Bio-based plastics | Knowledge for policy

Bioeconomy

Brief me

Bio-based plastics are derived from biomass feedstock. They are generally considered as a positive alternative to conventional plastics for their contribution in reducing GHG emissions.
Bio-based and biodegradable plastics account for ~0.5% of the total plastics production in 2025. Global annual production capacity is ~2.3 Mt, expected to grow to 4.7 Mt by 2030.
Between 2014 and 2023, the European rubber and bio-based plastic sector provided on average EUR 3.2 billion added value and 57,000 jobs every year; 25-30% of which are related to manufacturing and production of bio-based plastics.
The European bio-based plastic industry could potentially grow, relying on domestic feedstock, which would bring socio-economic advantages and help improve recyclability and end-of-life management.

Find out more in the brief and discover more resources in Explore further.

Brief on Bio-based plastics in a sustainable and circular bioeconomy

Explore further

Relevant policies on bio-based plastics

Explore the EU policy framework and discover how it supports the development of the bio-based plastic sector.

Data on bio-based plastics

Consult relevant datasets made available by high profile institutions.

Reports on bio-based plastics

Access the latest studies on bio-based plastics.

Networks and expert groups on bio-based plastics

Explore platforms, clusters and working groups with a focus on bio-based plastics.

Overview of projects on bio-based plastics

Bio-based mulch films and food packaging

Innovation supply chain for FDCA & PEF

Sorting & recycling of bio-based plastics

Circular bio-based flagship packaging

BIOcomposites in plastics

From pulp and paper sludge to PHA

Biochemicals from wood residues

Latest knowledge

PUBLICATION | 02 Apr 2026

Bio-based Building Blocks and Polymers – Global Capacities, Production and Trends 2025–2030

The new high-level report, compiled by the international biopolymer expert group of the nova-Institute, provides an overview of the capacities and production data of 17 commercially available bio‑based building blocks...

EVENT | 01 Apr 2026

BIOPOLY Webinar: From Waste to Performance: Designing Bio-Based Polymers for Real Applications

During the session, researchers and industry experts from BIOPYRANIA, POLYMEER, and POLYMERS-5B will discuss the conversion of waste streams, such as brewers’ spent grain, agri-food residues, and woody...

NEWS | 03 Mar 2026

Bio-based plastics: technology readiness and high cost key barriers to wide use

Bio-based plastics currently account for a small 0.5% of global plastics production. A JRC policy brief investigates plastics derived from organic sources, its substitution potential...