The United Nations has predicted that plastic production will account for 20% of all the world's total oil consumption by 2050 if we continue to produce at current levels.  As part of the government's response, the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund Wave 3 includes a £60m challenge on smart, sustainable plastics which will develop new forms of plastic and consumer-friendly packaging formats in order to help reduce waste and address other environmental impacts. Innovative solutions to this issue bring with them the potential for growth and jobs in sectors that can help provide solutions. 

In brief, this call seeks evidence from scientists, manufacturers and the research community, on the sustainability and wider impacts of biodegradable, compostable, and bio-based plastics and asks whether new and improved standards and labelling for these materials would be valuable.

At this stage there are no proposals (for specific smarter, sustainable plastics) on which the government is seeking comments. They are working with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and industry to seek evidence on the demand, benefits and implications of standards for bio-based and biodegradable (including compostable) plastics.  

Government is seeking evidence that identifies gaps and provides expert advice on:

Government is looking for robust evidence backed by scientific theory, direct practical experience, or analysis, rather than opinion. This could include reference to relevant case studies, trials, academic literature or published statistics, as well as an indication of the level of consensus amongst experts working on this topic.