Industry News: U.S. Demand for Natural Polymers to Hit $4 Billion
Demand in the United States for natural polymers is expected to grow 7.1% annually to reach $4 billion in 2012, reports The Freedonia Group in a recent study.
According to Freedonia, opportunities for using natural polymers in packaging will grow as a result of increased availability and cost competitiveness. However, further growth of the natural polymer market will be threatened by climatic and political uncertainties, as well as competition from synthetic alternatives. The majority of supply will come from imports.
Demand for starch and fermentation products will expand at a double-digit pace. This growth will be based on greater availability and improved production technologies for polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA) and starch blends. PLA will see significant growth in packaging areas such as thermoformed containers. Falling prices will also boost volume demand, Freedonia says.
More January/February 2009 Industry News
New Packages Seen at Luxe Pack Monaco
CPC Packaging Welcomes New Editorial Board Members
Association Advises Case-by-Case Assessment of Bioplastics