industry awareness industry action biodegradable

1. Industry Awareness Industry Action Biodegradable/Compostable Plastics Bioplastics Packaging Materials: Advantages & Disadvantages Summary of Initial Findings � � VII Addressing Ecological Impacts of Plastics Manufacturing

2. Image surrounded by negative media Lack of upstream or downstream control Competitors have established some standards (ex. Forest Stewardship Council) Basic harmful effects (toxicity/life cycle) accepted Understanding of need to optimize materials and energy inputs through waste minimization and design Note trends and fads (ex. degradable plastics) Address attacks & misinformation �Plastic bags are made out of polyethylene. Polyethylene is made of ethylene. In the United States, ethylene is made of ethane which is extracted from natural gas. As a result, plastic bags manufactured in the United States are not made out of oil.� http://savetheplasticbag.com/ Photo Credits: Remember the archetypal turtle shot: http://sackingtheenvironment.org/plastic.aspx http://tashian.com/carl/photos/alpine-stream.3.jpg http://wildgreenyonder.files.wordpress.com/2007/02/composting-bottle.jpg http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.advplastics.co.za/adv_plastics_factory3.gif&imgrefurl=http://www.advplastics.co.za/production_facilities.html&h=312&w=410&sz=76&hl=en&start=2&um=1&usg=__0cdw4Gc_RfPeBoc3DSDlsrzaq-o=&tbnid=5EI8GPRmzWTgWM:&tbnh=95&tbnw=125&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dmanufacture%2Bplastics%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DGPhoto Credits: Remember the archetypal turtle shot: http://sackingtheenvironment.org/plastic.aspx http://tashian.com/carl/photos/alpine-stream.3.jpg http://wildgreenyonder.files.wordpress.com/2007/02/composting-bottle.jpg http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.advplastics.co.za/adv_plastics_factory3.gif&imgrefurl=http://www.advplastics.co.za/production_facilities.html&h=312&w=410&sz=76&hl=en&start=2&um=1&usg=__0cdw4Gc_RfPeBoc3DSDlsrzaq-o=&tbnid=5EI8GPRmzWTgWM:&tbnh=95&tbnw=125&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dmanufacture%2Bplastics%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DG

3. Industry Action Apply Standards Environmentally Preferred Rating (EPR) Voluntary Check abidance of Health and safety regulations Implement Lean Manufacturing Minimize waste of inputs (energy, labor, materials) Diagram credits: After the Laboratory for Manufacturing and Sustainability, Sustainable Manfuacturing Spring 2008, Lecture Side 1, originally after F. Jovane, et al. �Present and Future of Flexible Automation: �Towards New Paradigms,� CIRP Annals, 52, 2, 2003, 543. This section needs to be confirmed and added to by industry and other sources. EPR - http://www.epraccredited.org/ (We�ll speak more about bioplastics later) Diagram credits: After the Laboratory for Manufacturing and Sustainability, Sustainable Manfuacturing Spring 2008, Lecture Side 1, originally after F. Jovane, et al. �Present and Future of Flexible Automation: �Towards New Paradigms,� CIRP Annals, 52, 2, 2003, 543. This section needs to be confirmed and added to by industry and other sources. EPR - http://www.epraccredited.org/ (We�ll speak more about bioplastics later)

