Exploring ways to make plastic from renewable resources

Reducing dependence on crude oil is an integral part of the transition towards a bioeconomy. However, most of the items we use daily, be it a takeaway mug from a restaurant or a carpet in our living room, are produced using crude oil. The use of fossil feedstock in plastics production is widespread, but the chemical industry is actively developing many alternative materials.

For example, it is now possible to make polyester using sugar and starch crops as raw material. This bio-based material, called PEF, can be used as a building block for producing a variety of products including bottles, textiles, food packaging, and carpets.

Besides its environmental benefits, PEF has improved features compared to traditional food packaging, as it is lighter and can keep products fresh longer. PEF can be recycled together with conventional plastic and is being developed for industrial production. To optimize the technology even further, companies are looking into ways to use even food waste, such as vegetable oil, as a source to make the plastic. Ultimately, this type of innovation will reduce food waste along with plastic waste.

Click here to learn more about the potential of PEF in promoting sustainable materials and the shift towards a more sustainable economy.

Related case studies

Recycling the unrecyclable

A new technology makes it possible to recycle complex multi-layer materials

The transition to a circular economy seeks to replace today’s linear “take-make-dispose” approach to resources….

Recycling food packaging into school desks

A new project improves child nutrition in South Africa and shows circular economy in action

Food packaging plays an important role in preventing food waste, keeping our food fresh longer…

Recycling more plastics

A magnetic fluid technology helps recycle coloured PET packaging

Most of the packaging for food and beverages we use every day is made from…

Replacing fossil fuels with bio-based feedstock

SABIC converts waste into renewable feedstock to make plastic


Designing products that never go to waste

A joint venture launches a fully recyclable alternative to carpets
