Editorial dear readers
Editorial dear readers Some 15 years ago, when the PET bottle really started to take off, the arguments in its favour were obvious. Compared to glass, the plastic bottles are lightweight, unbreakable and easy to carry because of their neck-ring. PET also has certain environmental advantages too - the lower weight reduces diesel consumption during transport, and PET melts at a temperature significantly lower than glass, so using less energy when bottles are initially produced and recycled. And now one more point can be added to the list of arguments in favour of plastic bottles. PLA, as an alternative plastic, is made from renewable resources - mainly starch derived from corn, sugar cane, sugar beet or even sweet potatoes. Not only is PLA made from products that can be relatively easily grown and therefore readily renewable, but after its initial use it can be recycled, composted under certain conditions, or cleanly incinerated with energy recovery. A number of beverage and dairy companies are evaluating the use of this rather new material, or already use PLA for bottle applications. The special editorial focus in this issue of bioplastics MAGAZINE is on bottle applications, including the use of bio-sourced and biodegradable labels and caps. We talked to five of the early pioneers that now use PLA for their bottles, and asked them about their motivation, their experiences and their future plans. All five still consider the decision to go for PLA as the right one. Those interested to learn more about PLA for bottles, bioplastic labels and caps, or who wish to discuss barrier issues, end of life options and many more detailed aspects than are covered in this issue, are cordially invited to the 1st PLA Bottle Conference organised by bioplastics MAGAZINE. We are running the two-day conference on the 12th and 13th of September in Hamburg, Germany. Please visit our website for details. Special editorial Focus: Bottles, Labels, Caps | 10 02 | 2007 Vol. 2 ISSN 1862-5258 And in this, our fourth issue, you’ll also find more of the latest bioplastics news, updates on materials, processing, events and much more – and not only about bottles! Michael Thielen Publisher bioplastics MAGAZINE Bioplastics vs. agricultural land | 36 Logos, Part 4 | 38 bioplastics MAGAZINE [02/07] Vol. 2
