The Global Sustainable Packaging Materials Market 2026-2036

1             EXECUTIVE SUMMARY            31

• 1.1        Global Packaging Market       31
• 1.2        What is sustainable packaging?       32
• 1.3        The Global Market for Sustainable Packaging          34
  • 1.3.1    By packaging materials           34
    • 1.3.1.1 Tonnes                34
    • 1.3.1.2 Revenues          35
  • 1.3.2    By packaging product type    37
    • 1.3.2.1 Tonnes                37
    • 1.3.2.2 Revenues          37
  • 1.3.3    By end-use market     38
    • 1.3.3.1 Tonnes                39
    • 1.3.3.2 Revenues          39
  • 1.3.4    By region           41
    • 1.3.4.1 Tonnes                41
    • 1.3.4.2 Revenues          42
• 1.4        Main types       42
  • 1.4.1    Cellulose acetate        44
  • 1.4.2    PLA       44
  • 1.4.3    Aliphatic-aromatic co-polyesters     45
  • 1.4.4    PHA      45
  • 1.4.5    Starch/starch blends 45
• 1.5        Prices  46
• 1.6        Commercial products              47
• 1.7        Market Trends                50
• 1.8        Market Drivers for recent growth in Sustainable Packaging            51
• 1.9        Challenges for Biodegradable and Compostable Packaging         52

2             INTRODUCTION          54

• 2.1        Market overview           55
• 2.2        Types of sustainable packaging materials  55
  • 2.2.1    Biodegradable and Compostable Materials              56
    • 2.2.1.1 PLA (Polylactic Acid) 56
    • 2.2.1.2 Bagasse            56
    • 2.2.1.3 Mushroom Packaging              58
    • 2.2.1.4 Seaweed-Based Materials    59
  • 2.2.2    Paper and Fiber-Based Materials      61
    • 2.2.2.1 Recycled Paper/Cardboard  61
    • 2.2.2.2 Molded Pulp   62
    • 2.2.2.3 Bamboo Packaging   63
  • 2.2.3    Bio-Based Plastics     64
    • 2.2.3.1 Bio-PE and Bio-PET    64
    • 2.2.3.2 PHAs (Polyhydroxyalkanoates)          66
  • 2.2.4    Reusable and Upcycled Materials   67
    • 2.2.4.1 Glass   67
    • 2.2.4.2 Aluminum        68
    • 2.2.4.3 Upcycled Agricultural Waste               70
  • 2.2.5    Other Materials            72
    • 2.2.5.1 Edible Packaging         72
    • 2.2.5.2 Cellulose-Based Films            73
    • 2.2.5.3 Algae-Based Materials             74
  • 2.2.6    Sustainable Barrier Coatings               75
    • 2.2.6.1 Thermoplastic polymer coatings      75
    • 2.2.6.2 High barrier polymer coatings (Green PVOH/EVOH)            76
    • 2.2.6.3 Aluminium barrier coatings  77
    • 2.2.6.4 Wax coatings  78
    • 2.2.6.5 Silicone and natural material coatings          80
    • 2.2.6.6 Biobased barrier polymers    81
  • 2.2.7    Sustainable Packaging Adhesives    81
    • 2.2.7.1 Waterborne adhesives             81
      • 2.2.7.1.1           Acrylic-copolymer adhesives             81
      • 2.2.7.1.2           VAE (vinyl acetate ethylene) adhesives         82
      • 2.2.7.1.3           PVAc (polyvinyl acetate) adhesives 83
      • 2.2.7.1.4           Natural-based adhesives       84
    • 2.2.7.2 Solvent-borne/reactive systems       85
      • 2.2.7.2.1           Acrylic adhesives        85
      • 2.2.7.2.2           Synthetic elastomer adhesives         86
      • 2.2.7.2.3           Polyurethane adhesives         87
    • 2.2.7.3 Hot melt adhesives    87
      • 2.2.7.3.1           EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) hot melts          87
      • 2.2.7.3.2           Polyolefin hot melts   88
      • 2.2.7.3.3           Bio-based hot melts  89
      • 2.2.7.3.4           Polyamide hot melts 90
    • 2.2.7.4 Radiation-curable adhesives              90
      • 2.2.7.4.1           UV-curable systems  90
      • 2.2.7.4.2           Electron beam curable adhesives    91
• 2.3        Packaging lifecycle     92
  • 2.3.1    Raw materials               93
  • 2.3.2    Manufacturing              94
  • 2.3.3    Transport          95
  • 2.3.4    Packaging in-use         96
  • 2.3.5    End of life         96