4. Biopolymers Like other resins, biopolymers can gain a variety of certifications or regulatory approval. Natureworks LLC notes the availability of the following: Food Contact Approval Fiber Designation In 2002 the FTC designated the biopolymer PLA as a generic fiber name for synthetic fiber manufactured from a polylactic acid or poly lactate, also called polylactide in Europe. Compostability Non-GM Certified Kosher Yet, in the US, the regulatory environment and available infrastructure as a whole, remains confusing with regard to these new products. Biomass can be made into �biopolymers� (equivalent to �renewable polymers�) For example: Sugar beet > Glyconic acid > Polyglonic acid Starch > (fermentation) > Lactic acid > Polylactic acid (PLA) Biomass > (fermentation) > Bioethanol > Ethene > Polyethylene Many companies have made packaging from these materials Diagram from http://www.natureworksllc.com/ http://www.compostingcouncil.org/index.cfm. Bpi Comstock, K., D. Farrell, Christina Godwin, Yun Xi (3 June 2004). �Food packaging of the future.� http://depts.washington.edu/poeweb/gradprograms/envmgt/2004symposium/GreenPackagingReport.pdf Picture credits: http://www.nature.com/nbt/journal/v23/n6/images/nbt0605-638-I1.jpg http://www.haringey.gov.uk/compostable_logo.gif Diagram from http://www.natureworksllc.com/ http://www.compostingcouncil.org/index.cfm. Bpi Comstock, K., D. Farrell, Christina Godwin, Yun Xi (3 June 2004). �Food packaging of the future.� http://depts.washington.edu/poeweb/gradprograms/envmgt/2004symposium/GreenPackagingReport.pdf Picture credits: http://www.nature.com/nbt/journal/v23/n6/images/nbt0605-638-I1.jpg http://www.haringey.gov.uk/compostable_logo.gif

5. A note about Degradable, Biobased, Biodegradable, & Compostable Plastics

6. Bioplastics uptake Bioplastics are an eco-based alternative to traditional plastics. However, many questions remain over their environmental impact and how best to implement them. While worthy of further investigation, bioplastics are subject to the following criticisms: Continues to use petroleum as an energy and materials source (fertilisers, pesticides, fuel for farm equipment and transport, and for processing) environmental impact for some products has actually been shown to be worse than traditional plastics May impede efforts to recycle traditional plastics Sources: 0.17% bioplastics: Bioplastic. (2008, Aug 25). In Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved August 25, 2008, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodegradable_Plastic; American Chemical Society. August 29,2007. Plastics from the bread basket. Environmental Science & Technology Online. Retrieved August 25, 2008, from http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/aug/tech/ts_plastics.html Types of degradable polymers table: James, K. and T. Grant (2005). �LCA [Life-cycle assessment] of degradable plastic bags. Centre for Design at RMIT University, Australia. Sources: 0.17% bioplastics: Bioplastic. (2008, Aug 25). In Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved August 25, 2008, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodegradable_Plastic; American Chemical Society. August 29,2007. Plastics from the bread basket. Environmental Science & Technology Online. Retrieved August 25, 2008, from http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/aug/tech/ts_plastics.html Types of degradable polymers table: James, K. and T. Grant (2005). �LCA [Life-cycle assessment] of degradable plastic bags. Centre for Design at RMIT University, Australia.

7. Bioplastics Packaging Materials WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html Example Materials: Polylactic Acid (PLA) Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Bagasse (from sugar cane) Poly-hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) Thermoplastic Starch Materials (TSM) Polyglycolide Acid (PGA) Polycaprolactone (PCL). UK�s Composting Association (European standard EN13432) � sets the requirements for biodegradable and compostable packaging in and out of industrial settings. http://www.scienceimage.csiro.au/index.cfm?event=site.image.thumbnail&id=3350&viewfile=f&divid=HR http://www.packaging-int.com/images/companies/2017/veriplastimage2.jpg http://www.amazon.com/Yellow-Biodegradable-Packing-Peanuts-12BNUTS/dp/B000ZJS9T0/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&s=office-products&qid=1200526134&sr=1-13 WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html Example Materials: Polylactic Acid (PLA) Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Bagasse (from sugar cane) Poly-hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) Thermoplastic Starch Materials (TSM) Polyglycolide Acid (PGA) Polycaprolactone (PCL). UK�s Composting Association (European standard EN13432) � sets the requirements for biodegradable and compostable packaging in and out of industrial settings. http://www.scienceimage.csiro.au/index.cfm?event=site.image.thumbnail&id=3350&viewfile=f&divid=HR http://www.packaging-int.com/images/companies/2017/veriplastimage2.jpg http://www.amazon.com/Yellow-Biodegradable-Packing-Peanuts-12BNUTS/dp/B000ZJS9T0/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&s=office-products&qid=1200526134&sr=1-13

