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  • Upcoming regulations and laws for plastic manufacturers

    Although many REACH requirements already apply, the regulatory framework continues to evolve. New substances and restrictions are being added, particularly in relation to substances such as PFAS, microplastics and other harmful chemicals in plastics.Companies handling plastic materials therefore need to follow developments closely to ensure they meet both current and future requirements.


    Restrictions on microplastics

    The EU is planning to introduce restrictions on intentionally added microplastics in products. This may affect plastic manufacturers who use microplastics as additives in their products and will lead to increased demand for alternatives.

    National initiatives

    Several EU countries have introduced their own regulations to reduce plastic waste. For example, some countries have introduced taxes on plastic bags or bans on specific plastic products. These national initiatives can influence plastic manufacturers and drive the transition to bioplastics.

  • Standards and certifications for bioplastics

    To ensure quality and environmental performance, several standards and certifications exist for bioplastics:

    • EN 13432: A European standard specifying requirements for compostability and biodegradability of packaging.
    • OK Compost (TÜV Austria) A certification indicating that a product is industrially compostable according to EN 13432.
    • “OK Home Compost” (TÜV Austria) – A certification indicating that a product is compostable in home compost.
    • OK Biodegradable Soil and Marine: Certifications indicating that a product is biodegradable in soil and marine environments respectively.
    • BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute, USA). Less common in Sweden, but important for Nordic companies exporting to the USA.
    • The Seedling label (European Bioplastics) is widely known and accepted throughout the Nordic region and indicates that a product is compostable according to EN 13432.
    • ASTM D6866 (Bio-based content) for products marketed as ‘bio-based’.

  • Knowing the rules, regulations and certifications for plastics

    The EU has implemented a comprehensive plastics strategy to reduce plastic waste and promote the transition to a circular economy. This strategy includes measures to limit single-use plastic products and encourage the use of sustainable alternatives, including bioplastics. There are also a range of certifications related to plastics. In this knowledge article, we provide an overview of the field.

    The REACH regulation

    REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) is the overarching EU regulation for the control of chemicals. It also covers plastics and bioplastics, particularly in relation to additives and monomers used in production. All manufacturers in the plastics sector must ensure that their products comply with REACH requirements in order to be sold in the EU.

    Under the REACH Regulation, manufacturers and importers must register all chemical substances used in plastics, provided the quantity exceeds one ton per year. Registration requires detailed information on the properties, potential risks and safe use of the substance. Once registered, substances are evaluated by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to ensure they meet safety requirements. If a substance is assessed as potentially hazardous, a more in-depth review may be carried out.

    Some substances with hazardous properties, such as carcinogens or endocrine disruptors, may require authorization to be used in plastics production. The aim of the authorization process is to phase out so-called ‘Substances of Very High Concern’ (SVHC) and replace them with safer alternatives. In addition, REACH may also restrict or completely ban the use of certain chemicals in plastics. Examples include phthalates, used as plasticizers, and bisphenol A (BPA), both of which are subject to restrictions. For example, phthalates are banned in toys and medical devices where they can cause harm if exposed.

  • The transition to green materials requires investment

    Evaluate economic and technical factors

    The transition to green materials requires investment, but also a careful analysis of cost-effectiveness.

    • Calculate life-cycle costs: Evaluate the cost of bioplastics in relation to their environmental benefits and potential customer value.
    • Product properties: Ensure that bioplastics meet the same strength, heat resistance and processability requirements as fossil-based plastics.
    • Certifications and labeling: Ensure that your products can be labeled as sustainable, for example with TÜV Austria or other relevant certification.

    Make sure your products can be labeled as sustainable, for example with TÜV Austria or other relevant certification.

    Step 4: Communication and reporting

    To benefit from your transition, it is important to clearly communicate your progress to customers and stakeholders.

    • CSRD alignment: Start reporting sustainability data in line with the new EU
      directive.
    • Promote sustainability: Highlight your bioplastics solutions and sustainable initiatives in marketing and sales.
    • Educate staff and customers: Ensure that both employees and customers understand the benefits of bioplastics and circular solutions.

    In conclusion

    The transition to bioplastics and environmentally friendly alternatives requires a strategic and well-planned process. By following this checklist, plastics manufacturers can take concrete steps towards a more sustainable business. By analyzing current production, exploring bioplastic alternatives, integrating circular models and communicating their progress, companies can not only reduce their environmental impact, but also strengthen their brand and meet future customer and regulatory requirements.

  • Before you can start replacing materials or processes

    As the demand for sustainable materials increases and regulations such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) tighten, plastics manufacturers are faced with the need to adapt to a more environmentally friendly future. To meet these demands, bioplastics and sustainable alternatives can be a crucial part of the solution.

    Here is a practical checklist to start the transition and take the first steps towards a more sustainable business.

    Step 1: Analyze current production

    Before you can start replacing materials or processes, it is important to understand your current production.

