United front on degradables fragments amid accusations
In less time than it takes a biodegradable bag to break down, an uneasy truce between exponents of different 'degradable' technologies has fallen apart, with grave implications for the way this entire sub-sector is perceived.
The heated exchange began when the international bioplastics industry organisation IBAW published serious criticisms of so-called 'oxo-degradable' plastics, based on polyethylene (PE). IBAW represents the industry using crop-derived materials, such as maize starch, sometimes called 'hydro-degradables'. Its criticisms are levelled against those materials which combine traditional PE with additives to trigger fragmentation in the environment.
German-based IBAW released its statement largely in response to the high-profile launch in France of the oxo-degradable Neosac carrier bag. The organisation argues that much information in the media has been misleading, and wants to pre-empt national legislation being used to promote oxo-degradables.
Michael Stephen, adviser to the board at UK oxo-degradables producer Symphony Environmental, says: "It does seem to be the end of the truce, and it wasn't us who ended it. It may be that IBAW was frightened by the developments with Neosac."
IBAW's criticisms include the fact that the PE-based materials such as those used in Neosac do not meet the EN 13432 EU standard on biodegradability and compostability. IBAW also makes serious allegations about potentially toxic residues from oxo-degradables, including "carcinogenic" cobalt.
Symphony delivered a stinging response, claiming that there is no reason why its type of product should meet the existing EN standard. It also suggests that commercial pressure from the hydro-degradables industry has held up development of a more relevant standard, and says a British standard has already been drafted.
On the question of residues, Symphony states: "Oxo-biodegradable plastics have been tested by reputable testing agencies, and have been found not to be eco-toxic." It claims that cobalt, which is in any case in the form of a stearate, "is now being phased out"
