Green Polymer Market SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2023 - 2030)
Green Polymer Market SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2023 - 2030)
Green Polymer Market is Segmented By Type (Biodegradable, Biobased, Recycled, Bio-based, non-biodegradable, Partially bio-based), By Application (Packaging, Agriculture, Automotive, Electronics, Textiles, Healthcare, Others), By Polymer Type (Starch-based, Polylactic acid (PLA), Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polybutylene succinate (PBS), Polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), Others), By Geography (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa). The report offers the value (in USD billion) for the above-mentioned segments.
Green Polymer Market is Segmented By Type (Biodegradable, Biobased, Recycled, Bio-based, non-biodegr...
Green Polymer Market Size - Analysis
The green polymer market size is expected to reach US$ 74.95 Bn by 2030, from US$ 39.46 Bn in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 9.6% during the forecast period. Green polymers, also known as bioplastics, are plastics manufactured from biomass sources such as vegetable oils and fats or microbial, animal, or plant sources. They provide environment-friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-based plastics. The shift towards sustainable materials and rising awareness about the negative impacts of plastic waste are driving the market growth.
The green polymer market is segmented by type, application, polymer type, and region. By type, the market is segmented into biodegradable, biobased, recycled, bio-based non-biodegradable, and partially bio-based. The biodegradable polymers segment accounted for the largest share in 2022. The demand for biodegradable plastics is increasing significantly due to stringent government regulations on single-use plastics and plastic waste.
Green Polymer Market Drivers:
Increasing consumer preference for sustainable materials: The shift in consumer preference towards eco-friendly and sustainable products is a major factor driving the growth of the green polymer market. Consumers, especially millennials, are increasingly concerned about environmental issues like plastic pollution and climate change. This is leading to the rising demand for green polymers and bioplastics as they are made from renewable sources and are compostable or recyclable. For instance, according to a global survey, around 75% of consumers prefer buying products in recyclable packaging. Brands are also recognizing this trend and launching new products or switching packaging to bioplastics. In January 2022, Nestlé (food and Beverage Company) announced plans to source recycled plastics for its packaging and replace virgin plastics with food-grade recycled plastics.
Stringent government regulations: Governments across the world are implementing stringent regulations on single-use plastics to reduce plastic waste pollution. Several countries have banned certain plastic products or imposed taxes on plastic packaging. Such regulations are compelling manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly bioplastics and driving the market growth. For example, the European Commission has set targets to incorporate 25% of recycled plastic in PET bottles by 2025 and 30% in all plastic packaging by 2030. The UK Plastic Packaging Tax that will come into effect in April 2022 is also expected to encourage the use of recycled plastics.
Advancements in bioplastics: Continuous advancements in material chemistry and processing technologies are improving the properties and capabilities of bioplastics. Key players are investing significantly in R&D to develop novel bio-based polymers with enhanced mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties. For instance, researchers at McGill University engineered a new bioplastic from wood byproducts that is durable like petroleum-based plastics. New additive manufacturing technologies are also enabling 3D printing with bioplastics. This is broadening their applications across industries.
Corporate sustainability goals: An increasing number of brands and retailers have set sustainability targets to use eco-friendly packaging and reduce plastic waste footprint. For instance, PepsiCo (multinational food, snack, and Beverage Corporation) aims to achieve 100% recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable for its packaging by 2025. Such commitments by large corporates are expected to drive the usage of bioplastics and recycled plastics over the coming years. Several companies in the plastics value chain like BASF, Dow Chemicals, and Indorama Ventures are investing in bioplastics production and strategic partnerships to meet the growing demand for sustainable solutions.
Green Polymer Market Opportunities:
Applications in flexible packaging: Bioplastics such as PLA, starch blends, and PBAT have huge potential as renewable and compostable alternatives to conventional plastics used in flexible packaging like plastic wraps, bags and pouches. Key players are developing novel bio-based polymers and barrier materials to improve the properties of bioplastic packaging solutions. For instance, TIPA developed compostable bio-based barrier materials to provide the needed shelf-life for food packaging. The growing trend of sustainable packaging, especially in the food and beverage industry, provides significant opportunities for bioplastics in flexible packaging applications.
