세계 바이오 가소제 시장 규모는 2024년 14억 9,000만 달러에 달했습니다. 향후 IMARC Group은 이 시장이 2033년까지 24억 3,000만 달러에 달할 것으로 예상하며, 2025년부터 2033년까지 5.30%의 CAGR을 기록할 것으로 예측하고 있습니다. 현재 북미가 시장을 독점하고 있으며, 2024년 시장 점유율은 35.0%를 기록했습니다. 인공 가소제의 건강과 환경에 미치는 영향에 대한 인식이 높아지면서 친환경적이고 무해한 대체품에 대한 수요가 증가하고 있습니다. 또한, 엄격한 환경 규제 시행과 프탈레이트계 가소제 사용 제한 증가가 시장 성장에 기여하고 있습니다. 또한, 바이오 기반 화학 기술의 발전은 바이오 가소제 시장의 점유율을 확대하고 있습니다.
바이오 가소제 시장은 환경 관련 법규의 강화와 기존 가소제를 대체할 수 있는 친환경적이고 무해한 대체품에 대한 수요 증가로 꾸준한 성장세를 보이고 있습니다. 프탈레이트 가소제의 건강 및 환경 영향에 대한 우려가 커지면서 업계는 식물성 기름, 전분, 구연산 등 재생 가능한 원료를 기반으로 한 바이오 기반 대체품으로 전환하고 있습니다. 이러한 변화는 특히 포장, 자동차, 의료기기, 소비재 등 컴플라이언스와 안전이 최우선시되는 산업에서 두드러지게 나타나며, 바이오 가소제 시장의 성장을 견인하고 있습니다. 또한, 바이오 가소제의 배합기술의 발전으로 고무, 접착제 등 다양한 용도에 적합하게 되어 성능의 폭이 넓어지고 있습니다. 또한, 순환 경제와 탄소발자국 감소에 대한 정부 정책이 시장 성장을 뒷받침하고 있습니다.
미국의 바이오 가소제 산업은 규제 압력이 증가하고 환경 친화적이고 무해한 물질에 대한 수요가 증가함에 따라 지속적인 성장을 경험하고 있습니다. 환경보호청(EPA)과 식품의약국(FDA)과 같은 규제 기관은 프탈레이트 및 기타 독성 가소제 사용에 대한 규제를 강화하고 있으며, 이에 따라 제조업체들은 바이오 기반 대체품으로 전환하는 경향이 있습니다. 이러한 규제 환경은 콩기름, 피마자유, 구연산 등 재생 가능한 원료를 이용한 바이오 가소제의 기술 혁신과 상용화를 촉진하고 있습니다. 헬스케어 분야에서는 바이오플라스틱이 의료용 튜브와 가방에 더 건강한 대안을 제공합니다. 이 외에도 건축 분야에서는 바이오 가소제가 바닥재, 벽재, 케이블에 적용되고 있습니다. 2024년, 굿 플라스틱 컴퍼니는 뉴욕에 사무실을 개설하고 북미 진출을 선언했습니다. 네덜란드에 본사를 둔 이 회사는 100% 재활용, 100% 재활용 가능한 플라스틱을 사용한 표면 패널 '폴리굿(Polygood)'을 생산하고 있습니다. 이 패널은 인테리어 디자인, 건축, 가구, 소매점 디스플레이에 색채를 부여합니다. 각 패턴은 일회용 수저, 냉장고, 가전제품, 제조 부품 등의 폐기물로 만들어집니다.
