Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a bioplastic made from corn and was first discovered in the 1920s by Wallace Corothers, the inventor of nylon. Initially, it was not widely accepted, but by 2010, it had become the second most valuable bioplastic in the packaging market. PLA is a biobased, biodegradable bioplastic made from renewable raw materials and can be manufactured in regular plastic plants without significant additional investment. While it is more expensive than petrochemical plastics and has limited resistance to extreme heat, it offers many benefits, including reducing fossil fuel consumption and waste, boosting market opportunities for family farmers, and promoting economic activity in rural communities. As a result, corn-based plastics like PLA are an attractive option for consumers concerned about the environmental impact of plastics and the sustainability of plastic production. The advantages of bioplastics, such as reduced plastic waste and increased economic activity in rural areas, make them a compelling choice for those who want to reduce their environmental footprint.
