Advantage: Flexible Packaging

The use of bio-plastic films is one area that will garner a lot of attention during the next few years. In its Market Intelligence Guide for Packaging, Pira International (www.pira-international.com) listed the use of natural polymers in packaging as the number-one disruptive technology in terms of both acceptance and impact. Further, in a study titled, "The Future of Specialty Films," Pira reports that "biodegradable, water-soluble, and food contact versions of specialty films have been performing well despite the current economic climate, with their projected sales growth expected to be 13, 9.8, and 8.3 percent, respectively, in the forecast 2009-14 period."