Biobased plastics from agricultural crops.
The shift from fossil-based to renewable resources is essential for achieving the EU’s climate neutrality goals by 2050. Bioplastics – made from renewable biomass – are a key component in this transition. The latest position paper by European Bioplastics (EUBP, June 2025) outlines why agricultural crops are not only suitable as feedstock for bioplastics, but also beneficial to food security, climate targets, and economic stability.
What exactly are bioplastics?
Bioplastics are a family of materials that are either biobased, biodegradable, or both. “Biobased” means the plastic is wholly or partly derived from renewable biomass, such as sugar-rich crops. These materials can replace conventional fossil-based plastics, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact.
Why use agricultural crops as feedstock?
Crops like corn, wheat, and sugar beet offer several advantages:
Wide availability and consistent quality,
Efficient use of land and resources,
Fast renewability and high sugar content,
Economic viability.
They currently serve as the primary feedstock for bioplastics and enable financial returns that support further innovation throughout the value chain.
Food vs. materials? A persistent misconception
There is a common misconception that using food crops for bioplastics competes with food production. This is incorrect. According to the report, only 0.013% of global agricultural land is used for biobased polymers. Moreover, this approach can support:
Increased agricultural productivity,
Economic resilience for farmers,
Greater market stability and reduced price volatility,
Additional food security through co-products and emergency reserves.
Other feedstock sources on the rise
While agricultural crops are currently the main source, the industry is also investing in other biomass streams, such as:
Agricultural and forestry residues (e.g., straw, lignin),
Algae and aquaculture,
Organic waste (e.g., from municipal or industrial sources).
These alternatives support further circularity and sustainable material innovation.
A level playing field is needed
The bioenergy sector receives significant legal and financial support across Europe, such as mandates and tax benefits. Biobased materials do not yet receive equivalent incentives, despite offering higher resource efficiency. EUBP calls for equal support across all biomass applications to enable fair market access and foster a sustainable circular bioeconomy.
Conclusion
Using agricultural crops for industrial purposes like bioplastics is not a threat but an opportunity – for climate mitigation, economic development, and food system resilience. With fair policy support, biobased industries can fully contribute to a sustainable and circular European economy.