Over the past century, plastics have become widely used for their durability and convenience. Bioplastics, which are biodegradable or have biobased content, have gained momentum in the past 25 years. The introduction of polylactic acid (PLA) surgical sutures in the 1960s marked a significant milestone. Companies invested in bioplastics research in the 1970s and 1980s. Guidelines were developed to address environmental claims, and organizations promoted biodegradable plastics. In the 21st century, sustainability concerns have accelerated bioplastics’ development. The SPI Bioplastics Council published an overview guide covering trends, applications, manufacturers, and market growth.
