The Rise of Bio-plastic Products in Australian Agriculture: A Sustainable Revolution

Bio-plastic Products in Australian Agriculture

Australia’s agricultural sector is a vital contributor to its economy, employing thousands and producing goods worth billions annually. However, traditional agricultural practices, particularly the use of conventional plastics, have raised environmental concerns due to their persistence in the environment and contribution to pollution. Bioplastics—materials derived from renewable biomass sources like corn starch, sugarcane, or cellulose—offer a sustainable alternative. These materials, usually biodegradable and/or compostable, are increasingly being adopted in Australian agriculture for applications such as mulch films, seedling trays, and packaging. This article delves into the reasons behind the rise of bioplastics, their benefits, challenges, recent trends, and the future outlook for their use in Australian agriculture.

What Are Bioplastics?

Bioplastics are a family of materials that are either bio-based (derived from renewable resources), biodegradable, or both. Unlike conventional plastics, which are made from fossil fuels and can take centuries to decompose, bioplastics are designed to have a lower environmental impact. Common bioplastics used in agriculture include:

• Mater-Bi™: A bioplastic made from plant-based components like starch and cellulose, used in mulch films and other agricultural applications. Mater-Bi is a family of biodegradable and compostable plastics. It's produced by Novamont in Italy and is made from renewable materials like starches, cellulose, and vegetable oils. Mater-Bi is designed to break down under composting conditions, making it suitable for applications where traditional plastics might contaminate the environment or organic waste. Australian Bio Plastics products are made from Mater-Bi because of it’s quality and ability to biodegrade and compost.
• Polylactic Acid (PLA): Derived from corn starch or sugarcane, PLA is biodegradable and widely used for packaging and mulch films.
• Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA): Produced by microbial fermentation, PHA is biodegradable in various environments, including soil and marine settings.

These materials are certified to meet standards like the Australian Standard for Commercial Composting (AS4736) and Home Composting (AS5810-2010), ensuring they break down into non-toxic components like CO2, water, and biomass within specific timeframes.

The Growing Adoption of Bioplastics in Australian Agriculture

The adoption of bioplastics in Australian agriculture has been driven by several factors, including environmental awareness, regulatory support, and technological advancements. Below are the key drivers behind this trend:

1. Environmental Concerns and Plastic Pollution

Conventional plastics, such as polyethylene mulch films, have been widely used in agriculture for decades to control weeds, retain soil moisture, and enhance crop yields. However, these plastics often remain in the environment, fragmenting into microplastics that harm soil health and ecosystems. In Australia, where agriculture spans vast areas, the accumulation of plastic waste has become a significant issue. Bioplastics offer a solution by decomposing naturally, reducing landfill waste and microplastic pollution. For example, biodegradable mulch films break down into organic matter, contributing to soil health rather than degrading it.

2. Government Regulations and Sustainability Initiatives

Australian governments, both federal and state, have introduced policies to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable materials. Initiatives like the National Plastics Plan and bans on single-use plastics have encouraged the adoption of bioplastics. Additionally, the Australian Agriculture Sustainability Framework and mandatory climate reporting (phased in from January 2025) emphasize sustainable practices, pushing farmers to adopt eco-friendly alternatives like bioplastics. Grants and funding for research into biodegradable materials further support this shift.

3. Consumer and Market Demand

Australian consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability. This demand extends to agricultural products, where buyers favour producers using sustainable practices. Major retailers and food chains (Coles and Woolworths), have committed to reducing conventional plastic use, driving demand for bioplastic packaging and agricultural inputs. For instance, Oz Fresh Herbs has used biodegradable mulch films since 2012 for heirloom tomatoes and edible flowers, aligning with consumer preferences for sustainable produce.

4. Technological Advancements

Innovations in bioplastic production have improved their performance and cost-effectiveness. For example, companies like Novamont have developed Mater-Bi™, a bioplastic that meets Australian standards (AS4736-2006) and performs comparably to traditional plastics while being fully biodegradable. Advances in PLA and PHA formulations have also enhanced durability, UV resistance, and soil compatibility, making bioplastics more viable for agricultural applications.

Applications of Bioplastics in Australian Agriculture

Bioplastics are being integrated into various agricultural practices, transforming how farmers operate. Key applications include:

1. Mulch Films

Biodegradable mulch films, such as those made from Mater-Bi™, are widely used in horticulture to suppress weeds, conserve water, and regulate soil temperature. Unlike polyethylene films, which require removal and disposal, biodegradable films decompose in situ, reducing labour costs and environmental impact. It is common for Polyethylene films to be burned on site or require significant costs to pull film and truck to landfill, a key driver for the transition to Mater-Bi™ Biodegradable and Compostable mulch films.

2. Seedling Trays and Plant Pots

Bioplastic seedling trays and pots, often made from PLA or starch-based materials, provide a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic trays. These products decompose naturally, eliminating the need for disposal and reducing plastic waste in nurseries.

