Online session to address policy outlook, market readiness, and sustainability aspects of bio-based plastics

nova-Institute has introduced a new initiative under its ‘Renewable Feedstock’ department with the announcement of an expert-led online workshop addressing developments related to bio-based plastic quotas.

The European Commission is currently examining the possibility of implementing a quota system for bio-based plastics in packaging as part of its broader bioeconomy strategy. While no final decision has been made, policy discussions indicate that binding targets could be introduced as early as 2028. Packaging is expected to be the first sector impacted, with potential expansion into automotive, textiles, construction, and toys.

The workshop will provide an overview of the current regulatory framework and explore possible quota levels, implementation timelines, and sectoral scope. It will also address existing requirements related to industrial compostability in certain applications.

A key area of discussion will be the carbon footprint of bio-based plastics. The session will examine comparisons with fossil-based plastics and outline developments in life cycle assessment (LCA) methodologies. This includes updates to life cycle inventory (LCI) databases, which reflect higher emissions linked to fossil plastics, along with changes in the treatment of biogenic carbon.

The availability of biomass resources will also be covered, with insights into global and European scenarios assessing whether supply can support a transition to bio-based plastics at scale.

In addition, the workshop will present a market overview of bio-based polymers and plastics. Participants will receive information on 17 commercially available bio-based plastics, including production volumes, availability, key producers, compounders, suppliers, and application suitability across sectors such as packaging.

The session will be led by Christopher vom Berg, Head of nova-Institute’s ‘Renewable Feedstock’ department, and Michael Carus, founder of the institute and senior expert.

Two sessions are scheduled:
30 April 2026, 2:00–4:00 pm (CET)
28 May 2026, 2:00–4:00 pm (CET)

Participation fee: €199

In addition to the public sessions, in-house workshops for companies are also available. For enquiries, participants can contact: christopher.vomberg@nova-institut.de