8. Summary of Initial Findings Issue of upstream and downstream impacts of lifecycle Addressing concerns of source, toxicity and EOL Slow to implement infrastructure Limited control to ensuring proper EOL disposal Need for redesign to optimize product in environment of constraints Lack of enforceable best practices/standards Bioplastics still emerging research on impacts needed potential scope unknown it is unknown if trad. plastics manufactures would be willing to convert to this field How are other packaging manufactures addressing these issues? Do they concentrate on the same concerns? Go to a factory, seems like efficient factory, decent work environment, fairly satisfied employees, and doing well in business (EEE) But there are some major issues/ concerns not being sufficiently addressed Look at others to see if they are addressing these issuesGo to a factory, seems like efficient factory, decent work environment, fairly satisfied employees, and doing well in business (EEE) But there are some major issues/ concerns not being sufficiently addressed Look at others to see if they are addressing these issues

9. Glass Metal Natural Fibers (not addressed at present) Wood & Wood Derivatives Composites Adhesives, Labels, Ink & Pigment � � VIII Addressing the Ecological Impacts of Other Packaging Manufacturing Sectors

10. Advantages Use Material properties lend the substance a wide variety of uses Material is inert, strong, durable, will not leach chemicals, usable at high temperatures, a good barrier for moisture and gas EOL Can be recycled with little loss of material integrity while using a high percentage of recycled content Sterilization for reuse is easy and fast Implementation Existing recycling and some reuse infrastructure Disadvantages Source Expensive raw materials (silica, sand, �simple materials�) Manufacturing Energy intensive processes Distribution Heavy in comparison to other packaging materials EOL Recycling is energy intensive Difficult to recycle mixed and dark colored glass WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. p 2-5 http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html This resource focuses on practical next step action, but not on remaking the system. American Chemistry Council Life Cycle Study Sheds Light on Environmental Performance of Everyday Foodservice Packaging Products http://www.americanchemistry.com/s_plastics/sec_pfpg.asp?CID=1439&DID=5231 http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/materials/glassrite.html British Glass http://www.britglass.org.uk/Files/LocalAuthorities/BGEnviroReport.pdf British Glass: www.britglass.org.uk Glass Packaging Institute: www.gpi.org Glass Technology Services (GTS): www.glass-ts.com Photo Credits: http://www.sgcontainers.com/index.nsf/BD3B2B123173B60D85256B6A000DD522/$File/group.jpg http://www.wrap.org.uk/images/r_col/10801_ClearJars.jpg  WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. p 2-5 http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html This resource focuses on practical next step action, but not on remaking the system. American Chemistry Council Life Cycle Study Sheds Light on Environmental Performance of Everyday Foodservice Packaging Products http://www.americanchemistry.com/s_plastics/sec_pfpg.asp?CID=1439&DID=5231 http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/materials/glassrite.html

