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.
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.

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.
PLA is Made by Fermenting Renewable Plant Sugars
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.

More on Ingeo PLA and Sustainability

News Post: Hydrolysis prevents the formation of persistent PLA microplastics
HYDRA Marine Sciences is a research institute known for their work in developing standards and conducting tests on the biodegradability of materials under marine and freshwater field, tank and laboratory conditions. To understand the fate of PLA nano- and microplastics in the environment, HYDRA began with an initial scan of over 30,000 reports, of which 500 were identified as relevant and of sufficient quality for deeper review.
Designing Ingeo PLA and Biomaterials for the Circular Economy
The circular economy model is based on a vision for more sustainable manufacturing practices that reduce waste, increase product and material reuse, and support environmental health and safety. Circularity means making sure products are repurposed as much as possible by designing them for reuse, recycling, or composting.