Stable Supply and More Competitive Prices

Biodegradable polymer prices are generally much higher than commodity polymers for a number of reasons. Most biopolymers have only been commercially available for a couple of years and production volumes are very low compared with the mass produced polyolefins. Initial development costs are also very high. 

PLA biodegradable polymer prices have fallen sharply over the last five years since the polymers were first commercialised. NatureWorks PLA is now available at prices between 1.37-2.75 per kg compared to a price range of 3.0-3.5 per kg five years ago. Another factor that is encouraging uptake is the stability of maize prices versus petroleum-based polymers. NatureWorks PLA has been price competitive with PET for example over the last twelve months as PLA manufacturing scale has increased and process improvements were made alongside the recent sustained higher levels of PET pricing. 

NatureWorks claims these trends are encouraging many customers to seek multi-year contracts to ensure a more stable raw material supply and secure a predictable cost position for their own packaging materials. 

One of the cheapest biopolymers is Solanyl, produced by Rodenburg Biopolymers, which costs between 0.8-1.5 per kg. Solanyl prices are so low because it uses scrap potato peel, a very cheap source of raw material. FkuR s PLA/polyester blends, on the other hand, cost between 2.85-3.70 per kg. 

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