US is the key consumer of biopolymers in North America. Packaging, bottling, fibers, and automotive are the application segments driving the demand for PLA, bio-PE, and bio-PET which in turn is pushing the demand for biopolymers within the region. 

 

The growing concern for human health and safety in the region has also led to increased consumption of biopolymers. The biopolymers market is also up surging due to high penetration of material in industries like packaging and automotive which have further helped the biopolymers market to emerge in the region. Various innovations, developments, and expansions in different industries have in turn made the region a potential growth market for biopolymers and its products.

 

There are few global players in biopolymers market of which top players dominate the market. North America is the biggest biopolymers market; whereas, Asia-Pacific is one of the fastest growing biopolymer markets. NatureWorks (US), Braskem (Brazil), Metabolix (US), Meredian (US), Novamont (Italy) are the most active players between 2009 and 2013. 

 

As MRC wrote before, last year, BASF also unveiled its plans to expand its business in the biopolymers market, since it  presents another growth market.  "We are currently stepping up research into a biodegradable, primarily biobased foam with properties similar to those of polystyrene foam for use as packaging for food and electric and electronic goods,"said Brudermuller.