Green Wrapping: Ceresana Report on Bio-based Packaging

KONSTANZ, Germany - Nov. 20, 2025 - PRLog -- New factories for bioplastics open up new prospects for the packaging industry. Larger production capacities for polylactic acid (PLA), thermoplastic starch (TPS), and other biopolymers improve supply capability and predictability, lower prices, and make sustainable alternatives to fossil-based plastics economically attractive. Films, containers, bottles, and cups of all kinds, closures and lids, as well as labels, adhesive tapes, and loose-fill packaging chips made from renewable resources: The market research institute expects global sales generated with these products to grow to around USD 32.1 billion by 2034. In the context of the bioeconomy and circular economy, bio-based packaging is also being promoted by government regulation.

Bacteria Produce Films for Food

Not only is the production of bio-based and biodegradable polymers being expanded, their quality is also being constantly improved. Heat-resistant grades, customized barrier properties, and other innovations expand the range of possible applications and areas of use. PLA, usually made from plant starch, is currently the most important bioplastic on the packaging market with a share of 30%. In second place comes packaging made from bio-based plastics that are not biodegradable, such as polyethylene and PET made from sugar cane ethanol. Ceresana forecasts the highest growth rates for PLA packaging and for packaging made from polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), which are produced with the help of bacteria through fermentation and are biodegradable. The demand for this eco-friendly packaging is expected to increase by 10.3% and 7.2% respectively by 2034. One remaining challenge regarding bioplastics is that they are often still more expensive than plastics made from crude oil or natural gas. The dependence on sugar and starch as precursors can be a risk and lead to strong price fluctuations.

Opportunities and Challenges for Bioplastic Packaging

Bioplastics are increasingly being processed into durable high-performance products. However, by far the most important area of application today is short-life packaging for food and beverages. Almost 56% of all bio-based and biodegradable packaging materials are used for products such as bread, fruit, and vegetables, water, soft drinks, and juices, dairy products, chilled and frozen foods, ready meals and convenience foods, spreads, sauces, and condiments. The trend is moving towards sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging: The world region with the largest demand for bioplastic packaging is currently Asia-Pacific, with a global market share of around 42%. The European Union finances itself with a levy on non-recycled plastic packaging, among other things. The study also provides information on the regulatory framework in the EU as well as the general economic situation and the situation in the packaging industry.

Further Information: https://ceresana.com/en/produkt/biobased-packaging-market...