Standards Development

Scope

This proposed series of standards specify the comprehensive methods for the environmental value proposition of biobased plastics. Identification and quantification of biobased content is based on the radioactive 14C associated with biobased carbon. Using experimentally determined biocarbon content values, one can calculate the intrinsic CO2 emissions reduction achieved by substituting fossil-based carbon with biobased carbon—the material carbon footprint value proposition. The process carbon footprint arising from the conversion of feedstock to the factory gate is computed using life-cycle assessment methodology. Issue of managing carbon (carbon-based materials) in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner.

Purpose

The purpose of this proposal is summarized as follows.

- To clarify the positive and enormous impact on the future global environment by replacing fossilbased materials to biobased materials.

- To offer the comprehensive methods for the value proposition of biobased plastics, which include the conventional LCA method, to the stake holders.

Carbon is the major basic element that is the building block of all plastics, fuels, and even life itself. Therefore, discussions on sustainability and environmental responsibility have centered on the carbon footprint of bioplastics using biobased carbon content analysis of bio-based plastics, in which the fossil carbon is replaced by bio/renewable-based carbon. It offers the intrinsic value proposition of a reduced carbon footprint and are in complete harmony with the rates and time scale of the biological carbon cycle. Indeed, the burning issue of today is concern over increasing human-made CO2 emissions with no offsetting sequestration and removal of the released CO2. Reducing our carbon footprint is a major challenge. Reduced CO2 emissions translate to minimizing global warming-climate change problems.