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According to the research report, “South America Biodegradable Packaging Market Outlook, 2028” the market is expected to add more than USD 2 Billion from 2023 to 2028. Biodegradable packaging is gaining traction in South America across multiple sectors and industries. Whether in Colombia's coffee fields, Chile's wineries, or Argentina's agricultural richness, businesses across the continent understand the importance of sustainable packaging techniques. Biodegradable packaging is the symbol of a responsible and eco-conscious future on a continent where biodiversity is valued. Bamboo is a popular material for biodegradable packaging since it is a highly sustainable and fast-renewable resource. South America is rich in bamboo groves, particularly in Colombia and Brazil, which can be used to create sustainable packaging solutions. South America has enormous swaths of arable terrain, making it a perfect location for the growth of crops utilized in the manufacturing process of biodegradable packaging materials such as corn, sugarcane, and cassava. The availability of these resources has spurred innovation in bio-based packaging materials in the region. South America has a significant role in the global coffee and cocoa industries. These businesses generate a lot of agricultural waste, which can be used to make biodegradable packaging materials. Coffee and cocoa manufacturers in the region are increasingly looking at environmentally friendly packaging choices. The Amazon basin's tropical rainforests, which span Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and other South American countries, underscore the crucial need for sustainable packaging. The biodiversity of the region emphasizes the need for ethical packaging solutions to maintain these ecosystems. Innovative enterprises and research activities committed to producing cutting-edge biodegradable packaging solutions have emerged in South America. Bioplastics, edible packaging, and compostable materials are among the developments. South America's commitment to sustainable practices opens up opportunities for a circular economy, where packaging materials are designed to be reused, recycled, or composted. This shift can significantly reduce the environmental impact of packaging in the region.
Based on report market is divided into three major countries Brazil, Argentina and Colombia. Brazil is expected to dominate the market of South America in the coming years.
Brazil's agricultural resources are immense, including sugarcane, corn, and soybeans. These resources can be converted into raw materials for biodegradable packaging, such as bioplastics. Brazil has a competitive advantage in the manufacture of biodegradable materials due to the availability of these resources. Brazil's robust agricultural and forestry sectors position it well for the manufacturing of biodegradable products. These businesses provide renewable resources such as cellulose, which can be utilized to make biodegradable packaging. Brazil's retail and e-commerce sectors are expanding, which means there is a greater need for packaging solutions. Biodegradable packaging is prepared to address the needs of these businesses as they seek more sustainable choices. Brazil's geographical location in South America makes it a regional hub for the distribution of biodegradable packaging. This enables Brazilian firms to enter the larger South American market. Significant investment in research and development has resulted in innovation and enhanced product options in Brazil's biodegradable packaging business. This promotes market expansion and competitiveness.
Based on material type market includes, plastic and bagasse. Paper based material type leads the market of South America. Furthermore based on paper market include corrugated fiberboard, kraft paper, paperboard, flexible paper, boxboard and others (greaseproof paper, corrugated bubblewrap)
Paper-based materials are in line with the growing consumer and business emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. There is growing concern in South America about the environmental impact of traditional plastics, which is boosting demand for alternative, sustainable packaging options. South America has easy access to raw resources used in paper manufacturing, such as timber and pulp from sustainably managed forests. This ensures a consistent supply chain for paper-based packaging. Paper is highly recyclable and generally accepted in South American recycling schemes. Because of its recyclability, it encourages businesses and consumers to use paper-based packaging, minimizing waste and fostering a circular economy. Kraft paper is created from wood pulp, which is often sourced from responsibly managed forests. This makes it a renewable and environmentally beneficial option, which aligns with the increased emphasis on environmental sustainability. Kraft paper is naturally biodegradable, which means it degrades into organic molecules when disposed of, producing minimal environmental harm. This feature is highly appreciated in South America's biodegradable packaging sector, where there is growing concern about plastic pollution and waste. Kraft paper is easily recyclable and is generally accepted in South American recycling schemes. Because of this recyclability, businesses and consumers are more likely to choose kraft paper-based packaging, minimizing waste and fostering a circular economy.
Based on plastic material type market is bifurcated into cellulose-based plastics, polylactic acid (PLA), starch based, poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and others (protein-based bioplastics, genetically modified bioplastics). Polylactic acid (PLA) plastic material is in growing demand in South America.
PLA is seen as a more environmentally friendly alternative to typical petroleum-based polymers. South America, with its abundant agricultural resources, has the capacity to provide the raw ingredients needed for PLA production, which is consistent with the region's sustainability aspirations. PLA is suitable for use in food packaging. PLA's adaptability for food packaging makes it a popular choice in South America, where food safety is a top priority. PLA is a biodegradable material made from renewable resources like corn-starch and sugarcane. It has the ability to spontaneously degrade into organic compounds, making it an environmentally benign alternative. PLA's biodegradability is particularly valued in South America, where there is a growing concern about plastic pollution and waste. PLA can be easily customized for different packaging needs. It is versatile and can be used for a wide range of products, from food containers to consumer goods and cosmetics.
Based on application market is bifurcated into food packaging, beverage packaging, personal/homecare packaging, healthcare/pharmaceutical, logistic and others (agriculture). Based on distribution channel market includes wholesalers, retailers, and others.
In South America, food packaging is the most common application for biodegradable packaging. Chinese consumers are increasingly concerned about the potential health risks associated with traditional plastic packaging. Biodegradable packaging is a safer and more environmentally responsible option for food-contact products. South American consumers are growing more environmentally conscious, and they choose products with eco-friendly packaging. Biodegradable food packaging meets these customer expectations while also increasing the food brand's image. Food companies understand that using biodegradable packaging boosts their brand's image. Consumers share this good image and are more likely to purchase items from companies committed to sustainability. Wholesalers play an important role in optimizing the biodegradable packaging supply chain. They connect manufacturers and producers with retailers and other businesses, ensuring that the distribution process is smooth and efficient. Wholesalers provide a diverse range of biodegradable packaging items, including bags, containers, wraps, and packaging materials. Because of this versatility, firms can get numerous types of biodegradable packaging from a single provider. Wholesalers are strategically situated throughout South America to ensure that biodegradable packaging materials are delivered to businesses on time. This regional distribution network is critical for servicing the wide range of market demands.
Companies Covered in this report:
WestRock Company, The Smurfit Kappa Group plc, BASF SE, Amcor Plc, Mondi Group, Sealed Air Corporation, DuPont, Stora Enso Oyj, Huhtamaki Group.Considered in this report:
- Geography: South America
- Historic year: 2017
- Base year: 2022
- Estimated year: 2023
- Forecast year: 2028
Aspects covered in this report:
- South America Biodegradable Packaging market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
- Country-wise Biodegradable Packaging market analysis
- Various drivers and challenges
- On-going trends and developments
- Top profiled companies
- Strategic recommendation
Country covered in the report:
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Colombia
By Material Type:
- Paper
- Plastic
- Bagasse
By Paper:
- Corrugated Fiberboard
- Kraft Paper
- Paperboard
- Flexible Paper
- Boxboard
- Others (Greaseproof paper, Corrugated BubbleWrap)
By Plastic:
- Cellulose-based plastics
- Polylactic acid (PLA)
- Starch Based
- Poly-3-Hydroxybutyrate (PHB)
- Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)
- Others (protein-based bioplastics, genetically modified bioplastics)
By Application:
- Food Packaging
- Beverage Packaging
- Personal/Homecare Packaging
- Healthcare/Pharmaceutical
- Logistic
- Others (Agriculture)
By Distribution Channel:
- Wholesalers
- Retailers
- Others

