Replacing single-use plastics with biomaterial packaging in Thailand and impacts on the water-energy-climate Nexus

Abstract

Despite the potential benefits of biomaterial packaging in reducing plastic waste, evaluating its environmental impact at a regional or national level is imperative. This study evaluated options for replacing single-use plastics in Thailand with biomaterial packaging. We focused on plastic bags, foam food boxes, and plastic trays and cups, considering their volume of consumption and end-of-life management in 2020 as a base case. We examined the effects of this replacement on water scarcity, energy consumption, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions throughout the life cycle, and the reduction of waste mismanagement. Based on our findings, the optimal approach to manufacturing biomaterials and managing their end-of-life phase could lower GHG emissions by 1980 kt CO2-eq per year, reduce landfill waste by 490 kt per year, and decrease mismanaged waste by 987 kt per year in comparison to the 2020 baseline (conventional plastics). However, to achieve this scenario, a remarkable amount of biomaterial is required. The demand for sugarcane as a feedstock for biomaterial production (15 million t/y) accounts for 20 % of Thailand's total output or half of its sugar exports. However, the need for cassava as a feedstock for biomaterial production (1 million t/y) accounts for only 1 % of the entire output or less than 10 % of cassava exports. To enhance the productivity of biomass feedstocks, additional land and water resources will be necessary compared to the 2020 base case. This could result in a doubling of the water demand, which would exacerbate water scarcity compared to the 2020 base case. Using biomaterials in packaging can be an effective way to decrease plastic waste and its related environmental impacts. However, proper waste management should be prioritized. Policymakers should carefully consider the environmental impacts and resource security implications of bio-based packaging.