To provide a roadmap for the development and continuing improvement of biobased plastics throughout their lifecycle, the Sustainable Biomaterials Collaborative led a collaborative effort to create The Guidelines for Sustainable Bioplastics (Version 1.0, released May 2009). The Guidelines reflect the current collective wisdom of a wide range of organizations that are addressing the potential benefits and challenges of biobased plastics and will be updated as the biobased plastics industry evolves.
“Bioplastics” are defined as plastics which derive 100% of their carbon from agriculture, forests, or other renewable resources. “Sustainability” encompasses issues of environment, health, and social and economic justice, as well as material resources used throughout the entire life cycle of bioplastics: from feedstock production to management of the bioplastic product after its intended use.
The Guidelines are being used by diverse organizations such as Whole Foods, the Rynel Corp., and the Maine Bioplastics Council to help guide their purchasing and promotion of biobased plastics. They are also the foundation for the development of the BioSpecs for Food Service Ware.
The Guidelines for Sustainable Bioplastics (May 2009, 18 pgs)