As the demand for sustainable materials increases and regulations such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) tighten, plastics manufacturers are faced with the need to adapt to a more environmentally friendly future. To meet these demands, bioplastics and sustainable alternatives can be a crucial part of the solution.
Here is a practical checklist to start the transition and take the first steps towards a more sustainable business.
Step 1: Analyze current production
Before you can start replacing materials or processes, it is important to understand your current production.
- Map raw material use: Identify the types of plastics and fossil raw materials used today.
- Emissions analysis: Calculate your company's climate impact, including Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions (read more here).
- Identify key products: Focus on the products where switching to bioplastics or other sustainable materials can make the biggest difference.
Step 2: Explore bioplastic materials
Bioplastic materials can be an important part of the solution to reduce climate impact. Start by exploring the options.
- Choose the right type of bioplastic:
Bio-based plastics: For example, PLA or bio-based polyethylene (PE).
Biodegradable plastics: For example, PHA or PBAT, which can degrade naturally under certain conditions.
- Ensure compatibility:
Test whether bioplastics work in your existing production and machinery.
- Supplier partnerships:
Identify suppliers that offer certified bioplastic materials suitable for your production.
See the different types of bioplastic materials A Good Chooice offers here:
Step 3: Evaluate economic and technical factors
The transition to green materials requires investment, but also a careful analysis of cost-effectiveness.
- Calculate life-cycle costs: Evaluate the cost of bioplastics in relation to their environmental benefits and potential customer value.
- Product properties: Ensure that bioplastics meet the same strength, heat resistance and processability requirements as fossil-based plastics.
- Certifications and labeling: Ensure that your products can be labeled as sustainable, for example with TÜV Austria or other relevant certification.
Make sure your products can be labeled as sustainable, for example with TÜV Austria or other relevant certification.
Step 4: Communication and reporting
To benefit from your transition, it is important to clearly communicate your progress to customers and stakeholders.
- CSRD alignment: Start reporting sustainability data in line with the new EU
directive.
- Promote sustainability: Highlight your bioplastics solutions and sustainable initiatives in marketing and sales.
- Educate staff and customers: Ensure that both employees and customers understand the benefits of bioplastics and circular solutions.
In conclusion
The transition to bioplastics and environmentally friendly alternatives requires a strategic and well-planned process. By following this checklist, plastics manufacturers can take concrete steps towards a more sustainable business. By analyzing current production, exploring bioplastic alternatives, integrating circular models and communicating their progress, companies can not only reduce their environmental impact, but also strengthen their brand and meet future customer and regulatory requirements.
Want to know more about bioplastics and how we at A Good Choice can help your business?
We can help you with advice and customized solutions!