Biodegradable Polymers Market size was over USD 9.8 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach USD 104.4 billion by the end of 2037, expanding at a CAGR of 21.8% during the forecast timeline, i.e., 2025-2037. In 2025, the industry size of biodegradable polymers is assessed at USD 12 billion. The changing consumer preferences towards the usage of eco-friendly products drive significant growth. The impact of plastic pollution on public health and the environment is severely concerning. Non-biodegradable components take a long time to be demolished, increasing the amount of waste in society. According to a UN report published in May 2023, plastics take 1000 years to be broken naturally. Thus, the discarded waste affects marine wildlife, soil, and water, causing serious health issues in the future.
Plastic polymers have become a part of daily human lives through their diverse usage in various sectors. This inspires the biodegradable polymers market to produce more effective alternatives. The massive acceptance from consumers has increased the production of bio-based components to be used as a replacement for conventional ones. Discoveries in this industry are inspiring chemical market leaders to invest in more innovative products. The rise of bioplastics is gaining traction in various applications such as consumer goods and agricultural films. According to an NLM article published in February 2023, global bioplastic production is expected to account for 7.5 million tons by 2026. The article further states that the production of biodegradable plastics in 2021 captured 64% of the total bioplastic capacity.
Growth Drivers
Challenges
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Base Year |
2024 |
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Forecast Year |
2025-2037 |
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CAGR |
21.8% |
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Base Year Market Size (2024) |
USD 9.8 billion |
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Forecast Year Market Size (2037) |
USD 104.4 billion |
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Regional Scope |
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Type (Starch-based, Polylactic Acid, Polyhydroxy Alkanoates, Polyesters, Cellulose Derivatives)
Based on type, starch-based segment is anticipated to dominate around 21.8% biodegradable polymers market share by the end of 2037. The growth is driven by its renewable nature and environmental benefits. The polymer is formulated by processed starch, extracted from bio-sources such as corn, potato, and tapioca. Companies are now blending starch-based polymers including TPS with other bioplastic materials such as PLA to enhance their properties. Private-public collaboration is putting efforts into discovering more reliable starch sources. For instance, in July 2024, Ecostarch inaugurated a bioplastic bag manufacturing plant with the support of NECTAR. The facility will utilize biodegradable polymers made from Cassava starch through its plantation in Nagaland.
Application (Agriculture, Textile, Consumer Goods, Packaging, Healthcare)
In terms of application, the agriculture segment is projected to create one of the largest consumer bases for the biodegradable polymers market. The growing popularity of sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices is driving rapid growth in this segment. Increasing demand for organic farming goods is pushing this sector to adopt bio-based products. Biodegradable polymers are now being used to produce various farming essentials such as fertilizers, pesticides, seed coatings, mulch films, and others. For instance, in November 2023, Sulzer launched its licensed PCL manufacturing technology CAPSUL. This solution can accelerate PCL production for industries including agriculture. These innovations are propelling the process of development to serve large-scale farming.
Our in-depth analysis of the global biodegradable polymers market includes the following segments:
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Type |
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Application |
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APAC Market Statistics
Asia Pacific in biodegradable polymers market is likely to hold more than 25.4% revenue share by 2037. The region is focused on reducing plastic pollution, leading to increased demand for eco-friendly products. This further encourages the extensive adoption of bio-based polymers to align with strict regional environmental regulations. The enlarging surge for organic consumer goods is also influencing companies to accelerate renewable polymer production. Global leaders are now expanding their production capacity of renewable polymers to capture such a large market space. For instance, in April 2023, BASF established compounding capacities in China to make Ecovio accessible to customers in Asia Pacific. Qualifying trials aim to extend the company portfolio by introducing innovative biopolymers and services.
India is embarking on significant growth in the biodegradable polymers market due to increased plastic pollution across the country. Government and public health authorities are proactively taking action to help promote compostable products. Thus, it increases the demand for biodegradable polymers to produce organic products. Both domestic and international companies are contributing to offering regulatory-compliant materials. Research and development are also being encouraged to introduce more efficient solutions. For instance, in September 2023, researchers from IASST, Guwahati discovered a flexible biodegradable nanocomposite film PVA-CuO. The optically active polymer performs excellently for stretchable optical devices such as flexible displays, flexible organic LED, and others.
Holding one of the biggest populations in the world, China has been reported to encounter massive plastic pollution. According to a report published by the Asian Development Bank, in June 2023, the PRC generated 590.4 million tons of plastic waste by 2019. This has paved the focus of both national and international environmental organizations. Besides recycling, they are considering the implementation of bioplastics in every sector as an effective solution. The government of China is also contributing to this growth by issuing subsidiary projects. Thus, it further fosters great investment opportunities for the market.
North America Market Analysis
North America is predicted to generate notable revenue from the biodegradable polymers market by the end of 2037. Increasing consumer awareness is influencing industries to restrict the usage of single-use plastics. The regulatory framework also promotes the adoption of renewable alternatives for packaging and other industries. The diverse applications and public-private collaboration are helping to commercialize bioplastics. The market expansion is also propelled by increased research and development in this sector.
The U.S. is projected to register a remarkable adoption rate in the biodegradable polymers market. As obtaining sustainability becomes a priority for industries, the country is predominantly acquiring a larger consumer base for continued growth. Advancements in polymers such as PLA and PHA are inspiring companies to introduce more innovation in this sector. Global leaders are investing to expand their product portfolio to offer affordable materials. For instance, in August 2021, Danimer Scientific acquired Novomer, a biodegradable polymer production house. The strategic move was made to access Novomer’s conversion technology and quality materials to reduce its production cost.
Canada is garnering a lucrative scope of development in the biodegradable polymers market by investing in replacing plastic usage with alternative renewables. Growing demand for sustainable packaging and consumer goods penetrating innovations. The country is positioning itself as a big market participant by fostering collaboration among businesses. Industries are adopting bio-based solutions to meet their sustainability goals and consumer expectations. Moreover, the partnered effort from government and private individuals is presenting a favorable opportunity for global leaders.
The biodegradable polymers market players are introducing innovative solutions to stand out in global competition. New production technology and biobased raw materials are in prime focus to collect great success in lowering plastic waste. They are also utilizing recycled materials to produce high-quality and eco-friendly outputs. For instance, in May 2023, TotalEnergies Corbion and Coexpan collaboratively launched biobased cups using recycled PLA. The production of this product utilizes FFS technology to accelerate output compared to the other plastic materials. Such collaboration inspires other market leaders to participate in introducing more developments in this sector. These key players include:
Author Credits: Rajrani Baghel
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