Displaying items by tag: biomaterials

 

 

 

 

Schalk Burger, Engineering News, 2 February 2021: Growth in use of bioplastics must be part of a holistic approach to sustainability

 

 

Biomaterials, and bioplastics specifically, offer a potential decarbonisation option for the petrochemicals value chain. South Africa relies heavily on coal as an input into chemicals production and bio-based bioplastics have room to substitute for traditional plastics. The market for bioplastics in South Africa is currently limited and market demand has yet to materialise substantially. While a number of efforts are present to develop the supply side of the market, policy interventions are necessary to stimulate demand for sustainable plastics. Policies that can stimulate the demand for bioplastic include bans or quotas on traditional plastics, levies or taxes on traditional plastics, ecolabels and standards, green public procurement, and raising social awareness. This dialogue aims to present and discuss recent work on stimulating demand for bioplastics in South Africa. 

Agenda

Welcome and introduction:

Presentation of the draft research on global trends, demand-side policy interventions and policy implications for South Africa, Muhammed Patel and Lerato Monaisa (TIPS)
 
Discussion, facilitated by Baba-Tamana Gqubule (TIPS)
 

About the Speakers

Baba-Tamana Gqubule is a Senior Economist at TIPS. She has a Masters in Development Studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London and a Bachelor of Economics Honours degree from Rhodes University. Baba has experience as a Policy Analyst at the Economic Development Department. She was involved in developing policies aimed at broadening participation in the economy with a specific focus on conducting research to inform the department’s strategy for increasing the participation of Women in the economy. ​