Biodegradable Mulch Film Market to reach $7.4 Billion by 2030; Advancements in biodegradable materials, the need for enhanced soil heat growing adoption of eco-friendly agricultural practices, and rising government support for sustainable farming sol

The Biodegradable Mulch Film Market size is estimated to reach $7.4 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period 2024-2030, according to a recent report published by IndustryARC, titled, “Biodegradable Mulch Film Market – By Crop Type (Field Crops, Horticulture Crops, Plantation Crops, Floriculture and Others), By Biodegradable Plastic (Thermoplastic Starch, Controlled Degradable Masterbatches and Others), By Type (Starch, Starch Blended with PLA and Starch Blended with PHA), By Raw Material Type (Polylactic Acid, Polyhydroxyalkanoate and Others), By End-use Industry (Horticulture and Agriculture) and By Geography - Opportunity Analysis & Industry Forecast, 2024-2030.

The rising demand for high-quality and large quantities of crops is driving the market, as farmers seek more efficient and sustainable solutions to meet this need. Additionally, increasing government initiatives aimed at promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices and improving crop yields are further boosting the adoption of biodegradable mulch films during the forecast period.

In 2023, the Asia-Pacific region led the global Biodegradable Mulch Film market, accounting for 55% of the market share, driven by growing environmental concerns in major agricultural countries like China. Historically, China has been one of the largest consumers of plastic mulch films, a practice that has significantly boosted agricultural productivity, especially in large-scale cultivation of crops like rice, cotton, and vegetables. However, this extensive use of plastic mulch has resulted in considerable environmental challenges. For example, a January 2024 article by the European External Action Service reports that 40% of agricultural soil in China contains residual mulch film, with some areas having over 30 kilograms per hectare, and nearly 30.1% of areas exceeding 90 kilograms per hectare.In response, China has begun actively promoting the use of biodegradable mulch films as a more sustainable alternative. The government has introduced policies and formed partnerships to encourage the adoption of eco-friendly materials. For instance, in September 2024, China announced plans to expand cooperation with Africa, pledging US$51.4 billion in investments by 2027, including funding for agriculture. This aligns with China's broader environmental goals, such as achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. The Chinese agricultural sector is also investing in the development of new, cost-effective technologies to produce biodegradable mulch films that can help resolve soil contamination issues caused by traditional plastic films. This shift toward biodegradable alternatives is expected to accelerate the market's growth in China and across Asia.

The growing demand for high-quality and high-quantity crops, driven by both global population growth and shifting consumer preferences, is one of the key factors fueling the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, including the use of biodegradable mulch films. As agriculture seeks to improve yields while minimizing environmental impacts, the need for efficient farming solutions that enhance soil health, moisture retention, and weed control has never been greater. Biodegradable mulch films play a crucial role in these objectives, offering farmers a way to improve crop productivity without relying on environmentally harmful materials like traditional plastic films. For example, In April 2024, Nestlé Purina and Cargill announced a strategic partnership aimed at promoting regenerative agriculture practices within the corn and soy supply chains. This collaboration seeks to reduce the carbon footprint of Purina’s pet food products by enhancing soil health and adopting sustainable farming methods. By focusing on eco-friendly practices and high-quality crop production, the partnership reflects the growing demand for agricultural products that minimize environmental impact while meeting the need for higher-quality outputs.

Increasing government initiatives are playing a pivotal role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices worldwide, with a focus on reducing environmental impact and enhancing soil health. Governments are recognizing the need for a shift toward eco-friendly farming methods to address growing concerns over soil degradation, plastic pollution, and the environmental impact of traditional agriculture. These initiatives are not only aimed at encouraging the adoption of biodegradable and sustainable alternatives but also at supporting research and development in agricultural technologies that can further minimize ecological footprints.For example, in August 2024, a remote village in Central America celebrated the launch of a new initiative aimed at enhancing sustainable agricultural practices. This community-led project, funded through a partnership with an international development organization, is set to transform farming methods and improve livelihoods over the next few years. In another instance, the Indian government has been promoting the use of eco-friendly farming methods through its various schemes, such as the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) in 2024, which emphasizes organic farming, water conservation, and the use of biodegradable materials in farming practices. These types of initiatives are key drivers in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.

Key companies profiled in the Biodegradable Mulch Film Market are BASF SE, Kingfa Sci & Tech Co Ltd., Novamont S.Pa., BioBag International AS, Organix A.G, AEP Industries Inc., RKW SE, British Polythene Industries PLC, Armando Alvarez, AB Rani Plast OY and others.

Mulch Films Market - Mulch Films Market size is forecast to reach US$5.7 billion by 2026, after growing at a CAGR of 7.8% during 2021-2026. Due to evaporation, significant loss of soil moisture is observed that has raised the demand of mulch films among the agricultural areas. Also, to fulfill the need of food for growing population, demand for mulch films is increasing. 

Agricultural Films Market - Agricultural Films Market size is forecast to reach $15 billion by 2025, after growing at a CAGR of 6% during 2020-2025. The growing uses of modern farming technology to enhance the yield of crops, increasing populations coupled with food demand, and surging demand for biodegradable and soil degradable films augmented the growth of Agricultural Films Market. 

Biodegradable Plastic Market - The Biodegradable Plastic Market size is estimated to reach US$3.8 billion by 2027, after growing at a CAGR of 12.4% during the forecast period 2022-2027 owing to robust growth and flourishing applications across major industries such as packaging and others , combined with an increase in the number of supporting regulations, is expected to drive demand for bio-based products.