Global Biodegradable Mulch Films Market Insights Forecasts to 2032

• The Global Biodegradable Mulch Films Market Size was valued at USD 52.8 Billion in 2022.
• The Market is Growing at a CAGR of 9.5% from 2022 to 2032
• The Worldwide Biodegradable Mulch Films Market Size is Expected to Reach USD 87.4 Billion by 2032
• Asia Pacific is Expected to Grow the fastest during the forecast period

The Global Biodegradable Mulch Films Market Size is Expected to Reach USD 87.4 Billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 9.5% during the forecast period 2022 to 2032.

Biodegradable mulch films have gained popularity in agriculture as a more environmentally friendly alternative to regular plastic mulch films. Biodegradable materials such as starch, polylactic acid (PLA), or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are commonly used to make these films. Biodegradable mulch films' principal function is to restrict weed growth, conserve soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature. Because of increased environmental consciousness and a trend towards sustainable agricultural practises, the market for biodegradable mulch films has grown significantly in recent years. Farmers are recognising the need of decreasing plastic waste and opting for biodegradable solutions that degrade naturally, reducing environmental impact. Government legislation promoting sustainable agriculture, consumer desire for eco-friendly products, and the overall trend towards environmentally conscious farming practises are key drivers driving the growth of the biodegradable mulch films market. Furthermore, research and development efforts are being directed on enhancing the performance and cost-effectiveness of biodegradable mulch films, which will contribute to market expansion. Despite a positive outlook, difficulties such as production costs and the need for enhanced farmer awareness of the benefits of biodegradable mulch films may have an impact on market growth.

Biodegradable Mulch Films Market Value Chain Analysis

The manufacture of bio-based polymers such as starch, PLA, or PHA starts the value chain. These ingredients form the basis of biodegradable mulch films. Bio-based polymers are used to create biodegradable mulch films. Extrusion or other film-forming procedures are used to manufacture sheets of mulch films. The biodegradable mulch films are created and sold to wholesalers and distributors, who subsequently sell them to retailers. Agricultural retailers sell biodegradable mulch films to farmers and agricultural producers. These retailers may also offer information and assistance with the use of biodegradable mulch films. Farmers that employ biodegradable mulch films on their fields are the end users. The films are applied to the soil to reduce weeds and save moisture. The biodegradable mulch films breakdown organically over time after the growing season. Some films can also be ploughed into the soil to contribute organic matter. The biodegradable mulch films degrade into natural components, leaving no residual plastic waste behind. This is consistent with the overarching goal of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Biodegradable Mulch Films Market Opportunity Analysis

The cost of producing biodegradable mulch films is projected to fall as technology progresses and production increases up. The ability to compete on price with standard plastic films will be critical in promoting wider adoption in the agriculture sector. Customising biodegradable mulch films for specific crops and regional needs allows for market differentiation. Customised solutions that suit the specific needs of various crops might appeal to a wide range of farmers. Extending market reach outside established regions provides prospects for growth. Targeting emerging markets and countries with a high percentage of environmentally concerned farmers can provide biodegradable mulch film makers with new opportunities. Obtaining compostability certifications for biodegradable mulch films, for example, can boost product credibility. Meeting industry standards and certifications might help to recruit environmentally concerned customers and boost a company's market position.

Market Dynamics

Biodegradable Mulch Films Market Dynamics

Demand and need for food crops, on account of the rise in global population

The world's population is continually expanding, boosting demand for food crops. By providing a regulated environment for plant growth, reducing weeds, and conserving soil moisture, biodegradable mulch films provide farmers a way to increase crop yields. This is especially significant in light of increased food demand. With an increasing population, more efficient and sustainable farming practises are required. Biodegradable mulch films help in crop management efficiency by reducing the need for pesticides, conserving water, and improving soil health. This efficiency becomes critical in fulfilling the rising demand for food production. The need to boost production to feed a growing population is driving the use of innovative agricultural technology, including the usage of biodegradable mulch films. Biodegradable mulch films generate an optimised microclimate for crops by increasing soil temperature, retaining moisture, and reducing weed competition. These elements work together to promote crop yields, addressing the demand for increased agricultural production.

Restraints & Challenges

The cost of producing biodegradable mulch films is frequently higher than the cost of producing standard plastic films. This economic challenge may have an impact on the broad adoption of biodegradable alternatives, particularly in countries where farmers' decisions are highly influenced by cost considerations. Some biodegradable mulch films may not be as durable or function as well as regular plastic films. Farmers may be hesitant to adopt these options if they see a trade-off in terms of efficacy and longevity. Many farmers may be unaware of the benefits of biodegradable mulch films or may be unsure how to utilise them appropriately. To overcome this problem and stimulate adoption, education and awareness initiatives are needed. Traditional plastic mulch films and several alternative materials compete in the Biodegradable Mulch Films Market.

