Biomaterials represent a new wave of innovation in material science, blending ecological awareness with advanced technology to meet the needs of a sustainable future.
In this article, we'll discuss what qualifies a material as 'bio' and look at the implications for industries seeking environmentally friendly alternatives.
What qualifies as a biomaterial?
Biomaterials are materials derived from natural sources, and they refer to substances that originate from living organisms or their byproducts.
Also referred to as natural materials or bio-based materials, biomaterials include a wide variety of natural elements like plant fibers and animal proteins, in contrast to synthetic materials that come from chemical processes and non-renewable resources.
To qualify as a biomaterial, a material should be biodegradable, derived from renewable resources, and can be used in the production of goods and packaging, often as an environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based materials.
Key properties of biomaterials
Biodegradability and compostability
Biomaterials can be broken down by biological processes. For instance, biomaterials like polylactic acid (PLA) degrade into natural compounds. In addition to biodegradability, some biomaterials can be broken down into compost under the right conditions as well (compostability).
Renewability
Derived from living sources that can be replenished over a short period, such as bamboo or corn, biomaterials offer a sustainable option for manufacturing.
This contrasts with finite resources like petroleum used for conventional plastics, which contribute to the depletion of natural resources and environmental pollution.
Lower carbon footprint
Production and disposal of biomaterials typically result in lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional materials, contributing to a reduction in the carbon footprint. This is because biomaterials, such as those derived from plant sources, capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during their growth phase, potentially offsetting emissions released during manufacturing.
At the same time, their biodegradability ensures that at the end of their lifecycle, they can break down more naturally, often without releasing harmful byproducts, thereby reducing their environmental impact compared to their non-biodegradable counterparts.
Non-toxicity
Biomaterials often lack the toxic additives found in some synthetic materials, making them safer for use in a variety of contexts, including food packaging and clothing. This means that when these materials are eventually disposed of, they are less likely to leach toxins into the soil and waterways, reducing environmental contamination.
Below is a table to summarize properties of some biomaterials in comparison to their conventional counterparts
Conclusion
Biomaterials offer a great blend of innovation and sustainability, as they offer a compelling alternative to non-renewable resources. Their biodegradability, renewability, and potential to minimize environmental impact make them an interesting choice for eco-conscious brands.
With each advancement in this field, we move closer to a future where economic growth and environmental conservation go hand in hand.
→ Design is entering the grown-material era. Download Bioeconomy 2025-2026 for the textures, processes, and CMF engineering cues coming out of labs - and into products.
References
- HeleneM. (2022, March 25). Biomaterials: the new plastic - Aster Fab. Aster Fab. https://aster-fab.com/biomaterials-the-new-plastic/
- Moore, A. (n.d.). New Biomaterial Could Save Our Oceans From Plastic Pollution. College of Natural Resources News. https://cnr.ncsu.edu/news/2022/03/new-biomaterial-plastic-pollution/
- Puig, D. (2023, May 8). The Comeback of Biomaterials: A Sustainable Alternative to Conventional Plastics. Earth.Org. https://earth.org/biomaterials-comeback/
- Woodly. (2021, April 22). What are biomaterials? - Woodly. Woodly. https://woodly.com/circular_economy/what-are-biomaterials/
