When Sustainability meets Policy: Legislative gaps for bioplastics

Global plastic production has increased significantly and is expected to continue growing, creating a severe environmental challenge. Bioplastics, defined as materials that are biobased, biodegradable, or both, have emerged as a potential alternative. However, the primary obstacle to their implementation is the lack of a clear and harmonized legal framework. While the European Union is working on regulations like the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), other regions such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Asia face fragmented or decentralized regulatory environments. This inconsistency leads to consumer confusion, greenwashing, and difficulties in waste management. To address these issues, the authors argue for standardized certifications and clear, mandatory labeling tied to specific environmental conditions