3             SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS IN PACKAGING  97

• 3.1        Materials innovation 97
• 3.2        Active packaging         98
• 3.3        Monomaterial packaging       98
• 3.4        Conventional polymer materials used in packaging            98
  • 3.4.1    Polyolefins: Polypropylene and polyethylene            99
    • 3.4.1.1 Overview           99
    • 3.4.1.2 Grades               100
    • 3.4.1.3 Producers         100
  • 3.4.2    PET and other polyester polymers   101
    • 3.4.2.1 Overview           101
  • 3.4.3    Renewable and bio-based polymers for packaging             102
  • 3.4.4    Comparison of synthetic fossil-based and bio-based polymers  103
  • 3.4.5    Processes for bioplastics in packaging        104
  • 3.4.6    End-of-life treatment of bio-based and sustainable packaging   105
• 3.5        Synthetic bio-based packaging materials   106
  • 3.5.1    Polylactic acid (Bio-PLA)        106
    • 3.5.1.1 Overview           106
    • 3.5.1.2 Properties         107
    • 3.5.1.3 Applications   107
    • 3.5.1.4 Advantages     108
    • 3.5.1.5 Challenges      108
    • 3.5.1.6 Commercial examples            109
  • 3.5.2    Polyethylene terephthalate (Bio-PET)            109
    • 3.5.2.1 Overview           109
    • 3.5.2.2 Properties         110
    • 3.5.2.3 Applications   110
    • 3.5.2.4 Advantages of Bio-PET in Packaging              111
    • 3.5.2.5 Challenges and Limitations 111
    • 3.5.2.6 Commercial examples            112
  • 3.5.3    Polytrimethylene terephthalate (Bio-PTT)   112
    • 3.5.3.1 Overview           112
    • 3.5.3.2 Production Process   113
    • 3.5.3.3 Properties         113
    • 3.5.3.4 Applications   113
    • 3.5.3.5 Advantages of Bio-PTT in Packaging               114
    • 3.5.3.6 Challenges and Limitations 114
    • 3.5.3.7 Commercial examples            114
  • 3.5.4    Polyethylene furanoate (Bio-PEF)     115
    • 3.5.4.1 Overview           115
    • 3.5.4.2 Properties         115
    • 3.5.4.3 Applications   115
    • 3.5.4.4 Advantages of Bio-PEF in Packaging              116
    • 3.5.4.5 Challenges and Limitations 116
    • 3.5.4.6 Commercial examples            116
  • 3.5.5    Bio-PA 116
    • 3.5.5.1 Overview           116
    • 3.5.5.2 Properties         117
    • 3.5.5.3 Applications in Packaging     117
    • 3.5.5.4 Advantages of Bio-PA in Packaging 118
    • 3.5.5.5 Challenges and Limitations 118
    • 3.5.5.6 Commercial examples            118
  • 3.5.6    Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (Bio-PBAT)- Aliphatic aromatic copolyesters                118
    • 3.5.6.1 Overview           118
    • 3.5.6.2 Properties         119
    • 3.5.6.3 Applications in Packaging     119
    • 3.5.6.4 Advantages of Bio-PBAT in Packaging           119
    • 3.5.6.5 Challenges and Limitations 120
    • 3.5.6.6 Commercial examples            120
  • 3.5.7    Polybutylene succinate (PBS) and copolymers       120
    • 3.5.7.1 Overview           120
    • 3.5.7.2 Properties         121
    • 3.5.7.3 Applications in Packaging     121
    • 3.5.7.4 Advantages of Bio-PBS and Co-polymers in Packaging     121
    • 3.5.7.5 Challenges and Limitations 122
    • 3.5.7.6 Commercial examples            122
  • 3.5.8    Polypropylene (Bio-PP)            122
    • 3.5.8.1 Overview           122
    • 3.5.8.2 Properties         123
    • 3.5.8.3 Applications in Packaging     123
    • 3.5.8.4 Advantages of Bio-PP in Packaging 123
    • 3.5.8.5 Challenges and Limitations 123
    • 3.5.8.6 Commercial examples            124
• 3.6        Natural bio-based packaging materials       124
  • 3.6.1    Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)             124
    • 3.6.1.1 Properties         125
    • 3.6.1.2 Applications in Packaging     125
    • 3.6.1.3 Advantages of PHA in Packaging      126
    • 3.6.1.4 Challenges and Limitations 126
    • 3.6.1.5 Commercial examples            127
  • 3.6.2    Starch-based blends 127
    • 3.6.2.1 Overview           127
    • 3.6.2.2 Properties         128
    • 3.6.2.3 Applications in Packaging     128
    • 3.6.2.4 Advantages of Starch-Based Blends in Packaging 128
    • 3.6.2.5 Challenges and Limitations 128
    • 3.6.2.6 Commercial examples            129
  • 3.6.3    Cellulose          129
    • 3.6.3.1 Feedstocks      129
      • 3.6.3.1.1           Wood  129
      • 3.6.3.1.2           Plant    129
      • 3.6.3.1.3           Tunicate             130
      • 3.6.3.1.4           Algae   130
      • 3.6.3.1.5           Bacteria             131
    • 3.6.3.2 Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC)        132
      • 3.6.3.2.1           Properties         132
    • 3.6.3.3 Nanocellulose               132
      • 3.6.3.3.1           Cellulose nanocrystals           132
