The relevance of PLA bioplastics in China’s sustainable future is growing

Total Corbion Thailande — TotalEnergies Corbion PLA is a global technology leader in Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) and lactide monomers. PLA is a biobased and biodegradable polymer made from annually renewable resources, offering a reduced carbon footprint versus many traditional plastics. The Luminy® PLA portfolio, which includes both high heat and standard PLA grades, is an innovative material that is used in a wide range of markets from packaging to consumer goods, fibers and automotive.

TotalEnergies Corbion presented Luminy® PLA bioplastics in Shanghai at Chinaplas 2024, April 23-26, Asia’s premier plastics and rubber trade fair. This was an opportunity to highlight the work in the region, with customers such as Changsu. It also showcased how easily companies can transition to PLA bioplastics solutions and lower their products’ carbon emissions by up to 75% versus conventional plastic solutions.

Poly lactic acid (PLA) bioplastics are gaining significant traction in China as the country continues to prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship. With increasing awareness of environmental challenges and the need for eco-friendly solutions, PLA’s renewable, industrially compostable, and low-carbon footprint properties make it a compelling alternative to traditional fossil-based plastics.

“The growing relevance of PLA bioplastics in China reflects a broader shift towards sustainable consumption and production practices,” said Hao Ding, Global Marketing Director at TotalEnergies Corbion. “PLA’s eco-friendly attributes align with China’s sustainability goals, making it a preferred choice for industries and consumers alike.”

PLA bioplastics offer sustainable solutions for reducing environmental impact by replacing many traditional plastics and contributing to a circular economy. Key factors driving the adoption of PLA bioplastics in China include a combination of regulatory support to the use of biodegradable and eco-friendly materials; consumer preferences resulting from increasing awareness and education on environmental issues; and industry collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and industry players. These factors originate an expanding market demand for sustainable solutions in the packaging, consumer goods, automotive and other industries.

As the relevance of PLA bioplastics continues to grow in China, industry stakeholders are exploring new opportunities to leverage PLA’s potential across various applications. From packaging solutions to automotive components, PLA’s versatility and sustainability benefits are reshaping the landscape of materials and manufacturing in China.