11. Metal* Packaging Strengths Use Strong, long-lasting high strength-to-weight ratio EOL recycling without loss of quality and able to have a high percentage of recycled content Magnetic extraction allows steel to be easily separaed Implementation recycling infrastructure; Weaknesses Source Energy intensive Dangerous proffession? �lookupmining Pollution?? Coke or other forms of carbon (CH4, recycled organic products) used to reduce ores result in CO2 emissions emissions of PFC�s from aluminum ore processing Manufacturing Design is limited?? Energy intensive Coating causes Environmental impacts of coating, but also, water-based paints diffiucult increased lifetimes of ferrous components Use Normally limited to one use Heavier than some alternatives EOL Coatings and alloys can cause recycling difficulties * (primarily steel and aluminum) - Some steel cans have a very thin layer of tin that protects the surface of the can, WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. Notes many of the design benefits and weaknesses of metal packaging. http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html Packaging manufacturers have recently been attempting to highlight the benefits associated with their manufacturing process. Steel Towards a Closed Steel Eco Cycle http://www.mistra.org/mistra/english/research/activeprogrammes/towardsaclosedsteelecocycle.4.1eeb37210182cfc0d680007316.html Steel just startting to launch 30.05.2008�Steel for packaging industry launches sustainability positioning in Europe APEAL launched its sustainability positioning in Brussels on 28th May 2008, showcasing its unique position as an enabler for a sustainable 21st century.�  Steelforpackaging.org BPA issues http://www.metal-pack.org/docs/pdf/00024936.PDF http://www.apeal.org/emc.asp?pageId=192 APEAL Association of European Producers of Steel for Packaging http://www.apeal.org/emc.asp?pageId=212 New Packaging Concept Challenges Glass and Cans By Pernille Moulvad, Marketing Team Leader, Faerch Plast A/S Photo credits: http://www.spectrumpackaging.com.au/files/W-Tin_Group-Shot.jpg http://www.qinetiq.com/home/newsroom/news_releases_homepage/2006/4th_quarter/Crown_teams_up_with_QinetiQ_to_resolve_challenges_of_RFID_on_metal_packaging.Par.0001.File.tmp/Metal%20packaging%20image.JPG http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://blogs.citypages.com/blotter/images/aluminumCans.jpg&imgrefurl=http://blogs.citypages.com/blotter/2006/05/the_rise_of_the_can_thieves.php&h=200&w=200&sz=10&hl=en&start=2&tbnid=aiIJP8OiNjOXjM:&tbnh=104&tbnw=104&prev=/images%3Fq%3Daluminum%2Bcans%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DG http://www.cclcontainermedia.com/images/products/BodyShapes.jpg North American Metal Packaging Alliance, Inc. (NAMPA) http://www.metal-pack.org/ http://www.area603.com/resserver.php?blogId=6&resource=life%20cycle%20of%20aluminum%20can.jpg&mode=medium EU Aluminium Association POSITION PAPER 18.04.2008 Carbon footprint: a reliable environmental indicator? http://eaa.net/files/eaa/documentslive/41/124_EAA%20position%20paper-%20carbon%20footprint.pdf Useful but Broaden the scope to avoid trade-offs Apply an already standardized approach Compare products which serve the same purpose Don�t forget the use phase and the recycling benefits Establish robust life-cycle based methodology International aluminum Association Carbon Footprint Guidance Document Position Paperhttp://www.world-aluminium.org/cache/fl0000169.pdf Pitfalls make it seem like aluminum isn�t a great packaging choice as with ISO 1400 standard Disregarding different mass ie. ISO 14044 standard, means that the Carbon Footprint of 1 kg aluminium cans has to be compared with the Carbon Footprint of 25 kg of glass bottles. Disregarding end-of-life recycling The term "supply chain" which is often used in the literature instead of "life cycle" is misleading, as it invites to disregard recycling. Disregarding the use stage Packaging sector In a comparative study, the functional unit (e.g. a can with a can of the same volume and not 1kg of cans with 1kg of cans) must be identical, especially the quantity of the product in the package, the expected life-time, the aroma conservation and the spoilage rate of the product in the package. In the incineration process of packaging waste, energy is generated by the combustion of the aluminium foil, but, contrary to paper and plastics, no CO2 is produced. The positive impacts resulting from the transportation of the packaging material including the distribution of the packaged good and, the sealing properties (for conservation of product, avoidance of spoilage and tampering), have to be taken into account. Usually aluminium packaging systems have a lower mass than those from competing materials and provide a better protection for the packaged goods.  Coming Aluminum recycling and processing for energy conservation and sustainability /�John A.S. Green, editor.Publisher��Materials Park, Ohio :�ASM International,�c2007.Description��x, 267 p. :�ill. ;�27 cm.Note��Includes bibliographical references and index.LCCN��2007932444ISBN��0871708590� 9780871708595�Language��English http://www.area603.com/resserver.php?blogId=6&resource=life%20cycle%20of%20aluminum%20can.jpg&mode=medium EU Aluminium Association POSITION PAPER 18.04.2008 Carbon footprint: a reliable environmental indicator? http://eaa.net/files/eaa/documentslive/41/124_EAA%20position%20paper-%20carbon%20footprint.pdf Useful but Broaden the scope to avoid trade-offs Apply an already standardized approach Compare products which serve the same purpose Don�t forget the use phase and the recycling benefits Establish robust life-cycle based methodology International aluminum Association Carbon Footprint Guidance Document Position Paperhttp://www.world-aluminium.org/cache/fl0000169.pdf Pitfalls make it seem like aluminum isn�t a great packaging choice as with ISO 1400 standard Disregarding different mass ie. ISO 14044 standard, means that the Carbon Footprint of 1 kg aluminium cans has to be compared with the Carbon Footprint of 25 kg of glass bottles. Disregarding end-of-life recycling The term "supply chain" which is often used in the literature instead of "life cycle" is misleading, as it invites to disregard recycling. Disregarding the use stage Packaging sector In a comparative study, the functional unit (e.g. a can with a can of the same volume and not 1kg of cans with 1kg of cans) must be identical, especially the quantity of the product in the package, the expected life-time, the aroma conservation and the spoilage rate of the product in the package. In the incineration process of packaging waste, energy is generated by the combustion of the aluminium foil, but, contrary to paper and plastics, no CO2 is produced. The positive impacts resulting from the transportation of the packaging material including the distribution of the packaged good and, the sealing properties (for conservation of product, avoidance of spoilage and tampering), have to be taken into account. Usually aluminium packaging systems have a lower mass than those from competing materials and provide a better protection for the packaged goods. Aluminum recycling and processing for energy conservation and sustainability /�John A.S. Green, editor.Publisher��Materials Park, Ohio :�ASM International,�c2007.Description��x, 267 p. :�ill. ;�27 cm.Note��Includes bibliographical references and index.LCCN��2007932444ISBN��0871708590� 9780871708595�Language��English * (primarily steel and aluminum) - Some steel cans have a very thin layer of tin that protects the surface of the can, WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. Notes many of the design benefits and weaknesses of metal packaging. http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html Packaging manufacturers have recently been attempting to highlight the benefits associated with their manufacturing process. Steel Towards a Closed Steel Eco Cycle http://www.mistra.org/mistra/english/research/activeprogrammes/towardsaclosedsteelecocycle.4.1eeb37210182cfc0d680007316.html Steel just startting to launch 30.05.2008�Steel for packaging industry launches sustainability positioning in Europe APEAL launched its sustainability positioning in Brussels on 28th May 2008, showcasing its unique position as an enabler for a sustainable 21st century.� Steelforpackaging.org BPA issues http://www.metal-pack.org/docs/pdf/00024936.PDF http://www.apeal.org/emc.asp?pageId=192

