This report examines the claim that biodegradable plastics increase littering behavior and finds no robust evidence supporting this assumption. The research reveals littering is primarily driven by convenience and situational factors rather than material properties. The findings challenge a key misconception that has been hampering biodegradable materials market development.

The new report "From Research to Revenue: The Case for Scaling UK Bio-based Innovation" reveals the UK excels at creating bio-based startups but struggles to scale them domestically, with many relocating abroad for better infrastructure. The BB-REG-NET research shows internationally-active firms employ more staff and generate nearly twice the revenue of UK-focused counterparts. Addressing these scale-up barriers could create 4,230 new jobs and add £300-500 million in GVA to the economy through enhanced infrastructure, targeted patient capital, streamlined regulation, cross-sector collaboration, and dedicated 'scale-up scientists'.

Amidst growing demands for sustainable solutions, the UK's bio-based and biodegradable materials sector stands at a critical crossroads. While boasting world-class research capabilities, the industry grapples with commercialisation barriers that threaten to send innovation, investment, and expertise abroad. The newly released Bio-Barometer Survey reveals a clear disconnect between the UK's impressive knowledge generation and its ability to translate this into market success, highlighting urgent needs for policy reform, improved funding mechanisms, and greater public understanding if to capitalise on this sector's potential for both environmental sustainability and economic growth.

The UK's bioeconomy is hindered by competing departmental perspectives and policy fragmentation despite substantial investment. Research shows transitioning to bio-based solutions could generate £204bn revenue while advancing Net Zero goals. BB-REG-NET aims to establish policy cohesion by bringing together stakeholders to position the UK as a bioeconomy leader.