무해하고 지속가능한 소비자 제품에 대한 수요 증가
인공 가소제가 건강과 환경에 미치는 영향에 대한 인식이 높아지면서 친환경적이고 무해한 대체품에 대한 수요가 증가하고 있습니다. 이러한 경향은 안전이 최우선시되는 식품 포장, 장난감, 의료기기, 퍼스널케어 등의 최종 용도 시장에서 매우 강합니다. 고객들은 친환경, 생분해성, 프탈레이트 프리로 표기된 제품을 점점 더 선호하고 있으며, 제조업체는 식물성 기름, 구연산, 전분 등 재생 가능한 천연 자원을 원료로 한 바이오 가소제로 재제제화할 수밖에 없습니다. 재생 가능하고 안전할 뿐만 아니라, 이러한 대체품은 유연성, 내구성, 낮은 휘발성과 같은 동등한 성능 특성을 제공하는 경향이 있습니다. 이러한 태도의 변화는 각 브랜드가 지속가능한 원료를 사용함으로써 환경을 고려하고 이산화탄소 배출량을 줄이도록 촉구하고 있습니다. 세계인의 취향이 친환경적 가치에 동조함에 따라 바이오 가소제에 대한 수요가 증가하고 제조업체에 장기적인 비즈니스 기회를 창출하고 바이오 기반 재료 과학의 창의성에 박차를 가할 것으로 보입니다. Globe Scan이 제공한 데이터에 따르면, 미국인의 거의 절반(49%)이 지난 달 친환경 제품을 구매했다고 응답했으며, 이는 2024년 8월의 43%에서 증가한 수치입니다.
엄격한 환경 규제와 프탈레이트 규제
주요 바이오 가소제 시장 동향 중 하나는 엄격한 환경 규제 시행과 프탈레이트계 가소제 사용 제한 강화입니다. 유럽화학제품청(ECHA), 미국 환경보호청(EPA) 등 규제 당국은 내분비계 교란 작용과 발암 가능성 등 독성학적 프로파일을 근거로 상습적으로 사용되는 많은 프탈레이트에 대해 사용 금지 및 엄격한 규제를 가하고 있습니다. 미국 환경보호청은 2025년 6월 4일 발표한 위험평가안에서 디에틸헥실프탈레이트(DEHP)와 디부틸프탈레이트(DBP)를 포함한 두 가지 일반적인 프탈레이트의 10가지 이상의 용도가 흡입노출로 인해 근로자의 건강에 해를 끼칠 수 있다고 결론지었습니다. 이러한 한계로 인해 포장, 자동차, 헬스케어 분야에서는 보다 안전한 바이오 기반 대체 물질에 대한 수요가 크게 증가하고 있습니다. 바이오 가소제는 재생 가능, 재생 가능, 재생 가능, 일반적으로 낮은 독성, 생분해성, 작은 환경 발자국이라는 장점을 제공합니다. 이에 따라 생산 기업들은 성능 저하 없이 적합한 바이오 기반 가소제의 연구개발(R&D)에 대한 투자를 늘리고 있습니다.
바이오 기반 화학 및 소재 혁신의 획기적 발전
바이오 기반 화학 기술의 발전은 좋은 바이오 가소제 시장 전망을 제공하는 데 큰 역할을 합니다. 현재 진행 중인 연구개발 활동은 바이오 기반 가소제의 기능성, 경제성, 배합의 확장성을 높이는 것을 목표로 하고 있습니다. 이러한 개발로 바이오 가소제는 가소성, 열 안정성, 가공성 등 중요한 매개변수에서 기존 가소제의 품질을 달성하거나 능가할 수 있게 되었습니다. 예를 들어, 효소 촉매 작용 및 천연 오일의 화학적 개질을 통해 고무 및 PVC 폴리머와의 호환성이 향상되었습니다. 또한, 산업용 바이오테크놀러지와 그린 케미스트리에 대한 투자 확대로 석유화학 원료에 대한 의존도를 최소화할 수 있는 새로운 원료와 제조방법이 개발되고 있습니다. 또한, 드롭인 바이오 기반 솔루션의 개발로 제조업체는 기존 생산 시스템을 교체하지 않고도 신소재를 현재 시스템에 통합할 수 있습니다. 이러한 개발은 바이오 가소제의 잠재적 응용 범위를 넓힐 뿐만 아니라 경제적으로도 실현가능성을 높입니다. IMARC Group은 세계 PVC 안정제 시장이 2033년까지 69억 3,000만 달러에 달할 것으로 예측하고 있습니다.
