Bio-based material producers face a unique challenge: the environmental credentials that define their commercial proposition need to be rigorously verified, not just claimed.
Green claims without data are becoming a liability
Bio-based materials, from bioplastics and natural fibre composites to bio-derived chemicals and agricultural packaging, are often positioned on their environmental credentials. But procurement teams, brand owners and regulators are increasingly demanding that those credentials be substantiated with verified data. The EU Green Claims Directive and incoming digital product passport requirements mean that “bio-based” is no longer sufficient on its own. Companies need to demonstrate actual environmental performance across multiple impact categories, including land use, water consumption and end-of-life impacts that are often overlooked in simple carbon comparisons.
Promising materials, complex impact profiles
Bio-based materials cover a wide range of product types at different stages of commercial maturity. Development-stage companies often need LCA data early in their R&D process to guide design decisions before scale-up. Commercial producers need verified EPDs to access procurement programmes and substantiate marketing claims. And companies transitioning customers from fossil-based equivalents need credible comparative data that can withstand scrutiny.
EU Green Claims Directive
Claims like “biodegradable”, “carbon neutral”, “sustainable” and “eco-friendly” will require substantiation under the EU Green Claims Directive. For bio-based material producers, an LCA is the minimum defensible basis for these claims.
Hotspot analysis at R&D stage
For development-stage companies, an LCA conducted before design decisions are locked in can identify the most impactful parameters and guide investment in the areas that will make the biggest difference at commercial scale.
Procurement access
Packaging buyers, construction specifiers and consumer goods brands are increasingly requiring EPDs from bio-based material suppliers. An EPD opens doors that a marketing claim alone cannot.
| Impact Category | Fossil-based (PE) | Bio-based (PLA) |
|---|---|---|
| Climate change (kg CO₂eq per kg) | 2.5 | 1.3 |
| Land use (Pt) | Negligible | Moderate |
| Fossil resource depletion (kg oil-eq) | 1.8 | 0.2 |
| Water consumption (m³) | 0.01 | 0.09 |
Figures are illustrative and for explanatory purposes only.
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