As the EU revises its Bioeconomy Strategy, EUBP is calling for actionable policies to unlock the full potential of bioplastics as a key enabler of a circular, regenerative, and climate-neutral economy.
Bioplastics, made from renewable carbon and/or offering circular end-of-life options, are a vital alternative to fossil-based materials. EUBP urges the EU to recognise bioplastics as a strategic pillar of its bioeconomy, emphasizing the need for coherent policies, market incentives, and investment to scale up the sector.
EUBP outlines strategic priorities to guide the EU’s updated Bioeconomy Strategy:
Launch a Biopolymers Industrial Action Plan
Bioplastics need a dedicated industrial strategy aligned with key EU initiatives such as the Clean Industrial Deal, the Biotech Act, and the Circular Economy Act. This plan should streamline fragmented policies, remove regulatory inconsistencies, and create a unified framework for innovation.
Ensure a Level Playing Field for Biobased Materials
To support market access and innovation, the EU must introduce mandatory biobased content targets in appropriate sectors, recognise renewable carbon as a strategic resource, and revise existing legislation to reflect the specific sustainability benefits of biobased plastics.
Bridge Infrastructure and End-of-Life Gaps
For bioplastics to deliver on their circularity promise, Europe needs robust end-of-life infrastructure. EUBP calls for the enforcement of separate biowaste collection across all Member States, integration of certified compostable plastics into organic recycling streams, and support for composting, mechanical, and advanced recycling systems. Harmonised labelling and certification will also be key to building consumer trust and enabling proper disposal.
Scale Investment and Innovation
The EU must increase investment in first-of-a-kind bioplastics facilities, biorefinery infrastructure, and high-performance material R&D. Regulatory sandboxes and demonstration zones should allow new innovative technologies to be tested and scaled. EUBP also urges policymakers to make sure that the PPWR implementation leaves enough room for innovative packaging solutions to reach the market and grow from small to large volumes.
Drive Market Uptake and Awareness
Market demand must be stimulated through targeted incentives, such as tax credits or minimum criteria in green public procurement (GPP), to support certified biobased and compostable products. EU-wide awareness campaigns are also essential to educate consumers and institutions on the benefits of bioplastics.
Find out more about asks at https://www.european-bioplastics.org/eu-bioeconomy-strategy-review/