Germany - bio-based packaging ready to go

The German Packaging Ordinance supports the introduction of bioplastics to the German market. The adoption of the new regulation for bio-based packaging in the amendement to the Packaging Ordinance is particularly welcomed by the International Biodegradable Polymers Association & Working Groups, IBAW. Harald Kaeb, the Association Chairman commented, "Impediments which have existed up until now in Germany will thereby be removed, and an important contribution will be made to the introduction of this innovation to the market."

The Upper House of the German Parliament has passed the so-called Compulsory Drinks Packaging Deposit Amendment. This encompasses an exemption of certified bio-based packaging from the requirements under § 6 of the Ordinance until the year 2012. This paragraph governs the return of sales packaging and corresponding waste recovery systems.

The IBAW Association has clarified that this privilege does not lead to a discharge of product responsibility. The interim arrangement does however provide the necessary scope for development of recovery systems. With regard to the recovery of bio-based packaging, manufacturers and users are looking to see the development of an independent system which puts the underlying natural cycle concept into practice.

After usage, certified bio-based packaging may also be recovered by composting. To a large degree, renewable resources e.g. plant starch or cellulose are used in the production of this bio-based packing. These characteristics which are based on the natural cycle distinguish bioplastics from conventional petrochemically based plastics.

Compostable packaging is already in use in supermarkets in countries such as the Netherlands, Great Britain or Italy - and its success is increasing. Germany, however, with very few exceptions, does not yet have any products on the market. Bio-based packaging, for example for fresh produce such as fruit and vegetables, or carry bags, will now soon make an entry into the German retail market. "Such strongly innovative regulations strengthen a country‘‘s position", says Kaeb in praise of the initiative. It will still be some time before a broad market introduction occurs as bioplastics currently only capture a minimal market share. Manufacturers will now concentrate on the marketing of products together with further development of the technology. Current application

potential is estimated to be 10-15 % of the plastics packaging market. This is a contributing factor in bioplastics being regarded as an important innovation of the chemical and plastics industries. The International Biodegradable Polymers Association & Working Groups is an international branch association for the promotion of innovation in bioplastics and biodegradable materials. The association currently comprises 37 companies from the chemical and plastics industries, scientific institutes and innovative users.

Further information is to be found at: www.ibaw.org