3. Packaging

Bioplastics like PLA are used for packaging fresh produce, offering transparency and strength comparable to conventional plastics. These materials are compostable, aligning with Australia’s push for circular economy practices. The Australasian Bioplastics Association (ABA) promotes the “seedling logo” to certify compostable packaging, increasing consumer trust.

4. Silage Wraps

Biodegradable silage wraps, thicker and stronger than traditional wraps, have gained popularity for their ability to store silage longer while decomposing naturally. This reduces plastic waste in livestock farming, a significant sector in Australia.

Benefits of Bioplastics in Agriculture

The shift to bioplastics offers numerous benefits for Australian agriculture:

• Reduced Environmental Impact: Bioplastics decompose within months, reducing landfill waste and microplastic pollution compared to conventional plastics, which can persist for centuries.
• Improved Soil Health: As biodegradable bioplastics break down, they add organic matter to the soil, enhancing fertility and structure.
• Water Conservation: Biodegradable mulch films help retain soil moisture, critical in Australia’s drought-prone regions.
• Lower Carbon Footprint: Bio-based bioplastics, derived from renewable resources, produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than fossil fuel-based plastics.
• Alignment with Sustainability Goals: Using bioplastics supports Australia’s sustainability frameworks, enhancing the sector’s global competitiveness.

Is bioplastic more expensive?

Bioplastics are more expensive to produce than conventional plastics due to complex manufacturing processes. This can deter cost-sensitive farmers, particularly small-scale operations. However, in many cases—such as 2025 comparisons of biodegradable mulch films—when factoring in savings on labour and disposal, the total end-of-season cost is often lower than that of using traditional polyethylene mulch film.

Recent Trends in Bioplastic Use

The bioplastics market in Australian agriculture is evolving rapidly, with several notable trends:

1. Strategic Partnerships

Collaborations between agricultural firms and bioplastic manufacturers are driving innovation. For example, the CSIRO’s Bioplastics Innovation Hub, established with Murdoch University, is developing 100% compostable plastics for both industrial and home composting. Such partnerships enhance product development and market reach.

2. Innovations in Materials

Recent advancements include UV-resistant bioplastics that degrade in diverse environments. Advances in MATER-BI bioplastic technology has meant that bioplastics used in mulch film and silage wrap performs on par with traditional plastics across all Australian conditions.

3. Market Growth

The global bioplastics market is projected to grow significantly, with Australia’s market expected to expand at a CAGR of 7.6% from 2025 to 2031. The agricultural segment, valued at USD 0.9 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 1.5 billion by 2035, driven by demand for biodegradable mulch films and pots.

4. Policy Support

Government incentives, such as grants for sustainable agriculture and bans on single-use plastics, are accelerating bioplastic adoption. The EU’s Single-Use Plastics Directive and similar policies globally are influencing Australian markets, encouraging local producers to innovate.

Case Studies: Bioplastics in Action

• Oz Fresh Herbs: Since 2012, this Australian grower has used biodegradable mulch films for tomatoes and edible flowers, reducing plastic waste and labour costs associated with film removal.
• Australian Bio-Plastics: Produces Mater-Bi™-based mulch films that meet Australian standards, offering a sustainable alternative for horticulturalists across the country.
• CSIRO’s Bioplastics Innovation Hub: This initiative is developing compostable bioplastics tailored for Australian conditions, with potential applications in broadacre and horticultural farming.

Future Outlook

The future of bioplastics in Australian agriculture is promising, with significant growth expected over the next decade. The market is projected to reach several billion dollars globally, with Australia’s agricultural sector playing a key role. Key factors shaping this future include:

• Improved Infrastructure: Expanding industrial composting facilities will enhance the end-of-life management of bioplastics, reducing landfill reliance.
• Cost Reduction: Advances in production technologies and economies of scale will lower bioplastic costs, making them more competitive with conventional plastics.
• Non-Food Feedstocks: Research into using agricultural waste and non-food crops will alleviate concerns about feedstock competition, boosting sustainability.
• Consumer-Driven Demand: As consumer awareness grows, demand for sustainably produced agricultural goods will drive bioplastic adoption.

 

The rise of bioplastics in Australian agriculture marks a significant step toward a more sustainable future. By reducing plastic pollution, improving soil health, and aligning with global sustainability goals, bioplastics are transforming farming practices. While challenges like high costs and limited infrastructure persist, ongoing innovations, strategic partnerships, and supportive policies are paving the way for broader adoption. As Australia continues to prioritize environmental stewardship, bioplastics will play a crucial role in ensuring the agricultural sector remains productive, profitable, and sustainable for generations to come.

References:

• CSIRO, “The State of Bioplastics in Australia,” 2024.
• Australasian Bioplastics Association, “Home - ABA,” 2015.
• Australian Bio-Plastics, “Replacing Conventional Plastics in Agriculture,” 2019.
• Market Research Intellect, “Horticulture Bioplastic Market Size and Projection,” 2024.

6Wresearch, “Australia Bioplastics Market Size, Share & Analysis 2031,” 2025.