    • Map raw material use: Identify the types of plastics and fossil raw materials used today.
    • Emissions analysis: Calculate your company’s climate impact, including Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions (read more here).
    • Identify key products: Focus on the products where switching to bioplastics or other sustainable materials can make the biggest difference.

    Step 2: Explore bioplastic materials

    Bioplastic materials can be an important part of the solution to reduce climate impact. Start by exploring the options.


    – Choose the right type of bioplastic:

    Bio-based plastics: For example, PLA or bio-based polyethylene (PE).
    Biodegradable plastics: For example, PHA or PBAT, which can degrade naturally under certain conditions.

    – Ensure compatibility:

    Test whether bioplastics work in your existing production and machinery.

    – Supplier partnerships:

    Identify suppliers that offer certified bioplastic materials suitable for your production.

    See the different types of bioplastic materials A Good Chooice offers here:

  • Gothenburg Invests in Sustainable Artificial Turf – and We Are Proud to Be a Part of It!

    Starting in 2031, rubber granules, which are used on many artificial turf fields today, will be banned due to harmful microplastics spreading in nature.

    We are delighted that our bio-based infill, OD400, developed on Hönö in Gothenburg, has been chosen by IFK Gothenburg for their new artificial turf field. OD400 meets all environmental requirements and is FIFA PRO certified, ensuring a great playing experience.

    A big thank you to Göteborgs-Posten for highlighting our collaboration! 🙏

    We look forward to being part of the transition and providing more clubs and municipalities with sustainable alternatives that are good for both the environment and the game.

  • Customer case: City of Gothenburg

    The City of Gothenburg conducts extensive environmental work, including limiting microplastics from the city’s artificial grass pitches. The EU has banned the sale of all rubber-based infill material for sports pitches from October 2031 – with a phase-out from 2023.

    When the Sports and Associations Administration of the City of Gothenburg builds new artificial turf pitches or renovates existing ones, the choice of infill material is crucial. For the construction of the Kortedalavallen artificial turf pitch in 2021, AGC/OD100 was chosen, and the results have been very positive – with high ratings from both players and the administration. The higher density of the material makes it particularly well adapted to the Nordic climate, as it neither floats nor blows away. It is also resistant to UV radiation, which contributes to a long lifespan. Compared to fossil-based car tire infill, our material is a more durable option that does not absorb water, improving year-round usability.

  • Intelligent Solutions for a Greener Future

    We are changing our name – but our mission remains the same: to create smart and sustainable biomaterials for the future.

    Since the start in 2018, we have developed bioplastics in our lab on Hönö under the name A Good Choice (company name ImproveTech Hönö).
    Now we are taking the next step in our company journey – and changing our name to BIQ Materials.

    “The name change to BIQ Materials marks an important milestone in our journey. We have now laid the foundation for a commercial scale-up of the company, and our new name reflects exactly what we stand for – biodegradable, intelligent materials. We will be the smart alternative – both for business and for the planet,” says Fredrik Bergegård/Jerker Funnemark (we get to decide who speaks).

    BIQ Materials stands for IQ + BIO – intelligent and smart biomaterials and is a name that better reflects both our technology and our ambition: to offer bio-based plastic materials that are functional, circular and smart to use. We have several bioplastic materials in our product portfolio – adapted for different types of industrial plastic production, and we also offer bioinfill for artificial grass pitches.

  • Is Artificial Turf Worth the Cost?

    The cost of artificial turf can be higher than traditional sod, but the long-term savings and benefits it offers often outweigh the initial investment. With minimal maintenance requirements, water conservation, and durability, artificial turf is a cost-effective solution for residential lawns, sports fields, and commercial applications alike.

    Before purchasing, it’s important to consider the quality of the turf, the installation costs, and the long-term savings. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that ensures you get the best value for your money.

    Understanding Artificial Turf Cost: Key Factors and Insights for Suppliers and Project Managers

    This guide provides valuable insights into artificial turf cost, helping potential clients understand what goes into the pricing structure. It highlights key factors such as material quality, installation, and long-term savings, offering a comprehensive resource for artificial grass suppliers, wholesalers, and project managers in the sports and leisure sectors.

  • With proper care, high-quality artificial turf can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years.

    Long-Term Cost Considerations

    While the initial cost of artificial turf may seem high, it’s important to consider the long-term savings. Here are a few factors to think about:

    4.1 Maintenance Savings

    One of the main advantages of artificial turf is that it requires minimal maintenance compared to natural grass. There’s no need for watering, mowing, or fertilizing, which can lead to significant savings over time. For instance, water bills can be reduced by as much as 60% in areas with limited water supply.

    Durability and Longevity

    With proper care, high-quality artificial turf can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. This durability provides excellent long-term value, especially in high-traffic areas like sports fields or public parks. The longevity of artificial grass means you won’t need to replace it frequently, saving you money on ongoing maintenance or replacements.

    4.3 Energy Savings

    Because artificial grass requires no irrigation or chemical treatments, it can be a more sustainable option in terms of energy use, particularly for residential properties in drought-prone areas.