Designing with bio-based plastics: guidance for circular product development

The transition to a circular economy calls for reduced reliance on fossil resources. Bio-based plastics offer potential environmental benefits, but their effective use in durable products is complex and under-researched. This study explores key considerations product developers face when using bio-based plastics in circular product development, with a focus on durable applications. Semi-structured interviews with product developers and a scoping literature review were conducted to identify and examine these considerations across the product life cycle. Eight key considerations were derived, highlighting dilemmas related to feedstock selection, regulations, material properties, the mass balance approach, costs, consumer perception, recovery strategies, and biodegradability. The study presents guidance to support product developers in navigating these considerations and making informed decisions. Results highlight the importance of early-stage life cycle thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration. Despite challenges, bio-based plastics can contribute to circular product development when supported by dedicated investments in knowledge and time to, for example, source bio-based plastics with low environmental impact and explore new design opportunities with novel bio-based plastics. The findings offer both theoretical insight and guidance for product developers aiming to incorporate bio-based plastics in their products.