Why Is Biodegradable Plastic Important?

Most plastics are extremely durable, which can be a good thing. Unfortunately, when traditional single use plastics are disposed of, they put a huge strain on our waste system. Plastics have replaced several metals in our manufacturing processes, but with plastics making up 13% the municipal solid waste in the U.S., it is becoming increasingly important to think about how we dispose of our convenient necessity. Today’s plastics can be used for just about anything from food utensils to packaging supplies, but unfortunately, most plastic used ends up in a landfill. Only 8.4 percent of all plastics in the U.S. end up getting recycled while the majority ends up in landfills. There is a new class of plant based plastics that have been developed commercially in the last 10 years.  Kaneka’s PHBH™ are plant-based biopolymers produced via a revolutionary bio-fermentation process using renewable plant oils as feedstock.

Advantages of Biodegradable Plastics

Compostable and Biodegradable resins such as Kaneka’s PHBH™ break down under various conditions and when no longer needed. The biodegradability of Kaneka PHBH™ Resins paired with the statistics about plastic waste highlight why biodegradable plastic is good for our future. The benefits of biodegradable plastics continue to grow as our use of plastics grows. Every day, plastic cutlery and straws accidentally leak into our waterways and oceans. Items we use every day such as straws, cutlery and bags made from Kaneka’s PHBH™ can hold up to everyday use. Our products won’t deteriorate while you use them, like a paper straw that will become soggy during use. They will remain intact under normal conditions and can resist high heat. When you are done with them, under various conditions, Kaneka PHBH™ Resins will deteriorate when disposed of in a compost pile or landfill.[disclaimer]

Become More Sustainable with Kaneka Biopolymers

Are you interested in clean oceans, a clean conscience, and a clean planet? Kaneka PHBH™ is marine biodegradable, and compostable industrial or at home. Contact us today to request more information or to place an order for your upcoming production needs.   For more information, see our compostability / degradability disclaimer