European bioeconomy robust as bio-based industry turnover jumps to 780 billion EUR
The bio-based industries continue their ascent marking a total contribution of 780 billion EUR, a notable increase of 30 billion EUR (+ 4%) compared to 2017. This represents a more than 20% increase compared to 2008 which is the earliest data taken into account in this series of reports by nova-Institute. The first report of the series was first commissioned by the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC) in 2017. Figures for the bio-based chemical industry (including plastics) alone reveal a turnover of around 54 billion EUR, with the bio-based share relatively stable at around 15%, up from 7.5% in 2008.
Japanese beverage giant unveils 100% bio-based PET bottle
In Tokyo, Suntory Group has unveiled a 100% bio-based polyethylene terephthalate prototype developed in collaboration with bio-based chemicals company Anellotech. The material was used to create bottles for the company’s popular Orangina beverage in Europe as well as Suntory Tennensui, its mineral water sold in Japan. The prototypes are a major milestone in Suntory’s decade-long collaboration with Anellotech. The New York-based start-up is developing a bio-based route to paraxylene, a precursor to terephthalic acid, which makes up 70% of PET.
Four in Ten Consumers Have Purchased More Plant-Based Products Since COVID-19
Global consumer demand for plant-based products has increased since the onset of COVID-19, research by Palsgaard suggests. The emulsifier and stabiliser specialist commissioned extensive consumer research into the plant-based market, focusing specifically on three categories: milk alternatives, dairy-free yoghurts, and frozen desserts. The survey found that nearly half of consumers (44%) had purchased more of such products since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Twelve per cent said their purchases of plant-based products had decreased, and 44% said they had stayed the same.