Science and Technology News

Bio-Based PLA Plastics

September 27 , 2026 6 hrs 0 min 10 0

India has started the commercial transition and pilot-scale manufacturing of bio-based, biodegradable Polylactic Acid (PLA) plastics under the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy.
A 100 Tonnes Per Annum (TPA) pilot facility is being established at Kumbhi, Uttar Pradesh, using agricultural feedstock such as sugarcane molasses and bagasse.
PLA is a bio-based thermoplastic made from fermented plant materials such as sugarcane, corn and cassava.
PLA can be industrially composted and breaks down into water, carbon dioxide and organic matter under suitable conditions.
It can reduce dependence on petroleum-based plastics and convert agricultural waste into useful products.
PLA can be used in compostable packaging, agricultural films and consumer products.