In Latin America, the chemical industry faces a dual challenge: moving toward more sustainable models without losing competitiveness in demanding markets. In this context, biodegradable packaging has gained relevance as an intermediate option when bulk shipping, the most efficient and environmentally friendly alternative, is not viable.

As governments, businesses, and consumers raise their expectations for environmental performance, a key question arises: how can we achieve a more sustainable supply chain without compromising safety or operational viability?

Bulk as an ideal standard
Bulk shipping, whenever possible, represents the most responsible and efficient way to transport chemical raw materials. It significantly reduces the use of plastic packaging, decreases industrial waste, and optimizes logistics costs. However, in many cases, especially in international shipments or when smaller volumes are required, the use of individual packaging is still necessary.

This is where biodegradable packaging emerges as a valuable alternative to complement sustainability efforts.

What is biodegradable packaging and why does it matter?
Biodegradable packaging is designed to decompose naturally under specific conditions, leaving no toxic residue. They are typically made from materials such as PLA (polylactic acid), corn starch, sugarcane bagasse, or PBAT, and aim to mitigate the pollution caused by conventional plastic.

In Latin America, where significant gaps in waste management and recycling remain, these materials can offer an additional advantage by reducing pressure on landfills and inefficient collection systems.

Key advantages

Reduction of environmental impact: They decompose faster and without polluting.

Corporate reputation: Companies that adopt these solutions strengthen their commitment to the environment, generating trust in consumers and partners.

Alignment with new regulations: Countries such as Chile, Colombia, and Mexico have already implemented regulations that limit or prohibit the use of certain single-use plastics.

Challenges in the Latin American context

Despite its potential, the adoption of biodegradable packaging in Latin America is not without obstacles:

High cost: These materials are still more expensive than their conventional plastic counterparts, and their production in the region is limited.

Lack of infrastructure: Many countries lack industrial composting plants and adequate collection systems to ensure proper composting.

Lack of awareness and misinformation: Some products labeled as “biodegradable” do not meet international standards or require very specific conditions for decomposition.

Technological barrier: The strength and durability of these materials remains inferior for certain industrial uses.

Innovation and the circular economy in Latin America
In several countries across the region, initiatives focused on sustainable packaging design and the implementation of circular economy models are beginning to emerge. Local companies are exploring the use of agricultural waste, such as sugarcane bagasse or coffee husks, to develop new packaging materials.

At the same time, the chemical industry is investing in chemical and mechanical recycling technologies, which allow for the recovery of value from waste that was previously discarded. While these advances are still in their infancy, they mark a clear path toward a more regenerative industrial model.

Conclusion
In Latin America, where sustainability still competes with other structural emergencies, biodegradable packaging offers a necessary intermediate solution in the transition toward greener chemistry. Although bulk shipping should remain the ideal standard due to its logistical and environmental benefits, compostable and eco-friendly packaging represents a strategic tool when bulk shipping is not viable.

Achieving broader adoption requires a combination of innovation, clear public policies, and regional partnerships that foster the development of new materials and waste management systems tailored to our needs.

At Chem Fluid, we recognize the transformative potential of these solutions. That's why we not only promote the use of bulk shipping whenever possible, but we also actively work to research and implement more sustainable packaging in partnership with our suppliers and customers in Latin America. Our commitment is clear: to move toward a more responsible, efficient supply chain aligned with the sustainability principles that the future of our industry demands.