        • 3.6.3.3.1.1      Applications in packaging     133
      • 3.6.3.3.2           Cellulose nanofibers 134
        • 3.6.3.3.2.1      Applications in packaging     135
      • 3.6.3.3.3           Bacterial Nanocellulose (BNC)          140
        • 3.6.3.3.3.1      Applications in packaging     143
    • 3.6.3.4 Commercial examples            144
  • 3.6.4    Protein-based bioplastics in packaging       144
    • 3.6.4.1 Feedstocks      144
    • 3.6.4.2 Commercial examples            146
  • 3.6.5    Lipids and waxes for packaging         146
    • 3.6.5.1 Overview           146
    • 3.6.5.2 Commercial examples            147
  • 3.6.6    Seaweed-based packaging  147
    • 3.6.6.1 Overview           147
    • 3.6.6.2 Production       148
    • 3.6.6.3 Applications in packaging     148
    • 3.6.6.4 Producers         149
  • 3.6.7    Mycelium          149
    • 3.6.7.1 Overview           149
    • 3.6.7.2 Applications in packaging     150
    • 3.6.7.3 Commercial examples            151
  • 3.6.8    Chitosan           151
    • 3.6.8.1 Overview           151
    • 3.6.8.2 Applications in packaging     152
    • 3.6.8.3 Commercial examples            152
  • 3.6.9    Bio-naphtha   153
    • 3.6.9.1 Overview           153
    • 3.6.9.2 Markets and applications      154
    • 3.6.9.3 Commercial examples            155
• 3.7        Sustainable Barrier Coatings               156
  • 3.7.1    Substrates: Paper and Plastic             156
    • 3.7.1.1 Paper substrate characteristics and coating requirements             156
    • 3.7.1.2 Plastic substrate applications and sustainability challenges        157
    • 3.7.1.3 Substrate selection criteria and performance trade-offs 158
  • 3.7.2    Extrusion Barrier Coatings    158
  • 3.7.3    Thermoplastic Polymers        159
  • 3.7.4    Aluminium       160
  • 3.7.5    Waxes 161
  • 3.7.6    Silicone and Other Natural Materials             162
  • 3.7.7    High Barrier Polymers              162
  • 3.7.8    Wet-Barrier Coatings 163
    • 3.7.8.1 Application methods and process optimization     163
    • 3.7.8.2 Performance benchmarking against alternatives  164
    • 3.7.8.3 Environmental impact assessment 164
    • 3.7.8.4 Market adoption patterns      165
  • 3.7.9    Wax Coating   165
  • 3.7.10 Barrier Metallisation 169
    • 3.7.10.1            Technology overview and application scope             169
    • 3.7.10.2            Performance advantages in barrier applications   169
    • 3.7.10.3            Sustainability challenges and recycling impact      170
  • 3.7.11 Biodegradable, biobased and recyclable coatings                171
  • 3.7.12 Monolayer Coatings  176
  • 3.7.13 Current Technology State-of-the-Art               176
    • 3.7.13.1            Water-based coating technologies  176
    • 3.7.13.2            Bio-based polymer solutions              178
      • 3.7.13.2.1        Polysaccharides          180
        • 3.7.13.2.1.1   Chitin  181
        • 3.7.13.2.1.2   Chitosan           181
        • 3.7.13.2.1.3   Starch 181
      • 3.7.13.2.2        Poly(lactic acid) (PLA)              181
      • 3.7.13.2.3        Poly(butylene Succinate         182
      • 3.7.13.2.4        Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)             182
      • 3.7.13.2.5        Alginate              183
      • 3.7.13.2.6        Cellulose Acetate        184
      • 3.7.13.2.7        Protein-Based (Soy, Wheat)  184
      • 3.7.13.2.8        Bio-PE (Polyethylene)               185
      • 3.7.13.2.9        Bio-PET              186
      • 3.7.13.2.10     Lignin-Based Polymers            186
      • 3.7.13.2.11     Bacterial Cellulose     187
      • 3.7.13.2.12     Furan-Based Polymers (PEF)               187
      • 3.7.13.2.13     Tannin-Based Polymers          188
    • 3.7.13.3            Dispersion Coating Systems               189
    • 3.7.13.4            Nano-enhanced Barrier Materials   190
• 3.8        Sustainable Adhesive Technologies                193
  • 3.8.1    Bio-based adhesive raw materials   193
    • 3.8.1.1 Plant-based polyols  193
    • 3.8.1.2 Natural rubber latex   194
    • 3.8.1.3 Soy-based adhesives               195
    • 3.8.1.4 Casein-based adhesives        195
  • 3.8.2    Performance requirements for packaging adhesives          196
    • 3.8.2.1 Bond strength specifications              196
    • 3.8.2.2 Temperature resistance          197
    • 3.8.2.3 Chemical resistance 198
    • 3.8.2.4 Food contact compliance     198
  • 3.8.3    Sustainable adhesive development trends                199
    • 3.8.3.1 Vinyl acetate monomer/ethylene developments    199
    • 3.8.3.2 Acrylate innovations 200
    • 3.8.3.3 Bio-based polyurethane systems     201
    • 3.8.3.4 Recycling-compatible formulations               202

