BB-REG-NET report challenges perception about biodegradable packaging, suggesting improper waste disposal is driven by convenience and item size instead.
There is no evidence that links biodegradable plastics to increased littering, according to a new report from BB-REG-NET.
The ‘Do Biodegradable Plastics Encourage Littering? A Critical Review: Unpacking the Paradox’ report challenges the longstanding assumption that biodegradable packaging may encourage littering, which has hindered policy development in the UK’s bioeconomy sector.
The research found that littering behaviour is primarily driven by convenience and situational factors, rather than material properties of the items. Its analysis suggests that concern about biodegradable plastics is largely based on perception, anecdote, and limited empirical research.
Polly-Ann Hanson, Consultant at Alder BioInsights and lead author of the report, explained: “We were challenged with the view that increasing the use of biodegradable materials would lead to an increase in litter. Through our structured review, we found this concern was based on limited focus group discussions and surveys about attitudes rather than actual behaviour.”
Small items more likely to be littered regardless of biodegradability
Analysis of littering patterns revealed that paper and cardboard, widely recognised as biodegradable materials, are not littered at higher rates than non-biodegradable materials like plastic or metal.
Instead, item size appears to be a greater determinant of littering behaviour, with items such as cigarette stubs and gum packaging comprising the most littered items.
The report analysed data from Keep Britain Tidy and Resource Futures studies showing that the composition of binned waste versus littered waste is similar across material types, suggesting that biodegradability has minimal impact on disposal choices.
| Item material | Litter Bin % item count | Litter pick % item count |
|---|---|---|
| Paper and card | 38.8 | 36.2 |
| Plastic film | 17.9 | 18.4 |
| Other combustible | 13.4 | 12.4 |
| Dense plastic (food packaging) | 10 | 8.6 |
| Metal | 6.5 | 10.1 |
| Dense plastic (drinks) | 4.5 | 5.5 |
| Dense plastic (non-packaging) | 3.6 | - |
| Glass | 2.1 | - |
| Other | 3 | 8.9 |
Table 1: Composition of analysed waste, bin and littered, by percentage item count
A study by Zero Waste Scotland cited in the report also found that the belief that food and biodegradable products decompose rapidly ranked among the lower influencers of littering behaviour, below factors like convenience, social attitudes, and location.
Policy barriers to bioeconomy sector growth
This perception has acted as a barrier to developing policies that could stimulate growth in biodegradable materials markets, according to the report. However, the concerns have grown traction, being highlighted in the UK Government's 2021 response to a call for evidence on Standards for bio-based, biodegradable, and compostable plastics.
Adrian Higson, Managing Director of Alder BioInsights (formerly known as NNFCC), added: “In the context of the UK’s bioeconomy, linking biodegradable materials with litter is a red herring.
“UK policy must focus on the real benefits and potential of biodegradable materials within a modern waste management system, rather than be held back by misplaced fears of increased littering rates.”
A recent report from BB-REG-NET suggested that the UK’s bioeconomy has the potential to generate up to £204 billion in revenue, with the right legislative support.
“No packaging belongs in the environment”
While the report finds no evidence linking biodegradable plastics to increased littering, it emphasises that these materials should not provide a “licence to litter”.
The researchers recommend that, unless specifically related to disposal, products should not be labelled or marketed as biodegradable. UK Advertising Standards Agency guidelines on biodegradable products should continue to be enforced to ensure claims are accurate and verifiable.
Jen Vanderhoven, Chief Operating Officer for the Bio-based and Biodegradable Industries Association (BBIA), commented: “While concerns about biodegradable plastics encouraging littering have circulated for years, there is currently no robust evidence to support this assumption. The narrative is largely built on perception rather than proof.”
The report suggests that consumer messaging should focus on the principle that “no packaging belongs in the natural environment” rather than specifically addressing biodegradable products.
Vanderhoven added: “What’s clear, however, is that no packaging – biodegradable or otherwise – belongs in the environment. Clear labelling and accurate marketing are essential to guide responsible disposal and avoid confusion.”
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There's no easy solution to include glass in the DRS while maintaining a level playing field. Potential approaches include a phased introduction of glass, potentially with higher deposits to reflect its logistical challenges. The government and DMOs could incentivise innovation in glass packaging design and subsidise dedicated return points for glass-handling. Exemptions for smaller businesses unable to handle glass might also be necessary. Any successful solution will likely blend several approaches. It must address the differing priorities of devolved administrations, balance environmental benefits with logistical and cost implications, and be supported by robust consumer education campaigns emphasizing the importance of glass recycling.