Biodegradable Plastic Packaging Production Unit Setup

In a world where environmental sustainability is paramount, the need for innovative solutions has never been greater. One such solution that has garnered significant attention is the production of biodegradable plastic packaging. With the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly alternatives, businesses are exploring ways to enter this emerging market. Are you an entrepreneur with a vision to make a positive impact and tap into this lucrative industry?

In the definition of biodegradable plastic, plastics other than compostable plastics that degrade completely by biological processes within ambient conditions (terrestrial or in water), in the specified periods, without leaving micro plastics, visible, distinguishable or toxic residues that negatively impact the environment, adhering to the Bureau of Indian Standards and certified by the Central Pollution Control Board.

Look no further. This comprehensive guide will take you through the step-by-step process of launching your biodegradable plastic packaging production unit. From understanding the market potential to sourcing sustainable materials, designing efficient production processes, and implementing effective marketing strategies, we have covered you.

Plastic is no unsung term, but something omnipresent in our daily lives. It would be wrong to assume that plastic is a new-age problem. Still, it constantly provokes our environmental existence and is a nagging presence. Besides, plastic has been a persistent problem for ages, as it is sung now and then how it might take years to decompose. Possible alternatives have been sought as a solution, such as biodegradable Plastic Packaging.

Plastic packaging refers to materials used in packing products in several methods for protection, preservation, storage, and transportation. In addition, Biodegradable plastic food packaging is made from such materials as sugarcane and potato starch, which decomposes quickly. It comes across as an eco-friendly alternative and contributes towards sustainability. As the icing on the cake, unlike traditional plastic packaging, it might jeopardize our nature & cause plastic pollution. On the flip side, the newfound sustainable alternative can surely repair the damage caused environmentally by reducing the amount of plastic waste, such as in landfills.

Furthermore, biodegradable plastic packaging is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic packaging. It reduces the amount of plastic waste in landfills, is safer for the environment, and is cost-effective in the long run. As consumers, we are responsible for choosing eco-friendly products, and biodegradable plastic packaging is a step in the right direction. Let us make a conscious effort to reduce our impact on the environment by choosing biodegradable plastic packaging.

Just like compostable plastics, Biodegradable packaging even comes with sustainable packaging, which can benefit consumers unknowingly. Let us shift our gaze to the most celebrated forms of packaging & know its benefits- 

• Made from natural materials

Firstly, biodegradable plastic packaging is safer for the environment. Traditional plastic packaging contains harmful chemicals that can leach into the soil and water, causing pollution. On the other hand, biodegradable plastic packaging is made from natural materials that are safe for the environment.

• Cost-effective

Secondly, biodegradable food packaging is cost-effective. It may be more expensive to buy biodegradable plastic packaging at first. Still, it will cost you less in the long run than using traditional plastic packaging. Biodegradable plastic packaging reduces the amount of plastic waste in landfills, reducing waste management costs.

• Healthier packaging

Thirdly, Plastic food packaging is recommended because it is a healthy and viable option. In addition, it is utilised in greater quantities under biodegradable eco-friendly food packaging.

We might have imbibed the definition of Biodegradable in our hearts and minds, but little do we know; of the types of packaging that exist. Let us look at the types-

• Paper & Cardboard Packaging

It is not unfamiliar to an eye upon the application of paper and cardboard packaging in their daily lives. The properties of such materials make them highly biodegradable and compostable. It is a hundred per cent recyclable as a cherry on the cake. It is commonly used for packaging food, beverages, and cosmetics.

• Polylactic Acid

Polylactic Acid is born from renewable resources and plant-based materials, such as sugarcane, bamboo or starch. It is a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging materials, such as plastic and Styrofoam. For instance, it is compostable and can be used in biodegradable food packaging. 

• Hemp

Hemp Plastic is a biodegradable polymer sourced from the cannabis plant and derived from cellulose. After which, the latter breaks down and is chemically reconstructed in a 100% (biodegradable) bioplastic.

Thus, these plastics are highly beneficial and can positively impact our environment. 

Market Demand For Biodegradable Plastic Packaging

With an increase in the demand for the biodegradable industry, the need for products is also on the rise. Our generations are closely headed to internalizing sustainable alternatives by noticing a shift in packaging patterns and reliving the joy of eco-friendly substitutes; according to several reports-India’s bioplastics market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 24.36% to reach US$1,420.870 million by 2027, up from US$308.942 million in 2020.

For instance, biodegradable packaging is slightly more expensive than the traditional packaging. But, other than that, it offers premium products assuring quality with quantity. This means businesses that offer biodegradable plastic packaging solutions have a competitive advantage in the market. They can attract environmentally conscious consumers and differentiate themselves from their competitors. Moreover, firms adopting biodegradable plastic packaging solutions can benefit from government regulations. To your surprise, many countries are even implementing regulations restricting traditional plastic packaging use. By adopting biodegradable plastic packaging solutions, businesses can comply with these regulations and avoid penalties.

