Workplaces across Australia are rethinking their consumption habits, especially when it comes to single-use plastics. Offices, schools, healthcare centres, and government departments are under growing pressure to reduce their environmental footprint, not just for compliance, but as part of a broader commitment to corporate social responsibility. One of the most impactful areas for change? Everyday supplies made from plastic.
Fortunately, the market for plastic alternatives has rapidly evolved. New materials are appearing that offer similar functionality and durability as traditional plastics. but without the environmental toll. These materials are compostable, recyclable, and often derived from renewable resources. Below, we explore five of the most promising plastic alternatives revolutionising workplace supplies: bagasse, bioplastics, PLA, bamboo, and recycled paperboard.
1. Bagasse: Sugarcane Waste
What is bagasse?
Bagasse is a fibrous byproduct of sugarcane processing. Once the juice is extracted from the cane, the remaining pulp, traditionally discarded or burned, is repurposed into a strong, biodegradable material that’s making waves in sustainable manufacturing.
Why is bagasse a game-changing plastic alternative?
Bagasse is naturally biodegradable and compostable, breaking down within 60–90 days in commercial composting conditions. Unlike plastic, it doesn’t leach harmful chemicals and doesn’t require fossil fuels for production. This makes it ideal for disposable products like cups, plates, trays, and food packaging, which are commonly used in staff kitchens, breakrooms, or corporate events.
Workplace applications:
- Coffee cup lids and trays
- Takeaway containers for office kitchens
- Catering supplies for meetings and events
- Compostable desk organisers and trays
Environmental impact
Bagasse reduces the need for virgin wood pulp or petroleum-based plastics and provides a high-value use for agricultural waste. Switching to bagasse in high-consumption areas (like catering) can significantly cut down on plastic waste in landfill.
2. Bioplastics: An Alternative to Petroleum Based Materials
What is bioplastic?
Bioplastics are made from renewable biomass sources like cornstarch, sugarcane, or potato starch. Unlike conventional plastic, which is petroleum-based, bioplastics can be designed to biodegrade under specific conditions.
Why is bioplastic a game-changing plastic alternative?
While not all bioplastics are created equal, many are compostable and designed to break down without releasing harmful toxins. Importantly, they mimic the look, feel, and performance of traditional plastics, making them a practical swap with minimal disruption to current operations.
Workplace applications:
- Packaging films for deliveries and logistics
- Compostable rubbish bags and liners
- Disposable gloves
- Mailing satchels and protective wrapping
Environmental impact
Using bioplastics helps cut down greenhouse gas emissions associated with plastic production and degradation. Some forms of bioplastic are even marine-degradable, meaning they won’t harm ocean ecosystems if improperly discarded.
3. PLA (Polylactic Acid): A Compostable Plastic Alternative
What is PLA?
PLA is a type of bioplastic made from fermented plant starch, often corn, cassava, or sugar beet. It’s one of the most widely used biodegradable plastics and is commonly used in foodservice items and 3D printing.
Why is PLA a game-changing plastic alternative?
PLA has excellent clarity, making it ideal for clear lids, clamshell containers, and plastic sleeves. It offers similar properties to PET (polyethylene terephthalate) but is fully compostable in industrial composting facilities.
Workplace applications:
- Compostable coffee cups and lids
- Transparent containers for kitchen use
- Cutlery and straws for events or office cafés
- Protective casing or packaging inserts
Environmental impact
PLA reduces reliance on oil and gas, with a 60% lower carbon footprint than traditional plastics. While it does require commercial composting to break down effectively, many Australian waste management facilities are starting to accommodate PLA products.
4. Bamboo: Durable and Renewable
What is bamboo?
Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable grass that has been used for centuries as a building material. Today, it’s processed into everything from textiles and utensils to desktop accessories and office furniture.
Why is bamboo a game-changing plastic alternative?
Bamboo grows up to 30 times faster than trees and doesn’t require pesticides or herbicides. It’s extremely strong yet lightweight, making it ideal for reusable products that replace plastic.
Workplace applications:
- Reusable coffee cups and water bottles
- Desktop accessories (pen holders, organisers, trays)
- Furniture and shelving
- Cutlery and tableware for breakrooms
Environmental impact
Bamboo products are naturally biodegradable and have a lower embodied energy than plastic or metal equivalents. Opting for bamboo can dramatically cut down on the consumption of plastic in long-life goods.
5. Recycled Paperboard: Compressed Rigid Recycled Paper
What is recycled paperboard?
Recycled paperboard is made from post-consumer recycled paper, compressed and reprocessed into a rigid, versatile material. It’s often used as a replacement for plastic in stationery, packaging, and storage.
Why is recycled paperboard a game-changing plastic alternative?
Recycled paperboard is not only biodegradable and recyclable, but it’s also surprisingly durable. Advances in coatings and lamination mean that many paperboard products can resist moisture and offer similar protection to plastic.
Workplace applications:
- File folders and document wallets
- Cardboard storage bins
- Packaging for office deliveries
- Presentation folders and ring binders
Environmental impact
By using post-consumer waste, paperboard diverts materials from landfill and reduces the demand for virgin pulp. It’s also easier to recycle than plastic, especially in office environments already set up for paper waste collection.
Plastic Alternatives: What Businesses Should Consider
Transitioning to plastic alternatives isn’t just about swapping products, it requires a cultural shift in how workplaces think about procurement and waste. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Compostable vs. Recyclable: Not all plastic alternatives are treated equally in waste streams. Businesses should ensure that they have the right infrastructure (e.g., commercial compost bins) to support disposal of compostable materials like PLA and bagasse.
- Cost vs. Value: While sustainable alternatives can have a higher upfront cost, they often deliver savings in waste disposal, compliance, and brand reputation.
- Supplier Transparency: Work with suppliers who can verify the sustainability credentials of their products. Look for certifications such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), AS 5810 (home compostable standard in Australia), and ISO 14001 (environmental management).
- Internal Education: Switching to sustainable supplies works best when staff are educated on how to use and dispose of them properly. Simple signage and training can go a long way.
As businesses across Australia strive to meet ambitious sustainability targets, everyday workplace supplies offer a prime opportunity for impactful change. Materials like bagasse, bioplastics, PLA, bamboo, and recycled paperboard are more than eco-friendly buzzwords, they’re practical, functional, and increasingly affordable.
By embracing these innovative alternatives, workplaces can reduce their plastic footprint, meet environmental compliance standards, and set an example for responsible corporate citizenship. It’s not just about replacing plastic, it’s about rethinking how we work, one supply at a time.