The global bio-plasticizers market size was valued at USD 1.49 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 2.43 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.30% from 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a market share of 35.0% in 2024. The growing consciousness about the health and environmental effects of man-made plasticizers is driving the need for eco-friendly and non-toxic substitutes. Moreover, the enforcement of stringent environmental regulations and increasing limitations on phthalate-based plasticizer usage are contributing to the market growth. Additionally, advancements in bio-based chemistry technology are expanding the bio-plasticizers market share.
The bio-plasticizers market is witnessing steady growth, driven by mounting environmental legislation and growing demand for eco-friendly and non-toxic substitutes to traditional plasticizers. With mounting concerns regarding the health and environmental effects of phthalate-based plasticizers, industries are shifting towards bio-based alternatives based on renewable feedstocks like vegetable oils, starch, and citric acid. This change is especially prevalent in industries like packaging, automotive, medical devices, and consumer goods, where compliance and safety are a top priority, thereby impelling the bio-plasticizers market growth. Advances in formulation technologies in bio-plasticizers are also increasing their range of performance, hence making them fit for various applications such as rubber and adhesives. Moreover, government policies with respect to the circular economy and decreasing carbon footprint are supporting the growth of the market.
The United States bio-plasticizers industry is experiencing continued growth due to mounting regulatory pressure and high demand for green and non-toxic substances. Regulatory agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are tightening rules on the application of phthalates and other toxic plasticizers, which is leading manufacturers to switch to bio-based alternatives. This regulatory environment is promoting the innovation and commercialization of bio-plasticizers from renewable feedstocks such as soybean oil, castor oil, and citric acid. In healthcare, bio plasticizers provide healthier substitutes for medical tubing and bags. Besides this, in the case of construction, bio-plasticizers are applied in flooring, wall coverings, and cables. In 2024, the Good Plastic Company broadcasted its expansion into North America with the opening of an office in New York City. The Netherlands-based company manufactures Polygood, surface panels made from 100% recycled and 100% recyclable plastic. The panels bring color to interior design, architecture, furniture, and retail displays. Each pattern originates from distinct waste sources like single-use cutlery, refrigerators, household appliances, or manufacturing components.
Increasing Demand for Non-Toxic and Sustainable Consumer Products
Growing consciousness about the health and environmental effects of man-made plasticizers is driving the need for eco-friendly and non-toxic substitutes. The trend is very strong in end-use markets like food packing, toys, medical devices, and personal care, where safety is paramount. Customers increasingly prefer products that are described as eco-friendly, biodegradable, or phthalate-free, where manufacturers have no choice but to reformulate with bio-plasticizers from renewable natural sources like vegetable oils, citric acid, and starch. Aside from being renewable and safer, such substitutes tend to offer comparable performance properties like flexibility, durability, and low volatility. This change in attitude is encouraging brands to enhance their green credentials and shrink their carbon impact by using sustainable ingredients. As the world's tastes remain in sync with green values, the need for bio-plasticizers will grow, creating long-term opportunities for manufacturers and spurring creativity in bio-based material science. As per the data provided by Globe Scan, almost half of Americans (49%) indicate they bought an eco-friendly product in the previous month, increasing from 43 percent in August 2024.
Stringent Environmental Regulations and Phthalate Restrictions
One of the leading bio-plasticizers market trends is the enforcement of stringent environmental regulations and increasing limitations on phthalate-based plasticizer usage. Authorities like the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other regulatory authorities have placed bans or strict controls on many of the regularly used phthalates based on their toxicological profiles, with endocrine disruption and probable carcinogenicity. The US Environmental Protection Agency concludes in draft risk assessments published on June 4, 2025, that over a dozen applications of two prevalent phthalates, including diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), present health hazards to workers due to inhalation exposure. These limitations have generated tremendous demand for safer, bio-based substitutes in the packaging, automotive, and healthcare sectors. Bio-plasticizers provide the benefit of being renewable, renewable-based, and generally low in toxicity, biodegradable, and having a smaller environmental footprint. Because of this, production companies are investing more in research and development (R&D) of bio-based plasticizers that are compliant without losing performance.
