PLA vs. PET: Breaking Down the Differences for Eco-Conscious Consumers

Did you know the average person uses over 185 pounds of plastic each year?  As we become more eco-conscious, understanding the types of plastic we use is crucial. Today, we’re comparing two popular plastics: PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) and PLA (Polylactic Acid). Which one is the true eco-warrior? Let’s dive in!

What’s PET Plastic All About?

PET 101:

PET, or Polyethylene Terephthalate, is a plastic commonly used in soda bottles and food containers. It’s renowned for its strength, transparency, and versatility.

Pros:

• Durability: PET is incredibly strong and resilient.
• Recyclability: PET is highly recyclable and widely accepted in recycling programs. In fact, PET bottles can be recycled into new bottles, textiles, and more.
• Safety: PET is considered safe for drinking water and other beverages, making it a popular choice for food-grade containers.
• Cost-Effectiveness: PET is cost-efficient, making it a favorite for manufacturers and consumers.

How PET Plastic is Made:

PET is produced by polymerizing ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid. These monomers react to form long chains of PET, which can then be molded into various shapes and products.

Environmental Impact:

While PET is recyclable, not all of it gets recycled. A significant portion ends up in landfills, contributing to pollution. However, PET’s production process has a relatively low carbon footprint compared to other plastics.

Get to Know PLA Plastic!

PLA Basics:

PLA, or Polylactic Acid, is a bioplastic made from renewable resources like corn starch and sugarcane. It’s designed to be compostable, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics.

Pros:

• Biodegradability: PLA breaks down naturally under the right conditions, making it a great option for single-use items.
• Renewable Sources: PLA is made from plants, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.
• Lower Carbon Footprint: The production of PLA generates fewer greenhouse gases compared to traditional plastics.

How PLA is Made:

PLA is produced by fermenting sugars from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. The fermentation process creates lactic acid, which is then polymerized to form PLA.

What is Polylactic Acid:

PLA is a bioplastic derived from fermented plant starch. It’s known for its biodegradability and is often used in compostable utensils, packaging, and even fabrics.

Why is Polylactic Acid Biodegradable:

PLA’s biodegradability stems from its natural plant-based origins. Microorganisms can break down PLA into water, carbon dioxide, and organic materials under the right conditions, typically in industrial composting facilities.

Environmental Impact:

While PLA is compostable, it requires specific industrial composting facilities to break down properly. If it ends up in a regular landfill, it may not decompose as intended. However, PLA’s potential to reduce plastic waste is significant when composting facilities are available.

PET vs. PLA Showdown! 

Head-to-Head:

- Strength and Flexibility: PET is the heavyweight champ, known for its strength and durability. PLA, while sturdy, is better suited for lightweight applications.

- Transparency: Both plastics offer excellent clarity, but PET is more commonly used for clear packaging.

- Best Use Cases: PET is perfect for single or multi-use beverage and food containers, while PLA shines in single-use packaging like utensils and compostable containers. Additionally, PLA plastic has a shorter lifespan in terms of durability, and is more sensitive to high temperatures than its counterpart. 

Eco-Friendliness Face-Off:

- Recyclability vs. Biodegradability: PET can be recycled multiple times, reducing the need for new plastic production. PLA, on the other hand, biodegrades but requires industrial composting facilities.

- Carbon Footprints: PLA generally has a lower carbon footprint during production, but PET’s recycling capabilities help offset its environmental impact.

Wallet Wars:

-Production Costs: PET is cheaper to produce, making it a cost-effective option. PLA, while slightly more expensive, offers environmental benefits that many are willing to pay a premium for.

- Market Trends: With growing consumer demand for sustainability, both PET and PLA are gaining traction, but PLA is particularly favored by those looking for compostable options.

Looking Ahead

Innovations on the Horizon:

The future of PET and PLA is bright, with ongoing research into making PET more recyclable and PLA more compostable in home settings. Innovations like bio-PET, made from renewable resources, and enhanced PLA composites are on the horizon.

Smart Choices for Businesses and Consumers:

Businesses should consider their specific needs and environmental goals when choosing between PET and PLA. Consumers can help by supporting products that prioritize sustainability and by properly recycling or composting plastics as intended.

Choosing between PET and PLA isn’t black and white. Both have their strengths and play vital roles in reducing our environmental footprint. By understanding the differences and making informed choices, we can all contribute to a greener future.

Sources:

• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33705768/
• https://plabottles.eu/plant-based-bottles-vs-pet-bottles/
• https://nature.berkeley.edu/classes/es196/projects/2011final/ShenJ_2011.pdf