Challenges in the Growth of the Compostable Bioplastic Industry in the Philippines

Abstract

Alternative strategies and nature-based technologies are being sought to solve plastic pollution as a result of plastic waste mismanagement. Compostable bioplastic is deemed to be a potential solution. However, the bioplastics industry has a very slow growth in the Philippines. This study investigates the reasons for such sluggish growth by exploring current policy support for manufacturers and consumers to produce and use bioplastics, respectively. Key informant interviews, online data collection, and focus group interviews of a total of fifteen (15) respondents were used to gather data from institutional representatives of upstream and downstream plastic manufacturers, the food packaging industry, and local government units as regulators of plastic use. Sixty-four (64) wet market sellers of meat and poultry were surveyed regarding their knowledge about and their willingness to buy compostable bioplastics. Thematic analysis and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results showed that there is no clear bioplastics policy in the Philippines and this hinders manufacturers from investing in its production. The incentives that can potentially influence a shift in decisions are competitive pricing, access to technology, and government subsidies. The conditions leading to the adoption of compostable bioplastics in the food packaging industry are access to technology and cheap raw materials. Wet market sellers will use bioplastic if it is cheap and durable. Information, education and communication strategies are also needed to educate the public about the technology. LGUs can work with local institutions to promote bioplastic use.

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