Breakthroughs in Bio-Based Chemistry and Material Innovation
Advancements in bio-based chemistry technology are playing a major role in offering a favorable bio-plasticizers market outlook. Ongoing R&D activities aim to enhance the functionality, affordability, and scalability of formulations of bio-based plasticizers. These developments are allowing bio-plasticizers to achieve or surpass the quality of traditional plasticizers in such important parameters as plasticity, thermal stability, and processability. For instance, enzymatic catalysis and chemical modification of natural oils are improving compatibility with rubber and PVC polymers. In addition, growth in investment in industrial biotechnology and green chemistry is opening new feedstocks and production methods that minimize reliance on petrochemical sources. Development of drop-in bio-based solutions also enables manufacturers to incorporate new materials into current systems without having to replace existing production systems. These developments not only increase the scope for potential applications of bio-plasticizers but also render them economically more feasible. IMARC Group predicts that the global PVC stabilizers market is projected to attain USD 6.93 Billion by 2033.
Epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO) stands as the largest component in 2024, holding 36.6% of the market. It is a commonly applied bio-plasticizer and stabilizer that is prized for its eco-friendliness, functional adaptability, and performance benefits. ESBO comes from renewable farm sources, and therefore, it is a less impactful option than petroleum plasticizers. It is biodegradable, non-toxic, and aids in lessening the dependence on fossil fuels. Its manufacture follows the principles of the circular economy and increasing industry requirements for environmentally friendly materials. The environmentally friendly character of ESBO facilitates regulatory compliance and allows manufacturers to achieve environmental standards. Along with its stabilizing action, ESBO serves as a plasticizer that makes the polymer more flexible and workable. It shows good compatibility with PVC and enhances the mechanical properties of end products such as elasticity, elongation, and softness. This bifold activity minimizes the quantity of added additives, providing cost savings in manufacturing operations.
Packaging materials lead the market with 33.2% of market share in 2024. Bio-plasticizers are increasingly becoming necessary in the packaging sector because producers are looking for environment friendly replacements for the traditional, petroleum-derived additives. They are sourced from renewable materials like vegetable oils, citric acid, starch, and other biobased feedstocks. Bio-plasticizers are employed for their ability to improve flexibility, toughness, and processability of polymer-based packaging materials, especially in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other thermoplastics. Bio-plasticizers enhance the mechanical properties of films and sheets in flexible packaging, delivering elasticity and resilience for wrapping and sealing purposes. They also enhance transparency, tensile strength, and elongation properties needed in consumer products and food-grade packaging. As a result of their non-toxic and biodegradable nature, bio-plasticizers are particularly prized in food-contact uses where safety and regulatory compliance are key.
In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share of 35.0%. The sector is experiencing steady growth, driven by heightened environmental awareness, regulatory pressure, and the rising demand for sustainable materials across key industries. Regulatory bodies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Health Canada are enforcing stringent restrictions on traditional phthalate plasticizers due to their potential health and environmental risks. This has accelerated the shift toward bio-based alternatives, particularly in sectors like packaging, automotive, construction, and medical devices, where safety and regulatory compliance are critical. End-user preference for eco-friendly and non-toxic products is also playing a significant role in driving the market. Manufacturers are responding by incorporating bio-plasticizers derived from renewable resources, such as soybean oil, castor oil, and citric acid, into various polymer applications, especially in flexible PVC. Additionally, advancements in green chemistry and biotechnology are improving the performance and cost-effectiveness of bio-plasticizer formulations, making them increasingly competitive with synthetic counterparts.
United States Bio-plasticizers Market Analysis
The United States holds 85.60% share in North America. The market is primarily driven by the increasing need for sustainable materials, particularly in the automotive and construction sectors. An industry survey found that nearly 50% of Americans purchased an environmentally friendly product in the last month, showing a six-point increase since before the election. Also, there is strong consumer interest in sustainable products, with over one-third of consumers expressing a desire for more eco-friendly options in the market. In accordance with this, stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing the use of harmful chemicals are encouraging the adoption of bio-based alternatives. The rising consumer awareness regarding the health and environmental risks associated with phthalates is further propelling market growth. Similarly, favorable government incentives and support for green products and technologies are expanding market opportunities. The growing adoption of bioplastics in the packaging industry, driven by eco-conscious consumer preferences, is contributing significantly to the market's expansion. Additionally, continual advancements in bio-based feedstock availability and production technologies are improving product efficiency. The rise in circular economy practices, which encourages the use of renewable, bio-based raw materials, is also strengthening market demand. Moreover, the increasing demand for bio-plasticizers in medical devices is enhancing market versatility.
