Evaluating and managing the sustainability performance of investments in green and sustainable chemistry: Development and application of an approach to assess bio-based and biodegradable plastics

The state of the world urgently calls for a transition toward production and consumption partners that can support a carbon-neutral, circular and sustainable economy. Green and sustainable chemicals, especially, biodegradable and bio-based plastics, are key components of this transition. However, significant financial investments are required for the implementation of green and sustainable chemistry principles and the broader promotion of sustainability. In this regard, the financial sector needs sound approaches to assess the sustainability of investments. With this paper, we show an approach to assess the environmental performance of investments through key performance indicators calculated based on life cycle assessment. The approach is applied for the assessment of a fictitious investment aimed at financing bio-based and biodegradable plastic mulch films. The performance is assessed by comparing changes induced by the investment, compared with what would have happened without the investment (i.e., using fossil-based plastic mulch films). The application of the approach shows that the investment could be in general favourable from an environmental point of view, in particular for the promotion of a more circular and low-carbon economy. The approach could be easily adapted to reflect the specificities of a wide range of investments. However, it should be noted that other environmental, economic, and social aspects may need to be integrated to depict the sustainability performance of investments in a more comprehensive manner.