12. Strengths Source Renewable material, with potential certificates of sustainability Distribution Lightweight Use Flexible inexpensive EOL Recyclable Biodegradable Implementation Recycling in place Certificates of sustainability aid sourcing Weakness Source Renewable material, with potential certificates of sustainability Manufacturing Potential bleach and chlorine use Lots of water use Use Not as strong a barrier as alternatives EOL Recycling is limited because fibers break down Developments in Wood and Packaging Materials Life Cycle Inventories in Ecoinvent (9 pp) Roland Hischier; Hans-J�rg Althaus; Frank Werner Corresponding author:: Roland Hischier, EMPA, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research, LCA unit, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, CH-9014 St. Gallen (roland.hischier@empa.ch) DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1065/lca2004.11.181.6 Environmental Paper Network The State of the Paper Industry.� http://www.environmentalpaper.org/stateofthepaperindustry/confirm.htm WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. P 16-18 http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html Picture Credits: http://www.drevoobal.cz/karton/karton1.gif http://www.gogreencharleston.org/images/paperboard_collection.jpg Developments in Wood and Packaging Materials Life Cycle Inventories in Ecoinvent (9 pp) Roland Hischier; Hans-J�rg Althaus; Frank Werner Corresponding author:: Roland Hischier, EMPA, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research, LCA unit, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, CH-9014 St. Gallen (roland.hischier@empa.ch) DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1065/lca2004.11.181.6

