The biodegradable plastics market is rapidly evolving as industries seek sustainable alternatives to traditional plastics. Companies are leveraging advanced biopolymers and eco-friendly materials to reduce their environmental impact. This is due to tightening global regulations and consumer demand for environmentally responsible products. According to Kings Research, the global biodegradable plastics market is expected to reach $32.61 billion by 2031, fuelled by rising consumer awareness and government initiatives. This blog highlights the top 10 companies leading the biodegradable plastics market, showcasing their contributions, innovations, and impact on sustainability.
Emerging Technologies in Biodegradable Plastics
The biodegradable plastics industry is experiencing significant advancements, propelled by ongoing research and cutting-edge technological innovations. New developments are improving both the performance and scalability of biodegradable materials, making them more viable for widespread adoption.
One key area of progress is the development of nano-enhanced biopolymers, which incorporate nanotechnology to enhance mechanical strength, biodegradability, and barrier properties. Modern biodegradable plastic composites are being engineered to offer improved durability while maintaining environmental benefits. Moreover, the use of microbial enzymatic breakdown techniques that accelerate the natural decomposition process is making biodegradable plastics more efficient in various environmental conditions.
Companies are investing in 3D-printable biodegradable plastics for customized applications across industries. This innovation reduces material waste and enhances production efficiency by creating tailored solutions for specific needs. Furthermore, development of self-degrading polymers is leading the way for materials that break down without requiring specialized industrial composting facilities.
A key advancement in the global biodegradable plastics market is the improvement of water-resistant biodegradable films. These materials solve a major drawback of traditional biodegradable plastics, making them more useful for packaging and other moisture-sensitive uses.
10 Best Companies in the Biodegradable Plastics Market
1. NatureWorks LLC
NatureWorks LLC is a pioneer in the biodegradable plastics market, best known for its Ingeo biopolymer, derived from renewable plant resources such as corn starch. Ingeo is widely used in packaging, consumer goods, and 3D printing materials, offering compostable and low-carbon alternatives to petroleum-based plastics. The company is constantly innovating to expand the applications of biodegradable plastics in various industries.
2. BASF
BASF is a global leader in sustainable plastic solutions, offering its ecovio and ecoflex product lines. Ecovio is a certified compostable plastic, combining biodegradability with high-performance characteristics for applications in packaging, agricultural films, and food service products. Ecoflex, a partially bio-based material, enhances the flexibility of biodegradable blends.
In June 2024, BASF expanded its biopolymers portfolio with a biomass-balanced (BMB) polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) named ecoflex, that reduces fossil resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Ecoflex allows packaging industries to increase the use of renewable feedstocks without compromising performance or requiring new equipment. This development reflects the growing biodegradable plastics market, driven by demand for sustainable packaging and a circular economy.
3. Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corporation
Mitsubishi Chemical Group is a major player in the biodegradable plastics market, producing BioPBS and Durabio—biodegradable and bio-based plastics. BioPBS is a plant-derived material used in compostable food packaging and agricultural applications, while Durabio provides high durability for automotive and electronic applications.
In January 2025, Mitsubishi Chemical Group partnered with PopSockets, a global lifestyle brand. Under this agreement, Mitsubishi will provide its plant-derived bio-based plastic, DURABIO, for PopSockets' smartphone cases, grips, and wallets. PopSockets is adapting its product line to meet growing consumer demand within the expanding biodegradable plastics market.
4. Biome Bioplastics
Biome Bioplastics specializes in high-performance biodegradable plastics, offering compostable coffee pods, food packaging, and biopolymer films. The company focuses on biodegradability without compromising durability and usability, making it a preferred choice for eco-conscious brands.
5. Plantic
Plantic is known for its starch-based biodegradable plastics, widely used in food packaging, thermoformed trays, and laminates. Its high-barrier biodegradable materials provide superior protection while remaining fully compostable.
6. FKuR
FKuR is a specialist in biodegradable resins and biopolymer compounds, supplying solutions for films, injection molding, and flexible packaging. Its Bio-Flex product line offers customizable, high-performance compostable materials for industrial and consumer applications.
7. Danimer Scientific
Danimer Scientific develops PHA-based biodegradable plastics, a fully marine and soil degradable alternative to traditional plastics. Its Nodax PHA is used in single-use plastics, straws, and flexible packaging.
In October 2023, Danimer Scientific, a leading player in the biodegradable plastics market, partnered with Biolo and Bolthouse Farms to announce the commercialization of home compostable packaging for fresh produce with Meijer stores. The partnership leverages Danimer Scientific's expertise in biodegradable materials to create innovative packaging that can be composted at home, potentially reducing plastic waste from fresh produce.
8. TORAY INDUSTRIES, INC.
Toray Industries produces bio-based and biodegradable polymers, including Polylactic Acid (PLA)-based films and PHA-based materials. The company focuses on high-performance biodegradable solutions for packaging, textiles, and medical applications.
9. Novamont S.p.A
Novamont is a global leader in starch-based biodegradable plastics, known for its Mater-Bi product line. Mater-Bi is widely used in compostable bags, food serviceware, and agricultural films, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional polyethylene. The company focuses on integrating renewable resources into its production process, reducing environmental impact. Its innovative approach supports a circular economy by promoting compostability and biodegradability. Novamont continuously invests in research and development to enhance product performance while maintaining eco-friendly characteristics.
10. Cargill
Cargill is a significant player in the biodegradable plastics market, focusing on innovation and sustainability. The company is involved in producing biodegradable plastic additives that enhance the functionality of bioplastics, thereby addressing the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions in the plastics industry. Cargill's additives improve properties such as flexibility, durability, and environmental compatibility, making them suitable for various applications, particularly in food packaging.
Conclusion:
The biodegradable plastics market is evolving rapidly, driven by the urgent need for eco-friendly alternatives to conventional plastics. The top 10 companies featured in this blog are pioneering biodegradable, compostable, and bio-based solutions, shaping the future of sustainable materials.
As consumer demand for green packaging and sustainable products grows, these industry leaders will continue to play a pivotal role in reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental responsibility. Their innovations will be crucial in advancing biodegradable plastics adoption across industries worldwide.