4             SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING RECYCLING       203

• 4.1        Mechanical recycling                204
  • 4.1.1    Closed-loop mechanical recycling  205
  • 4.1.2    Open-loop mechanical recycling      205
  • 4.1.3    Polymer types, use, and recovery     205
• 4.2        Advanced chemical recycling             206
  • 4.2.1    Main streams of plastic waste            206
  • 4.2.2    Comparison of mechanical and advanced chemical recycling    207
• 4.3        Capacities       207
• 4.4        Global polymer demand 2022-2040, segmented by recycling technology            209
• 4.5        Global market by recycling process 2020-2024, metric tons         210
• 4.6        Chemically recycled plastic products           211
• 4.7        Market map    212
• 4.8        Value chain     214
• 4.9        Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) of advanced plastics recycling processes             215
• 4.10     Pyrolysis            216
  • 4.10.1 Non-catalytic 216
  • 4.10.2 Catalytic            218
    • 4.10.2.1            Polystyrene pyrolysis 219
    • 4.10.2.2            Pyrolysis for production of bio fuel  220
    • 4.10.2.3            Used tires pyrolysis   223
      • 4.10.2.3.1        Conversion to biofuel               224
    • 4.10.2.4            Co-pyrolysis of biomass and plastic wastes             225
  • 4.10.3 SWOT analysis              225
  • 4.10.4 Companies and capacities  226
• 4.11     Gasification    227
  • 4.11.1 Technology overview 227
    • 4.11.1.1            Syngas conversion to methanol        228
    • 4.11.1.2            Biomass gasification and syngas fermentation       232
    • 4.11.1.3            Biomass gasification and syngas thermochemical conversion    232
  • 4.11.2 SWOT analysis              233
  • 4.11.3 Companies and capacities (current and planned)                233
• 4.12     Dissolution     234
  • 4.12.1 Technology overview 234
  • 4.12.2 SWOT analysis              235
  • 4.12.3 Companies and capacities (current and planned)                236
• 4.13     Depolymerisation       237
  • 4.13.1 Hydrolysis        238
    • 4.13.1.1            Technology overview 239
    • 4.13.1.2            SWOT analysis              240
  • 4.13.2 Enzymolysis   240
    • 4.13.2.1            Technology overview 240
    • 4.13.2.2            SWOT analysis              241
  • 4.13.3 Methanolysis 242
    • 4.13.3.1            Technology overview 242
    • 4.13.3.2            SWOT analysis              243
  • 4.13.4 Glycolysis         244
    • 4.13.4.1            Technology overview 244
    • 4.13.4.2            SWOT analysis              245
  • 4.13.5 Aminolysis      246
    • 4.13.5.1            Technology overview 246
    • 4.13.5.2            SWOT analysis              247
  • 4.13.6 Companies and capacities (current and planned)                247
• 4.14     Other advanced chemical recycling technologies 248
  • 4.14.1 Hydrothermal cracking           248
  • 4.14.2 Pyrolysis with in-line reforming          249
  • 4.14.3 Microwave-assisted pyrolysis             249
  • 4.14.4 Plasma pyrolysis         250
  • 4.14.5 Plasma gasification   251
  • 4.14.6 Supercritical fluids     251
• 4.15     Recycling challenges for coated materials 253
  • 4.15.1 Material recovery facility (MRF) challenges                253
  • 4.15.2 AI and optical sorting technologies 254
  • 4.15.3 Recycling by design principles           255
    • 4.15.3.1            Mono-material coating approaches               256
• 4.16     Adhesive Impact on Recyclability     258
  • 4.16.1 Debonding technologies        258
  • 4.16.2 Water-washable adhesive systems 259
  • 4.16.3 Adhesive contamination in recycling streams         259
  • 4.16.4 Design for recycling guidelines          260

