We are often told that the downside of bioplastics is that it competes with agricultural production. First-generation bioplastics like PLA are frequently made from corn or sugar. However, subsequent generations use the waste from agricultural corps or other sources like algae or CO2 which clearly do not compete with food production.
In any event the current production of bioplastics is extremely small, accounting for less than 1% of the plastic being made globally. Looking ahead to 2028, it is estimated that production of bioplastics will require just 3.4 million ha, accounting for 0.73% of the global agricultural area.
The claim that bioplastics will compete with food production is false. Despite numerous peer-reviewed publications supporting this the rumours remain – I wonder where they are coming from?!