Sustainable management of bioplastics: Lessons from a social innovation lab for Simon Fraser University and British Columbia

Bioplastic food packaging is gaining traction as an alternative to petroleum-based plastics and is being considered within university sustainability strategies. However, bioplastics present their own complex challenges and limitations to sustainability across their lifecycle. Using a social innovation lab approach, this research explored the challenges and opportunities of bioplastic packaging and foodservice ware from a systems perspective. This study draws upon the findings from key informant interviews and three workshops with stakeholders from across the bioplastics system, as well as a current practice scan of Canadian universities. The findings from this research informed recommendations for improving the use and management of bioplastics with respect to bioplastic feedstocks; standards and regulations; waste management; and sustainability and single-use item reduction more broadly. Furthermore, the findings were applied to the context of Simon Fraser University (SFU), and the study provides recommendations on bioplastic use and sustainability at SFU.