In recent years, as environmental concerns grow, biodegradable packaging has gained significant attention in Japan. The Japanese market for biodegradable packaging is driven by government initiatives and consumer preferences. The government has set ambitious targets to reduce plastic waste and promote the use of biodegradable materials. Japanese consumers are increasingly conscious of environmental issues and actively seek eco-friendly packaging options.
This trend has encouraged manufacturers to develop innovative biodegradable packaging solutions, particularly in the food and cosmetics sectors. While awareness of sustainability is increasing, many Japanese consumers are still unfamiliar with the specifics of biodegradable packaging and how to identify it. This article aims to help Japanese consumers understand what biodegradable packaging is, how to spot it, and why it is crucial for the environment.
What is Biodegradable Packaging?
Biodegradable packaging refers to materials that can be broken down by microorganisms into natural elements like water, carbon dioxide, and compost. Unlike traditional plastic packaging, which can take hundreds of years to decompose, biodegradable materials break down naturally, reducing waste and pollution.
Common materials used in biodegradable packaging include plant-based materials such as cornstarch, sugarcane, or cellulose, as well as biopolymers like polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT). These materials break down through the action of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, under the right conditions for example, in industrial composting facilities. By decomposing naturally, biodegradable packaging reduces plastic waste, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and minimizes harm to marine life.
For Japanese consumers looking to make eco-friendly choices, here are some tips to identify biodegradable packaging:
- Look for Certification Labels: In Japan, products with biodegradable packaging often carry certification marks such as the “GreenPla” mark, which indicates compliance with Japan’s Bioplastics Certification System. Other international labels like “OK Compost” or “BPI Certified” may also appear on imported products.
- Check Material Descriptions: Examine the packaging for terms like biodegradable, plant-based, or compostable. Materials such as PLA (polylactic acid) or PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate) are commonly used in biodegradable packaging and are often listed on the product.
- Research the Brand: Many Japanese companies are increasingly adopting sustainable practices. Look for brands that emphasize their commitment to the environment on their packaging or websites. For example, APP Group in 2023, exhibited Foopak Bio Natura at Foodex Japan 2023, showcasing APP Group’s position as a leader in cutting-edge food packaging solutions. Foopak Bio Natura, a paperboard brand under APP Group, specialises in eco-friendly food packaging.
APP Group designed their products to replace plastic linings in the food service industry. Foopak Bio Natura is an environmentally friendly food and beverage packaging solution by APP Group, using advanced dispersion coating technology to replace plastic coatings in the foodservice industry.
A significant amount of plastic waste that Japan generates contributes to global pollution. That is why biodegradable packaging plays a vital role in protecting the environment for several reasons. Many biodegradable materials are derived from renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane, which have a lower carbon footprint compared to petroleum-based plastics. Beside that, compostable packaging can be turned into nutrient-rich compost, supporting soil health and promoting a circular economy where waste is repurposed rather than discarded.