Automotive applications: With a rising focus on fuel efficiency and emission reduction, automakers are using lightweight bioplastics and natural fibers for vehicle interiors and exteriors. PLA, PHA, and natural fiber biocomposites offer sustainability benefits and can reduce vehicle weight by up to 50%. Bioplastics usage in automotive is still in the early stages but with stringent environmental regulations, they hold enormous potential to replace petroleum-based plastics in interior trim, dashboards, insulation, brackets, etc. Leading players like Toyota Tsusho Americas and Ford Motor Company are conducting R&D in this field.
Novel biopolymers: Advances in synthetic biology and genetic engineering have enabled the development of novel biomaterials like PEF (polyethylene furanoate), PHAs (polyhydroxyalkanoates), and PBS (polybutylene succinate) with superior properties and processability comparable to oil-based plastics. Commercialization of such new bio-based polymers produced from bacterial fermentation or enzymatic processes can provide unique properties to meet the requirements for advanced applications. Their production is also more environmentally sustainable.
Emerging markets favorable policies: Emerging economies like China, Brazil, and India are implementing policies and incentives to promote bioplastics manufacturing to reduce reliance on imported petrochemicals and tackle plastic pollution issues. For instance, the Indian government plans to mandate the use of compostable plastic packaging in food deliveries to curb plastic waste. The rising middle-class population and industrial growth make these markets highly lucrative for investment in bioplastics production infrastructure.
Green Polymer Market Restraints:
High production costs: The production costs of most bioplastics continue to be higher compared to conventional plastics derived from petrochemical feedstocks. This is a major challenge hindering the wider adoption of bioplastics. The cost difference stems from the complex extraction processes required for bioplastics and the economies of scale enjoyed by the mature petrochemical industry. However, players are investing to increase production scale and optimize bioplastic production to reduce costs.
Performance limitations: While bioplastics are suitable for packaging applications, their adoption in durable, engineering applications is limited owing to performance factors like heat resistance, strength, and longevity compared to conventional plastics. For example, PLA starts to deform at temperatures above 60°C, restricting its use in automotive or electronics products. Targeted research and product development are focused on modifying bioplastics to expand their applicability.
Lack of adequate infrastructure: The recycling of bioplastics like PLA and PHA requires dedicated facilities as they have different chemical structures compared to standard PET and PP plastics. However, recycling infrastructure and public awareness still remain key challenges, especially in developing economies. Without adequate composting and waste segregation facilities, bioplastics end up in conventional plastic waste streams, diminishing their sustainability benefits. Government and industry efforts are crucial to build supporting infrastructure.
Market Size in USD Bn
CAGR9.6%
Study Period
2023 - 2030
Base Year of Estimation
2022
CAGR
9.6%
Fastest Growing Market
Asia Pacific
Larget Market
North America
Market Concentration
High
Major Players
BASF, Dow Chemical, Braskem, NatureWorks, Novamont and Among Others
*Disclaimer: Major players are listed in no particular order.
*Source: Coherent Market Insights
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Green Polymer Market Trends
Growing adoption of biodegradable plastics: Biodegradable plastics such as PLA, PHA, PBS, and starch blends are experiencing robust adoption across key industries like packaging, agriculture, textiles, etc. due to their ability to fully decompose into natural substances in landfills, soil, or marine environments. With single-use plastic bans imposed in 60+ countries, biodegradable plastics present a sustainable option as they can be industrially composted after use. Key players are ramping up production capacities to meet the surging demand. For instance, Total Corbion (global leader in the marketing, sales, and production of Poly Lactic Acid (PLA)) announced plans to expand global PLA capacity by 25% in 2022.
Rising demand for eco-friendly textiles: Bioplastics like PLA and bio-based polyester offer a green alternative to polyester in textile manufacturing. Leading textile companies are adopting bioplastics to produce eco-friendly fabrics to appeal to sustainably-conscious consumers. For example, around 60% of H&M’s fabrics are now made from recycled or biosourced content like recycled PET and lyocell. Several fashion brands like Levis, Diesel, and Foot Locker have also launched apparel and footwear made using recycled plastics or bioplastics.
