







Global fossil-based biodegradable plastic market size was valued at USD 1,723 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3,459 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 11.0% during the forecast period.
Fossil-based biodegradable plastics are synthetic polymers derived from petroleum or natural gas feedstock, engineered to degrade naturally through microbial action. Unlike conventional plastics, these materials break down into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass under specific environmental conditions, offering a transitional solution to plastic pollution while maintaining petrochemical origins.
2024 CAGR 2032
USD 1,723 million USD 3,459 million 11.0%
The market growth is driven by increasing environmental regulations against single-use plastics and rising consumer demand for sustainable materials. .
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Global governments are implementing rigorous policies to curb conventional plastic pollution, creating substantial demand for biodegradable alternatives. Over 60 countries have enacted complete or partial bans on single-use plastics as of 2024, pushing industries toward compliant materials. Fossil-based biodegradable plastics serve as practical transitional solutions because they leverage existing petrochemical infrastructure while meeting biodegradability requirements. The European Union's Single-Use Plastics Directive has been particularly influential, mandating a 30% reduction in plastic packaging waste by
Emerging depolymerization techniques enable true closed-loop recycling of fossilbased biodegradable plastics, addressing end-of-life concerns. Pilot projects demonstrate 92-95% monomer recovery rates for PBS through glycolysis processes, creating potential secondary raw material streams. Major chemical companies have committed $780 million toward commercial-scale recycling plants by 2026, which could reduce virgin material demand by 30% in packaging applications. This technological convergence between biodegradability and recyclability positions fossil-based variants as transitional materials in the shift toward circular polymer economies.
Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is emerging as a promising cancer treatment modality, particularly for difficult-to-treat tumors like glioblastoma. Japan has led clinical adoption with over 200 patients treated since 2020, while China and Europe are ramping up clinical trials. The precision targeting capability of boron-10, when irradiated with low-energy neutrons, minimizes damage to healthy tissues - a significant advantage over conventional radiotherapy. Pharmaceutical companies are investing in boron-containing drug development, with several boron-10 based compounds currently in Phase II/III trials for various oncology indications.
The North American market is characterized by strong regulatory pressures and consumer demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. The U.S., which dominates regional consumption, is witnessing accelerated adoption due to policies like extended producer responsibility (EPR) frameworks and state-level bans on single-use plastics. Major manufacturers such as BASF and Teleflex have established production facilities to serve this growing segment. .
Europe stands at the forefront of the fossil-based biodegradable plastics market, driven by stringent EU directives like the Single-Use Plastics Ban and circular economy action plans. Germany and France account for over 45% of regional demand, with packaging and agriculture being key application areas. The presence of global players like Novamont and Corbion ensures a steady supply of compliant materials. However, the market faces headwinds from
• BASF SE (Germany)
• Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (Japan)
• Evonik Industries AG (Germany)
• Novamont S.p.A. (Italy)
These companies represent some of the major key players driving innovation and growth in the market, contributing significantly to global supply and competitive dynamics.
• Kureha Corporation (Japan)
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