BB-REG-NET Report Finds Biodegradable Plastics Can Mitigate Long-Term Environmental Impacts Of Conventional Plastics

On October 14, 2025, BB-REG-NET, a United Kingdom (UK) regulatory science network for biobased and biodegradable materials, published a report entitled "Addressing Persistent Plastic Pollution: The Case for Biodegradable Solutions." Alder BioInsights conducted a literature review of the evidence around the presence, impact, and persistence of microplastics in the open environment due to the use of biodegradable materials. The report documents evidence from case studies in agriculture, forestry, and composting, showing that, with proper use and supportive regulatory frameworks, biodegradable plastics can mitigate the long-term environmental impacts of conventional plastics. The report states that as standards and technologies continue to evolve, biodegradable plastics will play an increasingly important role in building a more circular and sustainable bioeconomy. Many of these materials are biobased, offering a lower environmental impact than their fossil-derived