bioplastic

[bahy-oh-plas-tik]

noun

1. plastic suitable for use as a biomaterial.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bioplastic¹

First recorded in 1980–85; bio- + plastic

Example Sentences

But, said Pryor, if bioplastic and compostable food packaging manufacturers’ get their way, the whole system could collapse.

From Los Angeles Times

Its ruling, expected this fall, could open the door for materials such as bioplastic cups, coffee pods and compostable plastic bags to be admitted into the organic compost waste stream.

From Los Angeles Times

However, for manufacturers of next-generation, “compostable” food packaging products — such as bioplastic bags, cups and takeout containers made from corn, kelp or sugarcane fibers — those federal requirements present an existential threat to their industry.

From Los Angeles Times

“To compensate for limitations inherent to bioplastic materials, such as brittleness and low gas barrier properties, bioplastics can contain additives such as synthetic polymers, fillers, and plasticizers. The specific types, amounts, and hazards of these chemicals in bioplastics are rarely disclosed.”

From Los Angeles Times

Truelove and Rhodes Yepsen, the executive director of the bioplastic institute, also point to compost bin and can liners, noting that many people won’t participate in separating out their food waste if they can’t put it in a bag — the “yuck” factor.

From Los Angeles Times