bioplasticsMAGAZINE_0702

Editorial
dear readers
Some 15 years ago, when the PET bottle really started to take off, the
arguments in its favour were obvious. Compared to glass, the plastic
bottles are lightweight, unbreakable and easy to carry because of their
neck-ring. PET also has certain environmental advantages too - the
lower weight reduces diesel consumption during transport, and PET
melts at a temperature significantly lower than glass, so using less
energy when bottles are initially produced and recycled.
And now one more point can be added to the list of arguments in favour
of plastic bottles. PLA, as an alternative plastic, is made from renewable
resources - mainly starch derived from corn, sugar cane, sugar beet
or even sweet potatoes. Not only is PLA made from products that can
be relatively easily grown and therefore readily renewable, but after its
initial use it can be recycled, composted under certain conditions, or
cleanly incinerated with energy recovery.
A number of beverage and dairy companies are evaluating the use of
this rather new material, or already use PLA for bottle applications.
The special editorial focus in this issue of bioplastics MAGAZINE is on
bottle applications, including the use of bio-sourced and biodegradable
labels and caps. We talked to five of the early pioneers that now use
PLA for their bottles, and asked them about their motivation, their
experiences and their future plans. All five still consider the decision
to go for PLA as the right one.
Those interested to learn more about PLA for bottles,
bioplastic labels and caps, or who wish to discuss
barrier issues, end of life options and many more
detailed aspects than are covered in this issue, are
cordially invited to the 1st PLA Bottle Conference
organised by bioplastics MAGAZINE. We are running the
two-day conference on the 12th and 13th of September in
Hamburg, Germany. Please visit our website for details.
Special editorial Focus:
Bottles, Labels, Caps | 10
02 | 2007
Vol. 2 ISSN 1862-5258
And in this, our fourth issue, you’ll also find more of the
latest bioplastics news, updates on materials, processing,
events and much more – and not only about bottles!
Michael Thielen
Publisher
bioplastics MAGAZINE
Bioplastics vs. agricultural land | 36
Logos, Part 4 | 38
bioplastics MAGAZINE [02/07] Vol. 2