Advantages and Challenges of Biobased Plastics: A Qualitative Analysis of Stakeholders’ Perceptions

Abstract

The circular economy mostly relies on the reduction of fossil-based materials.
Finding economically viable, low-cost, renewable, and biodegradable alternatives to
plastic packaging is a significant challenge for this aim since it is widely used in the
daily consumption of various products. Bioplastics are already considered promising
substitutes for packaging materials since they are biodegradable, use renewable resources,
and release fewer greenhouse gases. However, the shift from fossil-based to biobased
materials also has its difficulties. This study uses qualitative data collected from three
primary stakeholder groups of this transition, namely, R&D managers from the packaging
industry, researchers, and policymakers. The research findings show that stakeholders
are mostly in consensus regarding the advantages and challenges of the shift from fossilbased
plastic to bioplastics. The knowledge and awareness of the process are highly
compatible with the literature on the subject. Additionally, the findings suggest that although bioplastics have the potential to contribute significantly to sustainability goals
and the circular economy greatly costs, lack of regulations, incentives and inadequate
recycling infrastructure are major obstacles to change. The agreement of stakeholders on
the matter of challenges also reveals the need for common ground for a solution.