5             MARKETS AND APPLICATIONS           261

• 5.1        PAPER AND BOARD PACKAGING      261
  • 5.1.1    Market overview           262
  • 5.1.2    Recycled Paper and Cardboard         262
    • 5.1.2.1 Post-consumer recycled (PCR) content paperboard           262
    • 5.1.2.2 Kraft paper made from recycled fibers          264
    • 5.1.2.3 Corrugated cardboard with high recycled content                264
  • 5.1.3    FSC/PEFC Certified Virgin Fibers      265
    • 5.1.3.1 Sustainably managed forest sources             265
    • 5.1.3.2 Chain-of-custody certified materials             266
  • 5.1.4    Alternative Fiber Sources       267
    • 5.1.4.1 Bamboo-based paper and board     267
    • 5.1.4.2 Agricultural waste fibers (wheat straw, sugarcane bagasse)         268
    • 5.1.4.3 Hemp and flax fiber papers  269
  • 5.1.5    Plastic-Free Barrier Papers   270
    • 5.1.5.1 Clay-coated papers   270
    • 5.1.5.2 Silicone-coated papers           271
    • 5.1.5.3 Mineral oil barrier papers       272
  • 5.1.6    Water-Based Coatings and Adhesives           273
    • 5.1.6.1 Replacing plastic laminations with aqueous coatings        273
    • 5.1.6.2 Plant-based adhesives for box construction             273
  • 5.1.7    Global market size and forecast to 2036     275
    • 5.1.7.1 Tonnes                275
    • 5.1.7.2 Revenues          277
• 5.2        FOOD PACKAGING     279
  • 5.2.1    Films and trays              279
  • 5.2.2    Pouches and bags      280
  • 5.2.3    Textiles and nets          281
  • 5.2.4    Compostable Food Containers         281
    • 5.2.4.1 PLA (polylactic acid) trays and containers 281
    • 5.2.4.2 Bagasse food service items  282
    • 5.2.4.3 Molded fiber clamshells and trays   283
  • 5.2.5    Biodegradable Films and Wraps       284
    • 5.2.5.1 Cellulose-based films             284
    • 5.2.5.2 PLA films for food wrapping 285
    • 5.2.5.3 Starch-based wraps  286
  • 5.2.6    Bio-Based Barrier Materials 287
    • 5.2.6.1 Paper with biopolymer coatings        288
    • 5.2.6.2 Plant-based waxes for moisture resistance               289
    • 5.2.6.3 Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) coatings    290
  • 5.2.7    Reusable Food Packaging Systems 291
  • 5.2.8    Bioadhesives 292
    • 5.2.8.1 Starch 292
    • 5.2.8.2 Cellulose          293
    • 5.2.8.3 Protein-Based               293
  • 5.2.9    Barrier coatings and films     293
    • 5.2.9.1 Polysaccharides          294
      • 5.2.9.1.1           Chitin  294
      • 5.2.9.1.2           Chitosan           294
      • 5.2.9.1.3           Starch 295
    • 5.2.9.2 Poly(lactic acid) (PLA)              295
    • 5.2.9.3 Poly(butylene Succinate)       295
    • 5.2.9.4 Functional Lipid and Proteins Based Coatings        295
  • 5.2.10 Active and Smart Food Packaging   295
    • 5.2.10.1            Active Materials and Packaging Systems    295
    • 5.2.10.2            Intelligent and Smart Food Packaging           296
    • 5.2.10.3            Oxygen scavengers from natural materials 298
    • 5.2.10.4            Antimicrobial packaging from plant extracts            298
    • 5.2.10.5            Bio-based sensors for food freshness           299
  • 5.2.11 Antimicrobial films and agents          301
    • 5.2.11.1            Natural               301
    • 5.2.11.2            Inorganic nanoparticles          302
    • 5.2.11.3            Biopolymers   302
  • 5.2.12 Bio-based Inks and Dyes        302
  • 5.2.13 Edible films and coatings       303
    • 5.2.13.1            Overview           303
    • 5.2.13.2            Commercial examples            304
  • 5.2.14 Types of sustainable coatings and films in packaging        306
    • 5.2.14.1            Polyurethane coatings             306
      • 5.2.14.1.1        Properties         306
      • 5.2.14.1.2        Bio-based polyurethane coatings     307
      • 5.2.14.1.3        Products           308
    • 5.2.14.2            Acrylate resins              308
      • 5.2.14.2.1        Properties         308
      • 5.2.14.2.2        Bio-based acrylates  309
      • 5.2.14.2.3        Products           309
    • 5.2.14.3            Polylactic acid (Bio-PLA)        309
      • 5.2.14.3.1        Properties         311
      • 5.2.14.3.2        Bio-PLA coatings and films  311
    • 5.2.14.4            Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) coatings         312
    • 5.2.14.5            Cellulose coatings and films               313
      • 5.2.14.5.1        Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC)        313
      • 5.2.14.5.2        Cellulose nanofibers 313
        • 5.2.14.5.2.1   Properties         314
        • 5.2.14.5.2.2   Product developers    315
    • 5.2.14.6            Lignin coatings              317
    • 5.2.14.7            Protein-based biomaterials for coatings      317
      • 5.2.14.7.1        Plant derived proteins              317
      • 5.2.14.7.2        Animal origin proteins              318
  • 5.2.15 Global market size and forecast to 2036     319
    • 5.2.15.1            Tonnes                319
    • 5.2.15.2            Revenues          320
• 5.3        FLEXIBLE PACKAGING              322
  • 5.3.1    Market overview           323
  • 5.3.2    Compostable Flexible Films 323
    • 5.3.2.1 PLA film laminates     323
    • 5.3.2.2 PHAs (polyhydroxyalkanoates) films              324
    • 5.3.2.3 PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate) films   325
    • 5.3.2.4 TPS (thermoplastic starch) films      326
  • 5.3.3    Recyclable Mono-Materials 328
    • 5.3.3.1 All-PE (polyethylene) structures        328