Increasing use of bioplastics in 3D printing: PLA is extensively used as a feedstock for 3D printing filaments as it produces rigid printed objects while being biodegradable and non-toxic. With the growing adoption of additive manufacturing across industries, the use of bioplastics like PLA and flexible TPU filament is rising rapidly. Bioplastics allow 3D printing of sustainable prototypes and production parts for applications ranging from construction to medical devices. Advancements in materials are also expanding 3D printing capabilities to flexible and multi-material components.
Focus on enhancing properties and performance: While the popularity of bioplastics is increasing exponentially, some limitations in properties like heat resistance, strength, and barrier have hampered their adoption for certain applications. As a result, there is extensive research focused on incorporating nanomaterials or developing additives/plasticizers to improve bioplastics’ mechanical properties, thermal stability, moisture resistance, and process ability. For instance, researchers at IIT Guwahati developed nanoparticle-reinforced PLA with superior mechanical performance.
Green Polymer Market Regional Insights:
North America is the largest regional market for green polymers, accounting for over 35% of the global market in 2022. The high demand for green polymers in this region is attributed to the increasing awareness about environmental sustainability and the growing adoption of green technologies.
Europe is the second-largest regional market for green polymers, accounting for over 25% of the global market in 2022. The high demand for green polymers in this region is attributed to the stringent environmental regulations imposed by the European Union.
Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing regional market for green polymers, with a CAGR of over 15% during the forecast period. The high growth of the market in this region is attributed to the increasing production and sales of electric vehicles and the growing demand for sustainable packaging materials.
Figure 1. Green Polymer Market Share (%), By Region, 2023
Competitive overview of Green Polymer Market
Major players operating in the Green Polymer Market include BASF, Dow Chemical, Braskem, NatureWorks, Novamont, Biome Technologies, Indorama Ventures, Metabolix, Bio-On, Plantic Technologies, Danimer Scientific, Toray Industries, Teijin, Unitika, Toyobo, Mitsubishi Chemicals, Purac, Sulzer Chemtech, Myriant Corporation, and BioAmber
Green Polymer Market Leaders
BASF
Dow Chemical
Braskem
NatureWorks
Novamont
*Disclaimer: Major players are listed in no particular order.
Green Polymer Market - Competitive Rivalry
Green Polymer Market
Market Consolidated (Dominated by major players)
Market Fragmented (Highly competitive with lots of players.)
*Source: Coherent Market Insights
Recent Developments in Green Polymer Market
New product launches:
In March 2022, BASF (European multinational company and the largest chemical producer in the world) launched biodegradable plastic ecovio AM13310 for 3D printing filaments. The material provides flexibility and durability for 3D printed parts.
In January 2021, Indorama Ventures (producer of PET resins, and a manufacturer of wool yarns) introduced its new recyclable food-grade polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging solution IRCPET. It can help reduce the use of virgin PET.
In June 2020, Danimer Scientific introduced its Nodax PHA biopolymer for use in clear plastic beverage bottles. It delivers improved productivity and processing.
Acquisition and partnerships:
In December 2021, BASF acquired Solvay’s polyamide business to expand its engineering plastics portfolio. The acquisition enhanced BASF’s presence in the automotive market.
In April 2021, Plantic Technologies and Kuraray partnered to develop high-barrier bioplastic packaging products by combining their proprietary technologies.
In March 2020, DuPont acquired Shell's interests in the joint venture DuPont Tate & Lyle Bio Products, a producer of renewable materials. This acquisition expanded DuPont’s biomaterials capabilities.
Green Polymer Market Report - Table of Contents
Research Objectives and Assumptions
Research Objectives
Assumptions
Abbreviations
Market Purview
Report Description
Market Definition and Scope
Executive Summary
Green Polymer Market, By Type
Green Polymer Market, By Application
Green Polymer Market, By Polymer Type
Green Polymer Market, By Region
Coherent Opportunity Map (COM)
Market Dynamics, Regulations, and Trends Analysis
Market Dynamics
Increasing consumer preference for sustainable materials
High production costs
Applications in flexible packaging
Key Highlights
Regulatory Scenario
Product launch/Approvals
PEST Analysis
PORTER’s Analysis
Merger and Acquisition Scenario
Green Polymer Market – Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic
COVID-19 Epidemiology
Supply Side and Demand Side Analysis
Economic Impact
Green Polymer Market, By Type, 2018-2030, (US$ Bn)
Introduction
Market Share Analysis, 2023 and 2030 (%)
Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2018 – 2030
Segment Trends
Biodegradable
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Biobased
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Recycled
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Bio-based, non-biodegradable
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Partially bio-based
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Green Polymer Market, By Application, 2018-2030, (US$ Bn)
Introduction
Market Share Analysis, 2023 and 2030 (%)
Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2018 – 2030
Segment Trends
Packaging
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Agriculture
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Automotive
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Electronics
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Textiles
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Healthcare
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Others (construction, consumer goods, etc.)
