Study sees 900,000 metric tons of bioplastics in 2013.
The Freedonia Group's (Cleveland, OH) just-released study, World Bioplastics, cites a number of reasons why demand for bioplastics should rise to 900,000 metric tons in 2013-most important being an expected continuation of high prices for crude oil and natural gas. Note: Demand for non-biodegradable bioplastics will be the primary driver, says Freedonia.
The Freedonia report says other factors driving the growth include: increasing restrictions on nondegradable plastic products, particularly bags; development of bio-based feedstocks for commodity resins; and consumer demand for more sustainable products. Also, high-priced oil and gas will let biomaterials become more competitive with traditionally-sourced polymers.
On the supply side, the report notes that Braskem and Dow are planning to make polyethylene from sugar cane-sourced ethanol in Brazil, and Solvay is expected to open a PVC facility.
Geographically, Freedonia's report says that global bioplastics demand grew 15.3% annually from 2003 to 2008, but is expected to grow by 35.1% annually from 2009 to 2013. The fastest growth is expected in the Asia/Pacific region, making it the demand leader by 2013, followed by Western Europe, and North America. Global demand in 2008 was 200,000 metric tons, says the study.
World Bioplastics (272 pages) is available now at a cost of $5800. Further information is at www.freedoniagroup.com and +1-440-684-9600.