    • 5.3.3.2 All-PP (polypropylene) structures     330
    • 5.3.3.3 Designed for mechanical recycling 331
  • 5.3.4    Paper-Based Flexible Packaging       332
    • 5.3.4.1 High-strength paper with functional coatings          332
    • 5.3.4.2 Paper-plastic hybrid structures with separable layers        333
    • 5.3.4.3 Glassine and greaseproof papers    334
  • 5.3.5    Bio-Based Films          335
    • 5.3.5.1 Bio-PE films (from sugarcane)            335
    • 5.3.5.2 Bio-PET films 336
    • 5.3.5.3 Cellulose-based transparent films  337
  • 5.3.6    Reduced Material Structures               338
    • 5.3.6.1 Ultra-thin films with enhanced performance            339
    • 5.3.6.2 Downgauged materials with reinforcing technologies        340
    • 5.3.6.3 Resource-efficient multi-layer structures   341
  • 5.3.7    Global market size and forecast to 2036     342
    • 5.3.7.1 Tonnes                342
    • 5.3.7.2 Revenues          343
• 5.4        RIGID PACKAGING      345
  • 5.4.1    Market overview           345
  • 5.4.2    Recycled Plastic Containers                345
    • 5.4.2.1 rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) bottles and containers          345
    • 5.4.2.2 rHDPE (recycled high-density polyethylene) bottles            346
    • 5.4.2.3 PCR polypropylene tubs and containers     347
  • 5.4.3    Bio-Based Rigid Plastics        348
    • 5.4.3.1 Bio-PET bottles (partially plant-based)         348
    • 5.4.3.2 Bio-PE containers       349
    • 5.4.3.3 PLA bottles and jars  350
  • 5.4.4    Refillable/Reusable Systems              351
    • 5.4.4.1 Durable containers designed for multiple uses      351
    • 5.4.4.2 Standardized shapes for refill systems         351
    • 5.4.4.3 Concentrated product formats reducing packaging            353
  • 5.4.5    Alternative Materials 354
    • 5.4.5.1 Mushroom packaging for protective applications 354
    • 5.4.5.2 Molded pulp containers and inserts               355
    • 5.4.5.3 Wood and cork containers for premium products 356
  • 5.4.6    Glass and Metal Alternatives               357
    • 5.4.6.1 Lightweight glass technologies          357
    • 5.4.6.2 Thin-walled aluminum containers   359
    • 5.4.6.3 Tin-free steel packaging         360
  • 5.4.7    Global market and forecasts to 2036          361
    • 5.4.7.1 Tonnes                361
    • 5.4.7.2 Revenues          362
• 5.5        CARBON CAPTURE DERIVED MATERIALS FOR PACKAGING           364
  • 5.5.1    Benefits of carbon utilization for plastics feedstocks         365
  • 5.5.2    CO₂-derived polymers and plastics 367
  • 5.5.3    CO2 utilization products        368
• 5.6        SUSTAINABLE BARRIER COATINGS 370
  • 5.6.1    Market overview and drivers 370
  • 5.6.2    Coating consumption by substrate type      371
    • 5.6.2.1 Paper substrates         371
    • 5.6.2.2 Plastic substrates       372
  • 5.6.3    Market by coating process    372
    • 5.6.3.1 Extrusion coatings      372
    • 5.6.3.2 Wet-coating applications      373
    • 5.6.3.3 Wax coating processes           374
  • 5.6.4    Market by material type           375
    • 5.6.4.1 Thermoplastic polymer coatings      375
    • 5.6.4.2 High barrier polymer coatings             376
    • 5.6.4.3 Aluminum barrier coatings    377
    • 5.6.4.4 Wax coatings  378
    • 5.6.4.5 Silicone and natural material coatings          379
    • 5.6.4.6 Biobased barrier polymers    380
      • 5.6.4.6.1           PHA coating applications      380
    • 5.6.4.7 Starch-based barrier coatings            380
      • 5.6.4.7.1           Protein-based barrier materials         381
• 5.7        PACKAGING ADHESIVES        382
  • 5.7.1    Market overview and structure           382
  • 5.7.2    Market drivers and external factors 383
  • 5.7.3    Packaging waste and regulations     384
  • 5.7.4    Market by adhesive    386
    • 5.7.4.1 Waterborne adhesives market            386
      • 5.7.4.1.1           Acrylic-copolymer      386
      • 5.7.4.1.2           VAE adhesives               387
      • 5.7.4.1.3           PVAc adhesives            387
      • 5.7.4.1.4           Natural-based adhesives       388
    • 5.7.4.2 Solvent-borne/reactive systems market      388
      • 5.7.4.2.1           Acrylic systems            389
      • 5.7.4.2.2           Synthetic elastomer systems             390
      • 5.7.4.2.3           Polyurethane systems             391
    • 5.7.4.3 Hot melt adhesives market   391
      • 5.7.4.3.1           EVA hot melts 391
      • 5.7.4.3.2           Polyolefin hot melts   392
      • 5.7.4.3.3           Synthetic elastomer hot melts           392
      • 5.7.4.3.4           Bio-based hot melt developments   393
    • 5.7.4.4 Radiation-curable adhesives              394
  • 5.7.5    Market by packaging type      394
    • 5.7.5.1 Rigid packaging/labels            394
      • 5.7.5.1.1           Corrugated board packaging              394
      • 5.7.5.1.2           Paperboard applications       395
      • 5.7.5.1.3           Carton assembly         396
      • 5.7.5.1.4           Core manufacturing 396
      • 5.7.5.1.5           Composite cans/containers 397
      • 5.7.5.1.6           Rigid plastic containers          398
      • 5.7.5.1.7           Labels and lidding      398
    • 5.7.5.2 Flexible packaging     399
      • 5.7.5.2.1           Multilayer structure lamination         399
      • 5.7.5.2.2           Seal layer applications            400
      • 5.7.5.2.3           Adhesive lamination processes         401
      • 5.7.5.2.4           Heat sealing applications      401

