Recycling

NatureWorks® biopolymer has the potential to be disposed of via a variety of conventional methods and offer new options for the future, including industrial composting.

The multiple disposal alternatives of NatureWorks biopolymer means it can play a key role in landfill diversion.  NatureWorks biopolymer has been successfully composted in applications where collection is feasible and a commercial composting infrastructure is in place. If land-filled, PLA is inert – it contains no harmful toxins that can leach into the soil.

Trials by leading machine sorting system manufacturers show that NatureWorks biopolymer can be separated from the post-consumer RPET (recycled Polyethylene Terapthalate) stream, and can be separated into its own stream when post-consumer amounts warrant. NatureWorks continues to work with recycling stakeholders to ensure the successful integration of PLA into the recycling stream.  In addition to its ability to be mechanically recycled and composted, NatureWorks biopolymer has shown favorable properties for use where incineration is the preferred waste disposal system and offers potential for chemical recycling. 

To assist recyclers in North America, NatureWorks LLC has established a post-consumer bottles buy-back program to facilitate the removal of collected PLA bottles until the market for recycled PLA has matured.