Ingeo PLA does not create persistent microplastics

Findings from a new meta-study conducted by HYDRA Marine Sciences on Ingeo PLA in the environment found that in contrast to non-biodegradable polymers, PLA will eventually fully hydrolyze and biodegrade, meaning no persistent particles should remain and accumulate in the environment.

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Hydrolysis prevents the formation of persistent PLA microplastics in the environment

In recent years, there has been increasing concern about the environmental and health risks of nano- and microplastics. Everything in the natural world, whether organic or inorganic, breaks down over time. Plants biodegrade into humus, which ultimately mineralizes into carbon dioxide and water, closing the natural cycles. However, when synthetic materials like conventional, non-biodegradable plastics wear down, they produce persistent nano- and microplastics that are out of place in the natural environment.

There is rightful concern over the impact of synthetic, persistent microplastics, with questions being asked about the implications of their chemistry, potential toxicity, and long-term fate in the environment. As we begin to understand microplastics’ effects on human and environmental health, biobased and compostable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA) are increasingly viewed as a more sustainable long-term alternative.

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PeToPLA - Meta-Study Technical Summary Report

This meta-study reflects the current knowledge in the publicly available scientific literature and in institutional and company reports on polylactide, or poly(lactic acid), with focus on the aspects of biodegradation in the open environment, environmental impact and toxicology, and the implications for standard testing, certification, and regulation.

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PLA is Made by Fermenting Renewable Plant Sugars

Producing PLA starts with plants as they sequester atmospheric carbon dioxide in sugar molecules through the process of photosynthesis. Plant sugars are then fermented using microorganisms to produce the monomer lactic acid, a safe, non-toxic substance that is also used to preserve foods and is produced by our bodies during physical exertion. This lactic acid is then polymerized into the polylactide (PLA) biopolymer used to make a wide range of products like cups, cutlery, bin liners, or flexible food packaging.

Because PLA is made from plants that absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) and water found in nature, when it is composted, hydrolyzed, or biodegraded, the CO2 and water will return back to nature, making the process circular.

How PLA is made