Regional Forecasts

North America Market Statistics

North America is anticipated to dominate the Biodegradable Mulch Films Market from 2023 to 2032. Increased environmental awareness, government rules promoting sustainable agriculture, and a growing preference for eco-friendly solutions have all contributed to a positive trend in the adoption of biodegradable mulch films in North America. Both established and developing competitors have entered the market, offering a variety of biodegradable mulch film products. To increase their market position, companies are focusing on innovation, product development, and strategic collaborations. The rate of adoption of biodegradable mulch films may varies across North America. Aspects such as farming practises, climate, and economic factors can all have an impact on the rate of adoption. Several companies in North America are actively involved in the market for biodegradable mulch films. To enhance their positions, both established firms and new entrants are spending in product development, collaborations, and strategic partnerships.

Asia Pacific Market Statistics

Asia Pacific is witnessing the fastest market growth between 2023 to 2032. The Asia-Pacific region has seen expansion in the biodegradable mulch films market, driven by rising environmental consciousness, sustainable agriculture practises, and the need for alternatives to standard plastic films. The different agricultural practises in Asia-Pacific influence the adoption of biodegradable mulch films. Farmers are using these coatings to increase soil health, reduce weeds, and conserve water. The Asia-Pacific region's fast rising population has resulted in increased food demand. Biodegradable mulch films help to improve crop yields and agricultural efficiency, addressing the demand for increased food production. Several local and international companies are competing in the Asia-Pacific biodegradable mulch films industry. To cater to the diversified agricultural terrain, these organisations are focusing on product development and market expansion methods.

Segmentation Analysis

Insights by Crop

Fruits and vegetables segment accounted for the largest market share over the forecast period 2023 to 2032. By controlling soil temperature, retaining moisture, and suppressing weeds, biodegradable mulch films produce a favourable microclimate for fruits and vegetables. This improves crop output and quality, which drives the adoption of these films in the fruits and vegetables market. The usage of biodegradable mulch films aids in weed suppression, which is especially important for growing fruits and vegetables. Reduced weed competition allows crops to absorb more nutrients and reduces the demand for herbicides. As customers become more aware of the environmental impact of the items they buy, there is an increasing demand for sustainably grown fruits and vegetables. Farmers may match this customer demand by using biodegradable mulch films.

Insights by Raw Material

TPS segment accounted for the largest market share over the forecast period 2023 to 2032. The use of TPS derived from starch in biodegradable mulch films is consistent with the need to employ renewable resources in agriculture. TPS can be obtained from crops that are annually renewable, which contributes to the films' sustainability and eco-friendliness. TPS-based biodegradable mulch films, like standard plastic films, are intended to provide effective weed control, moisture retention, and temperature regulation. The performance and usefulness of TPS films are critical to their market acceptance. The affordability of TPS-based films is a major factor affecting their growth. TPS film costs are likely to fall as technology progresses and production scales up, removing one of the barriers to the adoption of biodegradable alternatives.

Recent Market Developments

• In August 2019, BASF unveiled Ecovio M 2351, a certified soil-biodegradable plastic for mulch films manufactured from its biodegradable co-polyester PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate) Ecoflex and other significant biodegradable polymers-based on renewable raw resources.

Competitive Landscape

Major players in the market

• BASF SE
• Kingfa.
• BioBag International AS
• RKW Group
• AB Rani Plast Oy.
• Novamont S.p.A.
• RPC bpi group
• Yifan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd
• AEP Industries Inc.
• Grupo Armando Alvarez
• Dow
• Zhejiang Hangzhou Xinfu Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd.
• Dubois Agrinovation
• Robert Marvel Plastic Mulch LLC.
• Groupe BARBIER
• Saurya Poly Pack

Market Segmentation

This study forecasts revenue at global, regional, and country levels from 2023 to 2032.

Biodegradable Mulch Films Market, Raw Material Analysis

• TPS
• PLA
• PHA
• AAC

Biodegradable Mulch Films Market, Crop Analysis

• Fruits & Vegetables
• Grains & Oilseed
• Flowers & Plants

Biodegradable Mulch Films Market, Regional Analysis

• North America

• US

• Canada

• Mexico

• Europe

• Germany

• Uk

• France

• Italy

• Spain

• Russia

• Rest of Europe

• Asia Pacific

• China

• Japan

• India

• South Korea

• Australia

• South America

• Brazil

• Argentina

• Colombia

• Middle East & Africa

• UAE

• Saudi Arabia

• South Africa