Limited impact seen for degradable ackaging

The impact of degradable plastic films on certain packaging end-use markets may be significantly less than once thought. According to a recent study by Kline & Co., a New Jersey-based consulting firm, degradable films will account for only 11% of their 2.8 billion lb market potential by 1994. At current levels, this means that degradable films would make up about 5% of the total packaging film market. To reduce solid waste and litter, degradable plastic films are expected to be targeted by consumers and legislators for six end-use areas: compost bags, grocery sacks, merchandise bags, trash bags, garbage bags, and diaper backing. However, the study reports, only compost bags, with 54% in degradable films, will account for a significant portion of the films' market potential. Figures for the remaining five markets show degradable films at levels of 17% in merchandise bags, and 11% or much less in the other areas Because of increased consumer interest, ...