SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): A new study conducted by researchers from Kyushu University, in partnership with Sotas Co., Ltd. - a Yokohama-based startup highlighted the potentials of green bioplastics to contain plastic waste in Japan. It also called for radical changes in the country’s policies.
The recommendations of the study are aimed at helping the country meet its ambitious goal to attain carbon neutrality by 2050. Incidentally, Japan is ranked second among world countries in per capita plastic waste generation.
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The study noted that the traditional ways practised in the country to get rid of plastic waste, mainly thermal recycling and incineration, often leads to release of huge quantities of toxic carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Upon extensive studies based on six common plastic types, the research found that switching to more sustainable recycled plastics and bioplastics is a competitive and effective alternative.
According to the study, bioplastics could be a potential alternative, especially due to their lowest global warming potential. The researchers even identified that certain variants of bioplastics exhibited carbon negativity. However, the higher production costs associated with bioplastics could dampen prospects of their widespread use, it said.
Studies indicate that the Japanese population is willing to pay more for environment-friendly bioplastics.
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