3D Printing and Sustainability: Are Biodegradable Materials the Future?

3D printing has revolutionized manufacturing but has also raised concerns about sustainability and environmental impact. Common plastics used in 3D printing—such as PLA, PETG, and ABS—tend to degrade slowly or require specific conditions for recycling. With growing attention on eco-friendly production, the question arises: Can 3D printing materials become more sustainable? And is the future compostable?

1. What Are Biodegradable 3D Printing Materials?
Biodegradable materials are polymers that naturally break down through the action of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi, without requiring additional chemical treatment. This makes them ideal for sustainability-focused applications. Common biodegradable materials in 3D printing include PLA (Polylactic Acid), PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates), and bio-composite blends.

PLA – The Most Popular Biodegradable Filament
PLA is one of the most widely used filaments in 3D printing and is typically made from renewable sources such as cornstarch or sugarcane. It is technically biodegradable—but only under industrial composting conditions (high temperatures and humidity in controlled environments).

Pros:

• Lower environmental impact compared to petroleum-based plastics

• Easy to print and doesn't require a heated bed

• Available in a variety of colors and blends, including wood- or metal-infused PLA

Cons:

• Degrades very slowly in natural environments

• Lower mechanical strength than ABS or PETG

• Low heat resistance (~60°C), limiting functional applications

PHA – The Next Step in Biodegradable Filament
PHA is a newer biodegradable plastic naturally produced by microorganisms. Unlike PLA, PHA can decompose in both industrial and natural environments, making it a more sustainable alternative.

Pros:

• Fully biodegradable in nature, including marine environments

• Better mechanical performance than PLA

• Useful in composting-friendly applications

Cons:

• More expensive than PLA and harder to produce at scale

• Requires fine-tuned printer settings for optimal results

Bio-Composites – Natural Fibers in Plastic
Bio-composites combine natural fibers like wood, bamboo, hemp, or coffee grounds with PLA or PHA to reduce plastic content.

Pros:

• Reduced plastic use, lowering environmental impact

• Unique aesthetic and texture

• Potentially improved stiffness depending on fiber type

Cons:

• Can be more brittle than pure plastics

• May clog nozzles if not printed at the correct temperatures

2. How Are Biodegradable Materials Composted?
Just because a material is biodegradable doesn’t mean it will break down quickly or easily in nature. PLA needs industrial composting conditions—temperatures over 60°C and high humidity—to degrade efficiently. PHA is more naturally compostable, though the rate still depends on temperature, moisture, and microbial presence.

Home vs. Industrial Composting

• PLA: Requires industrial composting; won’t break down in a regular backyard compost bin

• PHA: Can break down at home but takes longer

• Bio-composites: Partial breakdown depending on fiber and plastic composition

3. Are Biodegradable Materials the Future of 3D Printing?
With rising sustainability demands and environmental regulations, biodegradable materials are likely to play a growing role in 3D printing. However, challenges remain:

• Need for truly compostable filaments that degrade under natural conditions

• Economic and technological barriers to scaling advanced bio-materials

• Industry and consumer willingness to shift from traditional plastics

4. How to Make Your 3D Printing More Sustainable
To reduce your environmental footprint in 3D printing:

• Use PLA or PHA instead of ABS or PETG where suitable

• Recycle waste prints and failed parts using a filament extruder

• Explore bio-composites that lower overall plastic content

• Avoid disposable prints and optimize models to minimize waste

• Ensure biodegradable materials are disposed of properly via composting services

5. Conclusion
Biodegradable 3D printing materials are a key step toward a greener future. PLA is already widely used, but materials like PHA and bio-composites offer even better environmental performance. As the technology evolves and sustainable practices become the norm, more effective and compostable options will become available.

Want help making your 3D printing setup more sustainable? Contact Maker Factory today