In recent years, the problem of environmental pollution from plastic bags has become urgent, accelerating the need to find environmentally friendly alternatives. One of those solutions is to use biodegradable bags, which are made from biodegradable materials. This article will focus on exploring the main materials used to produce biodegradable bags, while highlighting why they have become the preferred choice in environmental protection.
Reasons to switch from traditional plastic bags to biodegradable bags
Environmental consequences of traditional plastic bags
Traditional plastic bags cause serious environmental problems due to their poor decomposition ability. Although dominant in everyday life because of their convenience and low price, plastic bags have become a major threat to the environment. A plastic bag can take from 100 to 1,000 years to completely decompose in the natural environment. During this process, they break down into microplastics, polluting soil and water, while affecting aquatic life and human health.
The accumulation of plastic bags not only blocks water drainage, causing flooding, but also degrades soil quality, hindering plant growth. In addition, plastic bags when discharged into the ocean have become a hazard to aquatic life, from being accidentally consumed by marine animals to contributing to giant “trash islands” at sea, causing reduced biodiversity and affecting the marine food chain.
Environmental benefits of using biodegradable bags
Biodegradable bags provide significant benefits to the environment through their ability to rapidly biodegrade. In contrast to traditional plastic bags, biodegradable bags are designed to decompose quickly under natural conditions, turning into water, carbon dioxide, and organic matter without leaving behind toxic substances. This process helps significantly reduce the amount of waste remaining in the environment, while also supporting the soil nutrient regeneration cycle.
Using biodegradable bags not only helps protect biodiversity but also promotes sustainable consumption actions in the community. By reducing the amount of non-biodegradable waste, these bags also reduce the risk of microplastics contamination, thereby protecting aquatic life and the ecosystem in general. This not only cleans up the environment but also contributes to a more sustainable future for the planet.
Main raw materials for producing biodegradable bags
Raw materials to produce biodegradable bags include modified starch, biopolymers such as PHA and PLA, along with modified cellulose. Each of these materials has its own advantages, from biodegradability to high applicability in bag production.
1. Modified starch
Modified starch is an important raw material source, widely used in the production of biodegradable bags because of its high biodegradability and stable physical properties.
- The starch modification process improves physical properties such as durability and elasticity.
- Using starch from corn, potatoes, wheat, ensuring sustainability in terms of raw materials.
- Minimize environmental impact thanks to friendly production processes.
- Is the leading choice to replace petroleum-based materials, contributing to reducing carbon emissions.
2. Biopolymers: PHA and PLA
Biopolymers such as PHA and PLA play an important role in the biodegradable bags industry thanks to their sustainability and biodegradability.
- PLA and PHA are produced from renewable raw materials such as sugar cane and corn.
- Able to biodegrade under natural conditions, leaving no toxic substances behind.
- Can be processed in industrial composting facilities, reducing decomposition time.
- Diverse in applications, from food packaging to shopping bags.
3. Modified cellulose
Modified plant-based cellulose not only provides a sustainable solution but also enhances the durability and biodegradability of biodegradable bags.
- Cellulose, the main component of plants, when modified, creates materials with superior physical properties.
- Take advantage of available raw materials, reduce dependence on petroleum-based raw materials.
- The product has perfect biodegradability in the natural environment.
- An effective alternative to plastic bags, promoting a circular economy and protecting the environment.
Comparison between biodegradable bags and traditional plastic bags in terms of economics and performance
Economic and performance comparisons between biodegradable bags and traditional plastic bags reveal several highlights.
- Production costs: Initially, biodegradable bags have higher production costs than traditional plastic bags due to raw material prices and production technology. However, with the growth of technology and output, this cost is gradually decreasing.
- Performance: Biodegradable bags often have good durability and bearing capacity equivalent to or even higher than traditional plastic bags, especially when they are reinforced with materials such as modified cellulose.
- Environmental impact: Despite the higher price, the environmental benefits of biodegradable bags are undeniable, helping to reduce pollution and support sustainable development goals.
