Are Bioplastics a Sustainable Alternative to Single-Use Plastic? A Pilot Project at the University of South Florida

Abstract

Campaigns to ban single-use plastics have spread globally, increasing awareness about plastic pollution and driving consumer demand for bioplastics alternatives. Consumer perception is that plastics derived from plants are compostable. Biodegradable and compostable products are not the same. Arguably, everything will eventually biodegrade. Compostable, however, signifies that the product will decompose into the soil within a timeframe. A University of South Florida (USF) pilot research study has launched investigating the efficacy of single-use bioplastics in a home compost environment. The results will provide consumers with green product recommendations, call attention to the interdependence between bioplastics and Industrial Composting Facilities, and encourage behavior supportive of sustainable, reusable alternatives aligned with the SDG’s.