6             COMPANY PROFILES                403 (318 company profiles)

7             RESEARCH METHODOLOGY              658

8             REFERENCES 659

List of Tables

• Table 1. Global sustainable packaging market by packaging materials, 2023-2036 (1,000 tonnes).   34
• Table 2. Global sustainable packaging market by packaging materials, 2023-2036 (Millions USD).    35
• Table 3. Global sustainable packaging market by packaging product type, 2023-2036 (1,000 tonnes).                37
• Table 4. Global sustainable packaging market by packaging product type, 2023-2036 (Millions USD).                38
• Table 5. Global sustainable packaging market by end-use market, 2023-2036(1,000 tonnes).             39
• Table 6. Global sustainable packaging market by end-use market, 2023-2036 (Millions USD).             40
• Table 7. Global sustainable packaging market by region, 2023-2036 (1,000 tonnes).   41
• Table 8. Global sustainable packaging market by region, 2023-2036 (Millions USD).   42
• Table 9. Main Types of Sustainable Packaging Materials   43
• Table 10. Average prices by packaging type, 2024 (US$ per kg).   46
• Table 11. Average annual prices by bioplastic type, 2020-2023 (US$ per kg).     46
• Table 12. Recent sustainable packaging products.              47
• Table 13. Market trends in Sustainable Packaging 50
• Table 14. Market drivers for recent growth in the Sustainable Packaging market.            51
• Table 15. Challenges for Biodegradable and Compostable Packaging.  52
• Table 16. Types of bio-based plastics and fossil-fuel-based plastics       98
• Table 17. Comparison of synthetic fossil-based and bio-based polymers.           104
• Table 18. Processes for bioplastics in packaging. 105
• Table 19. LDPE film versus PLA, 2019–24 (USD/tonne).    106
• Table 20. PLA properties for packaging applications.         107
• Table 21. Applications, advantages and disadvantages of PHAs in packaging. 125
• Table 22. Major polymers found in the extracellular covering of different algae.               130
• Table 23. Market overview for cellulose microfibers (microfibrillated cellulose) in paperboard and packaging-market age, key benefits, applications and producers.            132
• Table 24. Applications of nanocrystalline cellulose (CNC).            133
• Table 25. Market overview for cellulose nanofibers in packaging.              135
• Table 26. Applications of Bacterial Nanocellulose in Packaging. 143
• Table 27. Types of protein based-bioplastics, applications and companies.      145
• Table 28. Overview of alginate-description, properties, application and market size.   147
• Table 29. Companies developing algal-based bioplastics.             149
• Table 30. Overview of mycelium fibers-description, properties, drawbacks and applications.               149
• Table 31. Overview of chitosan-description, properties, drawbacks and applications.                151
• Table 32. Commercial Examples of Chitosan-based Films and Coatings and Companies.      152
• Table 33. Bio-based naphtha markets and applications. 154
• Table 34. Bio-naphtha market value chain.               155
• Table 35. Commercial Examples of Bio-Naphtha Packaging and Companies.  155
• Table 36. Paper substrate characteristics and coating requirements.      157
• Table 37. Plastic substrate applications and sustainability challenges. 157
• Table 38. Substrate selection criteria and performance trade-offs.          158
• Table 39. Wet-Barrier Coatings Application methods and process optimization.             163
• Table 40. Wet-Barrier Coatings Performance benchmarking against alternatives.          164
• Table 41.Wet-Barrier Coatings Environmental Impact Assessment          164
• Table 42. Wax Coating Sustainability Credentials and Limitations.           166
• Table 43. Wax Coating Sustainability credentials and limitations.             167
• Table 44. Types of biobased coatings materials.    173
• Table 45. Water-based coating technologies.           177
• Table 46. Global bioplastics capacities by Material Type ('000 tonnes). 178
• Table 47. Bio-based polymer solutions.       180
• Table 48. Dispersion coating systems.         189
• Table 49. Nano-enhanced barrier materials.            191
• Table 50. Overview of the recycling technologies. 204
• Table 51. Polymer types, use, and recovery.              205
• Table 52. Composition of plastic waste streams.  206
• Table 53. Comparison of mechanical and advanced chemical recycling.             207
• Table 54. Advanced plastics recycling capacities, by technology.              207
• Table 55. Example chemically recycled plastic products.                212
• Table 56. Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) of Advanced Chemical Recycling Processes. 215
• Table 57. Summary of non-catalytic pyrolysis technologies.         217
• Table 58. Summary of catalytic pyrolysis technologies.    218
• Table 59. Summary of pyrolysis technique under different operating conditions.            221
• Table 60. Biomass materials and their bio-oil yield.             222
• Table 61. Biofuel production cost from the biomass pyrolysis process. 222
• Table 62. Pyrolysis companies and plant capacities, current and planned.         226
• Table 63. Summary of gasification technologies.  227
• Table 64. Advanced recycling (Gasification) companies. 233
• Table 65. Summary of dissolution technologies.   234
• Table 66. Advanced recycling (Dissolution) companies    236
• Table 67. Depolymerisation processes for PET, PU, PC and PA, products and yields.    238
• Table 68. Summary of hydrolysis technologies-feedstocks, process, outputs, commercial maturity and technology developers.           239
• Table 69. Summary of Enzymolysis technologies-feedstocks, process, outputs, commercial maturity and technology developers. 240
• Table 70. Summary of methanolysis technologies-feedstocks, process, outputs, commercial maturity and technology developers. 242
• Table 71. Summary of glycolysis technologies-feedstocks, process, outputs, commercial maturity and technology developers.           244
• Table 72. Summary of aminolysis technologies.    246
• Table 73. Advanced recycling (Depolymerisation) companies and capacities (current and planned).                247
• Table 74. Overview of hydrothermal cracking for advanced chemical recycling.              248
• Table 75. Overview of Pyrolysis with in-line reforming for advanced chemical recycling.            249
• Table 76. Overview of microwave-assisted pyrolysis for advanced chemical recycling.              249
• Table 77. Overview of plasma pyrolysis for advanced chemical recycling.           250
• Table 78. Overview of plasma gasification for advanced chemical recycling.     251
• Table 79. Mono-material coating approaches.        256
• Table 80. The global market for sustainable paper & board packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (‘000 tonnes).             275
• Table 81. The global market for sustainable paper & board packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (Millions USD).              277
• Table 82. Pros and cons of different type of food packaging materials.   279
• Table 83. Active Biodegradable Films films and their food applications.               296
• Table 84. Intelligent Biodegradable Films.  297
• Table 85. Edible films and coatings market summary.       303
• Table 86. Types of polyols.    306
• Table 87. Polyol producers.  307
• Table 88. Bio-based polyurethane coating products.          308
• Table 89. Bio-based acrylate resin products.           309
• Table 90. Polylactic acid (PLA) market analysis.    310
• Table 91. Commercially available PHAs.     312
• Table 92. Market overview for cellulose nanofibers in paints and coatings.         314
• Table 93. Companies developing cellulose nanofibers products in paints and coatings.           315
• Table 94. Types of protein based-biomaterials, applications and companies.   318
• Table 95. The global market for sustainable food packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (‘000 tonnes).                319
• Table 96. The global market for sustainable food packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (Millions USD).                320
• Table 97. Comparison of bioplastics’ (PLA and PHAs) properties to other common polymers used in product packaging.   327
• Table 98. Typical applications for bioplastics in flexible packaging.         327
• Table 99. The global market for sustainable flexible packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (‘000 tonnes).             342
• Table 100. The global market for sustainable flexible packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (Millions USD).  343
• Table 101. Typical applications for bioplastics in rigid packaging.             350
• Table 102. The global market for sustainable rigid packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (‘000 tonnes).                361
• Table 103. The global market for sustainable rigid packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (Millions USD).  362
• Table 104. CO2 utilization and removal pathways.                365
• Table 105. CO2 utilization products developed by chemical and plastic producers.     368
• Table 106. Lactips plastic pellets.    543
• Table 107. Oji Holdings CNF products.         579

