Cross-Cutting Topic 7

Cross-Cutting Topic 7: Biodegradability

Objectives

• Preparation of a joint paper on the current state of research with regard to biodegradability
• Making concrete recommendations, e.g. on the use of specific terms
• Discussion of useful application fields for biodegradable plastics
• Identification of knowledge gaps and limits to the use of biodegradable plastics

Results

A status paper (German language) on the biodegradability of plastics summarizes the key findings of the work. It addresses, for example, definitions and delineation of terms, biodegradable plastics, biodegradability of conventional plastics, and biodegradability in different environments. The paper also provides an overview of existing standards and regulations.

The results have also been incorporated into the following Research Focus publications:

• Plastics in the Environment - Kompendium
• Key messages