Europe Bio-plasticizers Market Analysis
The European market is experiencing growth due to the rising demand for environmentally friendly alternatives in the construction industry, particularly for eco-conscious building materials. As reported, in April 2025, compared with March 2025, seasonally accustomed production in construction augmented by 1.7% in the euro area and by 1.4% in the EU. In line with this, the rising adoption of non-toxic, phthalate-free alternatives in medical devices and consumer goods is driving market expansion. Similarly, the European Union's stringent regulations on hazardous chemicals are encouraging the shift toward bio-based solutions. The growing emphasis on circular economy principles, which promote the use of renewable and recyclable materials, is further supporting growth in the market. Furthermore, continual technological advancements in production processes are improving the efficiency and performance of bio-plasticizers, augmenting their sales. Besides this, the increasing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions, particularly in the food and beverage industries, is providing an impetus to the market.
Asia Pacific Bio-plasticizers Market Analysis
The market in the Asia Pacific is largely driven by rapid urbanization and industrialization across emerging economies, which are increasing the demand for eco-friendly materials in various sectors. In addition to this, numerous government initiatives promoting sustainability and renewable resources are further accelerating market growth. Similarly, rising consumer awareness of the environmental and health risks associated with conventional plasticizers is propelling the ongoing shift towards bio-based alternatives. The region's expanding automotive industry is also driving the need for sustainable plasticizers in interior components. NITI Aayog reported that India contributes 7.1% to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 49% to its manufacturing GDP. The country ranks 4th in global vehicle production, with over 28 million units manufactured in the 2023-24 period. As a result, the demand for bio-plasticizers in the automotive sector is anticipated to grow significantly. Moreover, the expansion of the food packaging industry, fueled by consumer demand for safer and greener options, is further expanding the market scope.
Latin America Bio-plasticizers Market Analysis
In Latin America, the market is growing due to increasing regulatory pressures to reduce the use of harmful chemicals in consumer products. A survey revealed that 85% of respondents in Brazil support regulations that mandate a reduction in global plastic production. Similarly, the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions, especially in the food and beverage industry, is driving market expansion. Furthermore, increasing investments in renewable energy are promoting the adoption of bio-based materials in construction, which is creating new market opportunities. Apart from this, the growing consumer preference for non-toxic materials in personal care products is also sustaining the market's growth trends.
Middle East and Africa Bio-plasticizers Market Analysis
The market in the Middle East and Africa is significantly influenced by the growing awareness of environmental sustainability, pushing industries to adopt eco-friendly alternatives. Furthermore, the region's increasing urbanization, leading to a higher demand for sustainable construction materials, is accelerating the use of these materials in building products. As such, Saudi Arabia leads the Arab world with 2,000 green building projects. The market is projected to reach USD 33 Billion by 2030, driven by sustainable practices, energy-efficient structures, and green materials, aligning with Vision 2030 goals. Additionally, rising government regulations aimed at reducing hazardous chemicals are driving the shift toward bio-based solutions. The expansion of the renewable energy sector, particularly in solar and wind technologies, is expanding the reach of bio-plasticizers in eco-friendly components.
Market players in the global bio-plasticizers market are actively engaging in strategic initiatives to strengthen their competitive position and meet the rising demand for sustainable solutions. Leading companies are investing in research to enhance the performance, compatibility, and cost-efficiency of bio-based formulations. Partnerships and mergers, and acquisitions (M&As) are also prominent, enabling firms to expand their technological capabilities and geographic reach. Several manufacturers are scaling up production capacities to address the growing needs of industries such as packaging, automotive, and healthcare. Additionally, market participants are focusing on regulatory compliance and product certification to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and businesses. As per bio-plasticizers market forecasts, these efforts are expected to reflect a broader industry shift toward innovation and sustainability in plasticizer manufacturing.