THEGREENING OF ‘GREEN’ TECHNOLOGY: ADOPTION OF BIO-PLASTIC PLA
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Abstract: Growing concerns over the impact of rising commodity prices on the global food system has
led to a vigorous public debate over the use of plant materials as fuel alternatives. Despite this
controversy, several bio-based technologies are being promoted as sustainable materials. This paper
examines one such technology - Bio-plastics Polylactic Acid - that is being adopted at a rate that is higher
than convention plastics, although energy efficient this technology is still not cost effective. High
adoption is most likely driven by disincentives created by end-use packaging legislations and also shortterm
concerns for the environment. Two important log-term concerns that are highlighted are
divergence between technical and economic superiority and market failure. Thus the main drivers of
adoption in the long-run are expected to be declining production cost, environmental legislation
concerning waste disposal and composting, and consumer attitudes towards environmental impact.