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Green Polymer Market, By Polymer Type, 2018-2030, (US$ Bn)
Introduction
Market Share Analysis, 2023 and 2030 (%)
Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2018 – 2030
Segment Trends
Starch-based
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Polylactic acid (PLA)
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Polybutylene succinate (PBS)
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT)
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Others (PUR, PVA, etc.)
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Green Polymer Market, By Region, 2018-2030, (US$ Bn)
Introduction
Market Share Analysis, By Country, 2023 and 2030 (%)
Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, For Country 2018 –2030
Country Trends
North America
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Application, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Polymer Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Country, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
U.S.
Canada
Europe
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Application, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Polymer Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Country, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Germany
U.K.
France
Italy
Russia
Spain
Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Application, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Polymer Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Country, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
China
India
Japan
Australia
South Korea
ASEAN
Rest of Asia Pacific
Latin America
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Application, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Polymer Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Country, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Brazil
Argentina
Mexico
Rest of Latin America
Middle East & Africa
Introduction
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Application, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Polymer Type, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, By Country, 2019-2030, (US$ Bn)
GCC Countries
Israel
South Africa
Central Africa
North Africa
Rest of Middle East
Competitive Landscape
BASF
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Developments
Financial Performance
Strategies
Dow Chemical
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Braskem
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
NatureWorks
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Novamont
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Biome Technologies
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Indorama Ventures
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Metabolix
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Bio-On
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Plantic Technologies
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Danimer Scientific
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Toray Industries
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Teijin
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Unitika
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Toyobo
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Mitsubishi Chemicals
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Purac
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Sulzer Chemtech
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Myriant Corporation
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
BioAmber
Company Highlights
Product Portfolio
Key Highlights
Financial Performance
Strategies
Analyst Views
Section
Research Methodology
About us
*Browse 24 market data tables and 28 figures on “Polymer Market” - Global forecast to 2030
Green Polymer Market Segmentation
By Type
Biodegradable
Biobased
Recycled
Bio-based, non-biodegradable
Partially bio-based
By Application
Packaging
Agriculture
Automotive
Electronics
Textiles
Healthcare
Others (construction, consumer goods, etc.)
By Polymer Type
Starch-based
Polylactic acid (PLA)
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
Polybutylene succinate (PBS)
Polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT)
Others (PUR, PVA, etc.)
By Geography
North America
Europe
Asia Pacific
Latin America
Middle East and Africa
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About author
Yash Doshi is a Senior Management Consultant. He has 12+ years of experience in conducting research and handling consulting projects across verticals in APAC, EMEA, and the Americas.
He brings strong acumen in helping chemical companies navigate complex challenges and identify growth opportunities. He has deep expertise across the chemicals value chain, including commodity, specialty and fine chemicals, plastics and polymers, and petrochemicals. Yash is a sought-after speaker at industry conferences and contributes to various publications on topics related commodity, specialty and fine chemicals, plastics and polymers, and petrochemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions :
What are the key factors hampering the growth of the green polymer market?
The key factors hampering the growth of the green polymer market are high costs compared to conventional plastics, performance limitations for some applications, lack of awareness in some regions, limitations in production capacities.
What are the major factors driving the green polymer market growth?
The major factors driving the green polymer market growth are increasing consumer awareness, supportive regulations, technological advancements, high demand for sustainable products.
Which is the leading component segment in the green polymer market?
The biodegradable polymers segment accounted for the largest share in the green polymer market owing to rising demand to tackle plastic pollution.
Which are the major players operating in the green polymer market?