News

Natureworks, the US-based manufacturer of polylactic acid (PLA), has expressed "surprise and disappointment" at an article attacking the use of biopolymers in packaging that appeared in the Guardian newspaper on Saturday (26 April).

Eamonn Tighe, Natureworks' business development manager for the UK, said the company had "no problem dealing with facts" about the credentials of biopolymers, but questioned the article's data.

"A lot is based on basic opinion, and refers to a report that we're not aware exists," said Tighe.

The article, entitled 'Sustainable' bio-plastic can damage the environment', singled out PLA as cause for concern, but was an "attack on bioplastics in general and a challenge to the industry", said Tighe.

He said there was no "one size fits all approach" to the problem of climate change and waste. "We don't believe bioplastics are the only solution, and are happy to engage with other organisations, such as recyclers, composters and government bodies."

Tighe said the need to find ways to deal with climate change meant it was "important not to stifle innovation".

"We're dealing with new materials," he said. "Just because there are disruptions now, doesn't mean it will be a bad thing in the longer term."

An analysis of the bioplastics market and the debate on food stock will appear in the May issue of Packaging News.