13. Composite Packaging Strengths Source Renewable material, with potential certificates of sustainability Manufacturing Customizable Distribution Lightweight Use Wide variety, strong barrier properties Weakness (Many depend on composites being used) Use Not as strong a barrier as alternatives EOL Little use of recycled material Lack of recycling, reuse or composting abilities Implementation Lack of reuse, recycling or compostable infrastructure WRAP WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. P 21 http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html Composite packaging producers: www.tetrapak.com www.elopak.com www.sig.biz Photo credit: http://www.tetrapak.com/products_and_services/packages/pages/default.aspxWRAP WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. P 21 http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html Composite packaging producers: www.tetrapak.com www.elopak.com www.sig.biz Photo credit: http://www.tetrapak.com/products_and_services/packages/pages/default.aspx

14. Adhesives and Labels & Ink and Pigment Adhesives and Labels Difficult to remove for reuse or recycling Inks & Pigment Ultraviolet-curable inks Minimal odour Good adhesion Volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions reduced Requires more energy to dry and slower printing Water-based inks Volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions reduced Requires more energy to dry and slower printing Can be harder to remove for recycling Not good on non-absorbent plastic surfaces WRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. P 22-23 http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html Photo source: http://www.stickers-labels.co.uk/food-packaging-labels-450.jpg http://www.valleylabel.net/Images/products-layout-merge.jpg http://www.bestprintingfranchises.com/Printing_homepage_picture.jpgWRAP �Section 5 � Material considerations.� The Guide to Evolving Packaging Design. P 22-23 http://www.wrap.org.uk/retail/the_guide_to_evolving_packaging_design/material_considerations/index.html Photo source: http://www.stickers-labels.co.uk/food-packaging-labels-450.jpg http://www.valleylabel.net/Images/products-layout-merge.jpg http://www.bestprintingfranchises.com/Printing_homepage_picture.jpg

15. Beyond Comparisons This breif survey of the common concerns and advantages associated with the material�s manufacturing processes and material properties hints at the breadth of issues being addressed There are many life cycle assesments and comparison studies which note the differences between certain packaging instances, but the strive towards sustainable packaing is not as simple as redesigning one�s product to choose the best material and using the least amount of it necessary for one�s purpose. Good redesign guidelines exsist, but a sustainable product must work towards a state to meet environmental, economic and social requirements. Striving towards such a state may require reducing the amount of tradeoffs necessary though new innovations. It is certain that the current practices are not suffiencient. Diagram 1 Citation: World Centric �PLA Energy Usage Comparison: From Earth to Pellet: Comparing Resource Requirements between PLA, PP, PET and EPS Products.� http://worldcentric.org/sustainability/manufacturing/PLA Energy use for plastics & other materials diagram citation: PLASTICS INSTITUTE OF AMERICA PLASTICS ENGINEERING, MANUFACTURING & DATA HANDBOOK Diagram 1 Citation: World Centric �PLA Energy Usage Comparison: From Earth to Pellet: Comparing Resource Requirements between PLA, PP, PET and EPS Products.� http://worldcentric.org/sustainability/manufacturing/PLA Energy use for plastics & other materials diagram citation: PLASTICS INSTITUTE OF AMERICA PLASTICS ENGINEERING, MANUFACTURING & DATA HANDBOOK

