Taboo or Reality: Is every bioplastic sustainable and biodegradable?
Confusion often arises because we use the word "bioplastic" as a catch-all term, whereas international standards (ISO) are very specific in separating origin (where it comes from) from behavior (properties and functions). These definitions are based on standards such as ISO 16920 (terms and definitions), ISO 14855, and ISO 17088 (specifications for compostable plastics). These protocols establish two distinct foundations for classifying bioplastics. Table 1 summarizes these classifications, clearly illustrating the difference between origin and behavior. Below are the core definitions: Bio-based (ISO 16620): This standard measures "bio-based carbon content." A material is bio-based if its carbon comes from renewable sources, but this does not guarantee biodegradability. For example, a Bio-PET spoon is 100% renewable in origin, but it will persist for 500 years in the ocean just like one of fossil origin. Biodegradable (ISO 14855 / 17088): The standard certifies th...