List of Figures

• Figure 1. Global packaging market by material type.           32
• Figure 2. Unilever’s Magnum ice cream tub using 100% chemically recycled PP .           32
• Figure 3. Global sustainable packaging market by packaging materials, 2023-2036 (1,000 tonnes). 35
• Figure 4. Global sustainable packaging market by packaging materials, 2023-2036 (Millions USD).  36
• Figure 5. Global sustainable packaging market by packaging product type, 2023-2036 (1,000 tonnes).                37
• Figure 6. Global sustainable packaging market by packaging product type, 2023-2036 (Millions USD).                38
• Figure 7. Global sustainable packaging market by end-use market, 2023-2036 (1,000 tonnes).           39
• Figure 8. Global sustainable packaging market by end-use market, 2023-2036 (Millions USD).            40
• Figure 9. Global sustainable packaging market by region, 2023-2036 (1,000 tonnes). 41
• Figure 10. Global sustainable packaging market by region, 2023-2036 (Millions USD).               42
• Figure 11. Packaging lifecycle .          92
• Figure 12. Routes for synthesizing polymers from fossil-based and bio-based resources.        103
• Figure 13. Organization and morphology of cellulose synthesizing terminal complexes (TCs) in different organisms.      129
• Figure 14. Biosynthesis of (a) wood cellulose (b) tunicate cellulose and (c) BC.               130
• Figure 15. Cellulose microfibrils and nanofibrils.  131
• Figure 16. TEM image of cellulose nanocrystals.   133
• Figure 17. CNC slurry.              133
• Figure 18. CNF gel.     134
• Figure 19. Bacterial nanocellulose shapes 142
• Figure 20. BLOOM masterbatch from Algix.               148
• Figure 21. Typical structure of mycelium-based foam.      150
• Figure 22. Life cycle of biopolymer packaging materials.. 171
• Figure 23. Current management systems for waste plastics.        203
• Figure 24. Global polymer demand 2022-2040, segmented by technology, million metric tons.           210
• Figure 25. Global demand by recycling process, 2020-2040, million metric tons.           211
• Figure 26. Market map for advanced recycling.       213
• Figure 27. Value chain for advanced plastics recycling market.   214
• Figure 28. Schematic layout of a pyrolysis plant.   216
• Figure 29. Waste plastic production pathways to (A) diesel and (B) gasoline      220
• Figure 30. Schematic for Pyrolysis of Scrap Tires. 224
• Figure 31. Used tires conversion process.  225
• Figure 32. SWOT analysis-pyrolysis for advanced recycling.          225
• Figure 33. Total syngas market by product in MM Nm³/h of Syngas          229
• Figure 34. Overview of biogas utilization.    230
• Figure 35. Biogas and biomethane pathways.          231
• Figure 36. SWOT analysis-gasification for advanced recycling.    233
• Figure 37. SWOT analysis-dissoluton for advanced recycling.      236
• Figure 38. Products obtained through the different solvolysis pathways of PET, PU, and PA.    237
• Figure 39. SWOT analysis-Hydrolysis for advanced chemical recycling. 240
• Figure 40. SWOT analysis-Enzymolysis for advanced chemical recycling.            241
• Figure 41. SWOT analysis-Methanolysis for advanced chemical recycling.          243
• Figure 42. SWOT analysis-Glycolysis for advanced chemical recycling. 245
• Figure 43. Mondelez confectionery packaging using chemically recycled PCR .               246
• Figure 44. SWOT analysis-Aminolysis for advanced chemical recycling.               247
• Figure 45. Kit Kat packaged in paper flow wrap .     267
• Figure 46. Quality Street paper-based chocolate packaging .       270
• Figure 47. Smarties paper-based chocolate packaging .  270
• Figure 48. The global market for sustainable paper & board packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (‘000 tonnes).             277
• Figure 49. The global market for sustainable paper & board packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (Millions USD).              279
• Figure 50. Chemically recycled PCR (up to 30%) for Hetbahn plastic tubs .         284
• Figure 51. Types of bio-based materials used for antimicrobial food packaging application.  301
• Figure 52. Water soluble packaging by Notpla.        305
• Figure 53. Examples of edible films in food packaging.     306
• Figure 54. Hefcel-coated wood (left) and untreated wood (right) after 30 seconds flame test.               317
• Figure 55. The global market for sustainable food packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (‘000 tonnes).                320
• Figure 56. The global market for sustainable food packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (Millions USD).                322
• Figure 57. Twinings mono-material standup pouches        328
• Figure 58. Rezorce mono-material PP carton lifecycle.      329
• Figure 59. Haleon mono-material blister packaging development.           329
• Figure 60. DRS system for Hetbahn bowls .               332
• Figure 61. The global market for sustainable flexible packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (‘000 tonnes).             343
• Figure 62. The global market for sustainable flexible packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (Millions USD).  345
• Figure 63. The global market for sustainable rigid packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (‘000 tonnes).                362
• Figure 64. The global market for sustainable rigid packaging by material type, 2019–2036 (Millions USD).                363
• Figure 65. Applications for CO2.       365
• Figure 66. Life cycle of CO2-derived products and services.          367
• Figure 67.  Conversion pathways for CO2-derived polymeric materials  368
• Figure 68. Pluumo.     408
• Figure 69. Anpoly cellulose nanofiber hydrogel.     417
• Figure 70. MEDICELLU™.         418
• Figure 71. Asahi Kasei CNF fabric sheet.     427
• Figure 72. Properties of Asahi Kasei cellulose nanofiber nonwoven fabric.          428
• Figure 73. CNF nonwoven fabric.      429
• Figure 74. Passionfruit wrapped in Xgo Circular packaging.           434
• Figure 75. Be Green Packaging molded fiber products.     435
• Figure 76. Beyond Meat Molded Fiber Sausage Tray.            436
• Figure 77. BIOLO e-commerce mailer bag made from PHA.           441
• Figure 78. Reusable and recyclable foodservice cups, lids, and straws from Joinease Hong Kong Ltd., made with plant-based NuPlastiQ BioPolymer from BioLogiQ, Inc.          442
• Figure 79. Fiber-based screw cap.   450
• Figure 80. Molded fiber trays for contact lenses.   454
• Figure 81. SEELCAP ONEGO.              457
• Figure 82. CJ CheilJedang's biodegradable PHA-based wrapper for shipping products.              466
• Figure 83. CuanSave film.     471
• Figure 84. Cullen Eco-Friendly Packaging beerGUARD molded fiber trays.          472
• Figure 85. ELLEX products.   474
• Figure 86. CNF-reinforced PP compounds.               475
• Figure 87. Kirekira! toilet wipes.         475
• Figure 88. Edible packaging from Dissolves.             479
• Figure 89. Rheocrysta spray.                480
• Figure 90. DKS CNF products.            480
• Figure 91. Molded fiber plastic rings.             484
• Figure 92. Mushroom leather.              491
• Figure 93. Evoware edible seaweed-based packaging       497
• Figure 94. Photograph (a) and micrograph (b) of mineral/ MFC composite showing the high viscosity and fibrillar structure.        498
• Figure 95. Forest and Whale container.        507
• Figure 96. PHA production process.               509
• Figure 97. Soy Silvestre’s wheatgrass shots.             510
• Figure 98. Genera molded fiber meat trays.               513
• Figure 99. AVAPTM process. 516
• Figure 100. GreenPower+™ process.               517
• Figure 101. Cutlery samples (spoon, knife, fork) made of nano cellulose and biodegradable plastic composite materials.               521
• Figure 102. CNF gel.  523
• Figure 103. Block nanocellulose material. 523
• Figure 104. CNF products developed by Hokuetsu.             524
• Figure 105. Unilever Carte D’Or ice cream packaging.       526
• Figure 106. Kami Shoji CNF products.           533
• Figure 107. Matrix Pack molded-fiber beverage cup lid.    552
• Figure 108. Molded fiber Labeling applied to products.     553
• Figure 109. IPA synthesis method.   560
• Figure 110. Compostable water pod.             574
• Figure 111. Coca-cola paper bottle prototype.        585
• Figure 112. Papierfabrik Meldorf’s grass-based packaging materials .    586
• Figure 113. PulPac dry molded fiber packaging for cosmetics.     596
• Figure 114. Example of Qwarzo grease barrier coating.     598
• Figure 115. XCNF.       601
• Figure 116: Innventia AB movable nanocellulose demo plant.     602
• Figure 117. Molded fiber tray.              604
• Figure 118. Shellworks packaging containers.         612
• Figure 119. Thales packaging incorporating Fibrease.        621
• Figure 120. Molded pulp bottles.      621
• Figure 121. Sulapac cosmetics containers.              623
• Figure 122.  Sulzer equipment for PLA polymerization processing.            624
• Figure 123. Molded fiber laundry detergent bottle.               628
• Figure 124. Tanbark’s clamshell product.   629
• Figure 125. Silver / CNF composite dispersions.   636
• Figure 126. CNF/nanosilver powder.               636
• Figure 127. Corbion FDCA production process.     638
• Figure 128. UFP Technologies, Inc. product examples.      641
• Figure 129. UPM biorefinery process.            643
• Figure 130. Varden coffee pod.          646
• Figure 131. Vegea production process.        647
• Figure 132. Worn Again products.    650
• Figure 133. npulp packaging.              651
• Figure 134. Western Pulp Products corner protectors.       652
• Figure 135. S-CNF in powder form. 655

The Global Sustainable Packaging Materials Market 2026-2036

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