To establish a biodegradable Plastic Packaging production unit, you require a list of documents as specified under the following categories, which are as follows- 

Basic documents

• Trade license from the municipal body authority in your area
• GST registration online
• Fire NOC ( No objection certificate)
• NOC from CPCB( Central Pollution Control Board)
• UDYOG Aadhar Registration
• Factory License 
• Fire NOC ( No objection certificate)
• NOC from CPCB( Central Pollution Control Board)
• Aadhar / PAN of Authorized person

EPR Registration for Manufacturers

• DIC Registration (if the unit is registered with DIC)
• Process flow diagrams 
• Consents issued by SPCB/PCC (if the unit has a production facility)
• Scanned copy of signatures of authorized persons
• Geo-tagged pictures of the raw material storage area, production area, product dispatch area, and plant machinery 
• Covering letter
• Additional Documents the unit wishes to provide.

CPCB Certification for Manufacturer

• Copy of Registration issued by concerned SPCB/PCC to the certified CPCB manufacturer.
• Copy of the certificate issued by CPCB to the concerned manufacturers.
• An authorization letter was issued to the seller from the concerned manufacturer.
• Test reports as per Indian Standards IS/ISO 17899: 2022. 
• IEC code (in case of import of biodegradable carry bags/commodities).

International organization of Standardization (ISO) Approval

Test reports which cover the first component of the IS 17899 T: 2022 and have to be acquired-

• IS/ISO 14851 or IS/ISO 14852: Ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials in an aqueous medium Or 
• IS/ISO 17556: Ultimate Aerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials in Soil, Min Or
• IS/ISO 15985 or IS/ISO 14853: Ultimate Anaerobic Biodegradation, Min.

Note:-  Certifications must be obtained from CIPET, a laboratory accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories, or a laboratory recognized under the Laboratory Recognition Scheme, 2020, of the Bureau of Indian Standards.

Are you looking to start a biodegradable plastic packaging production unit? 

If yes, you are on the right track towards a sustainable future. Biodegradable food packaging is an eco-friendly alternative for which the demand for is increasing rapidly. Nonetheless, let us look at the steps needed to establish a the unit-

EPR Registration

Initially, the Registration of Producers, Importers & Brand-Owners (operating in one or two states) and Plastic Waste processors shall be conducted by State Pollution Control Board or Pollution Control Committee through the centralized Extended Producer Responsibility portal developed by Central Pollution Control Board.

Choosing the Right Equipment & Machinery

Biodegradable plastic packaging requires you to equip yourself with the necessary equipment & machinery. The involved equipment includes the following-

• Extrusion machine 

"Polylactic Acid or Polylactic Acid Blends" are the main ingredients used to create PLA polymers. The majority of the time, they are found as granules. For instance, PLA acts as a polymer of lactic acids, which microorganisms support during the fermentation of starch. The resulting PLA from the starch cannot be utilized to make plastics, so it must be mixed with other substances, co-polymerized, or blended with other polymers to enhance its properties. The PLA also incorporates several chemicals, including UV stabilizers, and impact resistance enhancers. 

• Printing Machine

Logos, company names, and other specifications, as requested by the customer, are printed during this process. This process plays a significant role in the plastic packaging production unit.

• Sealing and Cutting Machine

As the print process is finished, hot knives are used to give the correct size & outlook of the product. 

Location

It has been noted that one might need about 2,000 - 3,000 square feet to set up a production unit. A sufficient amount of space would be needed to carry out the production processes.
 
Power requirements

It calls for a biodegradable plastic packaging production unit that can work with a 3-phase AC 40-80 KW power supply.

Workforce needed

The workforce required to set up biodegradable plastic packaging production units is 12-15.

Licenses & Approvals

To set up a production facility and ensure compliance with regulations, you must apply for licenses and registrations from the concerned authorities. These laws vary state-wise, but the documents needed and required are-

• You require a trade license from the municipal body authority in your area
• You need to obtain the GST registration online from the GST Portal.
• You require Fire NOC (No objection certificate).
• NOC from CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) is important.
• IS 17899 T:2022 has to be acquired from CIPET

Promote your Biodegradable plastic packaging production unit

Marketing's power should be recognized. Highlight the eco-friendliness of your products and their benefits over traditional plastic packaging. Reach out to potential customers and distributors through social media, trade shows, and other marketing channels.

At Corpseed, our team has years of experience and extensive knowledge of biodegradable plastics. We are well-versed in setting up a biodegradable plastic packaging production unit and offer client consultation through desk-based research, documentation, and coordination. We want to help companies figure out what has to be done to set up the unit. Corpseed is a one-stop shop for all of your business needs as a result.