SPC Bioplastics Converge

A conversation with PepsiCo, Mars Incorporated, Tetra Pak, and Seventh Generation

This flash talk will discuss cellulose-based packaging films, including how they are made, technical and environmental attributes, use in lamination with bio-based sealant films, and examples in the marketplace. It will highlight the use of renewable bio-based resources and options for alternate end-of-life scenarios for flexible packaging.

Time to get over the longstanding definition of bioplastics as “plastics that  are either bio-based, biodegradable, or both”.  NatureWorks’ Steve Davies argues the bio-industry’s continued resolute focus strictly on where its materials come from and where they go is ultimately self-limiting. In the past decade especially, the industry as a whole has made big strides in broadening the functional property set of its materials, and the number of applications, as well as the new grades and formulations have proliferated. Time to focus the functional properties of these new materials.

Growing awareness and sensitivity to the issues caused by discarded plastics have most brand owners taking steps to reduce their impact on the environment. Biopolymers provide an opportunity for brands to create value by highlighting their commitment to reducing the consequences resulting from the disposal of traditional polymer packaging. As brands look to differentiate themselves, it is imperative to understand what is important to your consumers.  Take a walk through this process to understand how we move from conceptual to commercial using biopolymers to enhance your market position.

As your company invests in the move to bioplastics, mapping out a plan for testing is key in order to reduce the cost and time. The testing plan will reflect your marketing objectives and maximize your flexibility to make future changes.

How can a company use the circular economy model powered by Cradle to Cradle to change their business model? Mega trends speak about overpopulation and growth of the “middle class which will impact our resources especially finite ones.” We are currently borrowing from the future to meet our needs today. How do we change the model to make a positive impact on the planet?

The USDA BioPreferred® program’s mission is to serve as a catalyst for the success of biobased products in the global marketplace.  The USDA BioPreferred Program works to increase Federal procurement of biobased products and to create market-pull through the USDA Certified Biobased Product label. Bioplastic intermediates and finished product companies are increasingly choosing to obtain the USDA Certified Biobased Label for their products.  Discussed will be the status of  federal rulemaking process that will designated 12 categories of intermediates (e.g. plastic resins) for preferred purchasing by the federal government.  Marie Wheat will also discuss a follow-up study to a 2015 report: An Economic Impact Analysis of the U.S. Biobased Product Industry.   Commissioned by the USDA BioPreferred Program, the 2015 report examined the economic effects of the U.S. biobased products industry, including metrics at the state level.

This flash talk will introduce compostable solvent based laminating adhesive to be used in combination with compostable films.

Join your colleagues on a food tour of the historic neighborhood of Georgetown. The tours will take place in the heart of Georgetown and will combine its history, architecture, and culture with cuisine from some of the area’s best restaurants.