16. Overview Information Infrastructure Incentives, Policies, Standards � � IX Primary Challenges for Change

17. Primary Challenges for Change A lack of guidance and action hinder creating the momentum for the large-scale changes that needs to take place. Primary challenges for government, industry and individuals center around: Lack of information Missing infrastructure Insufficient incentives, conflicting policies and standards Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (April 30, 2008). �Green packaging claims.� Transcript. Washington, DC. ��http://htc- 01.media.globix.net/COMP008760MOD1/ftc_web/transcripts/043008_sess1.pdf ������������ Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (April 30, 2008). �Green packaging claims.� Transcript. Washington, DC. ��http://htc- 01.media.globix.net/COMP008760MOD1/ftc_web/transcripts/043008_sess1.pdf ������������

18. Lack of Information Plenty of critiques, comparisons, and vilification, but a lack of packaging solutions New packaging materials are not necessarily well known by consumers, addressed by regulations or easily available by potential buyers Current labeling environment confuses consumers Existing resin codes are difficult for consumers to understand (Ex: �Is #1 the best to buy?�) In the US, claims of biodegradable, degradable, compostable, biomaterial, biopolymers, renewable plastics are not well understood and often misused. (Ex: Biodegregation does not occur everywhere.) Government guidance is limited. Green guides are out of date, and often support vague measures (for example: it is near impossible to measure % of population actually recycling one�s product) No laws similar to EU packaging directives or regulation on sharing environmental responsibility in supply chain exist Greenwashing among companies trying to meet consumer demand is rampant Understanding of issues in terms of resource management, lifecycle impacts or the concept of �sustainability� is limited and varying. Focus is on waste management. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (April 30, 2008). �Green packaging claims.� Transcript. Washington, DC. ��http://htc- 01.media.globix.net/COMP008760MOD1/ftc_web/transcripts/043008_sess1.pdfFederal Trade Commission (FTC) (April 30, 2008). �Green packaging claims.� Transcript. Washington, DC. ��http://htc- 01.media.globix.net/COMP008760MOD1/ftc_web/transcripts/043008_sess1.pdf

19. Missing Infrastructure Recycling infrastructure incomplete Many more materials can be recycled than there are facilities for in most regions Company voluntary activities (Certification, Takeback Policies) can require significant costs and �reinvention of the wheel� Composting infrastructure is rare Without this bioplastics that can only be composted in industrial facilities will either pollute the plastics recycling stream or contribute to landfills Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (April 30, 2008). �Green packaging claims.� Transcript. Washington, DC. ��http://htc- 01.media.globix.net/COMP008760MOD1/ftc_web/transcripts/043008_sess1.pdf Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (April 30, 2008). �Green packaging claims.� Transcript. Washington, DC. ��http://htc- 01.media.globix.net/COMP008760MOD1/ftc_web/transcripts/043008_sess1.pdf

20. Insufficient Incentives, Conflicting policies & standards Few incentives, other than individual company goals or costs-saving measures for voluntary action Measures with teeth are needed to combat inertia towards the status-quo At present change or compliance with green guide regulations is motivated by forward-thinking producers and consumers who do not mind research Standards with clear definitions (biocompostable vs. compostable vs. home compostable) quantitative metrics (GHG etc), guides on action (what type of LCA) At present the USDA defines a biobased product, the ASTN sets standards about biodegradability�these are not necessarily coordinated together nor with an national concept/goal of sustainability Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (April 30, 2008). �Green packaging claims.� Transcript. Washington, DC. ��http://htc- 01.media.globix.net/COMP008760MOD1/ftc_web/transcripts/043008_sess1.pdf Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (April 30, 2008). �Green packaging claims.� Transcript. Washington, DC. ��http://htc- 01.media.globix.net/COMP008760MOD1/ftc_web/transcripts/043008_sess1.pdf