CLIMATE PROTECTION

Today mainly man-made influences are considered to be reasons for climate change. Burning fossil resources increases the share of CO2 in atmosphere, which causes an increase of the average temperature (greenhouse effect). Scientists see a distinct connection between CO2 increase in atmosphere and the increase of number of thunderstorms, floods and aridity. Climate protection is nowadays a central part of environmental policy, due to the fact that climate change can create far-reaching negative consequences. Governments and organisations work against this threat with targeted measures.

The increased use of renewable resources is an important step towards a solution. Life cycle analysis show, that bioplastics enable a CO2 saving of 30 to 80% compared to conventional plastics. But this does not apply generally and inevitably, it depends on the product and application. The saving (in case of the same application) results from the use of renewable resources.

Bioplastics in general are considered to be „climate friendly“ materials: In comparison to materials such as metal or concrete they can be easily and without spending much energy produced, transported or used. In the sector of automotive engineering (lightweight construction) or as thermal insulating material plastics enable significant “secondary” effects by protecting resources and saving CO2. Examples for the successful use of bioplastics exist already: Goodyear’s car tyres hold a share of starch material, that decreases the tyre’s rolling resistance and are therefore able to also decrease fuel consumption.