general play a very important role for innovations. Broad market introduction of bioplastics requires the following conditions to be met to the greatest extent possible:

• economic viability,
• technical performance of products with regard to processing and application,
• together with statutory framework conditions.

This is generally a gradual process, as fulfilment of the first two conditions in particular requires considerable investment in technology development, plant and marketing.  In addition, market prospects must be propitious. Suitable framework conditions accelerate this process. Legislation will only be introduced when sufficient need for it is perceived. The entire renewable energy and fuels sector is a good example of such a need. The boom in this sector was triggered by legislation which had already accelerated technical progress and marketing years in advance, in spite of a distinct lack of economic viability. This led to improvement of conditions. In most recent times, the driving force behind market development has been significant price increases in fossil fuels. The technology has matured and industrial structures have been established. Today’s boom is not least thanks to the previous political foresight.

Plastics from renewable resources have managed to find a way onto the market without any such support, however their market share is still very small. The process of broad market introduction of bioplastics will take years. Framework conditions are also necessary for this very promising sector. Such conditions can contribute significantly to a reduction in investment risk. This is not only advantageous for the companies involved. Society and the environment also benefit in numerous ways from the realisation of such innovations. The goal of a achieving a sustainable society is no longer regarded as a pious wish. Climate protection and conservation of resources are necessary pre-requisites to enable stable development of society and the economy.

In line with this concept of sustainable development, European Bioplastics is engaged in lobbying to ensure that suitable framework conditions are in place to enable market introduction of bioplastics. In Germany and France, Legislation has now come into force to assist in accelerating the market introduction process.

Opportunities for a broad market introduction of bioplastics:

• Creation of jobs with a guaranteed future
• Maintenance of jobs in the European plastics industry and agriculture
• Participation in an international high-technology growth market (export opportunities)
• Important contribution to sustainable development
• Conservation of fossil fuel reserves
• Reduction of CO₂ emissions
• New market for agricultural raw materials
• High added value compared with energy products
• Great market potential (10% of the plastics market in the medium term)