Consumers Are Confused

New, "green" biopolymer plastics need to be introduced with care if potential environmental benefits are to be maximised, says the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP, Banbury / UK; www.wrap.org.uk). The warning follows a research study that shows consumers are confused by the wide range of new materials, with "biodegradable"’, "home compostable", "compostable" and "degradable" all being introduced in bag, pot, tray, film and bottle formats. WRAP believes that material producers and retailers have a responsibility for introducing the materials in a responsible and coordinated manner. It says clear labelling and guidelines are vital. /Plastics Information Europe/