These plastics are made entirely or partially from renewable resources but are not biodegradable. Examples include bio-based polyethylene (Bio-PE) and bio-based polyethylene terephthalate (Bio-PET), which have identical chemical structures to their fossil-based counterparts and can be recycled in established systems.

These materials are derived from renewable resources such as corn starch, sugarcane, cellulose, and vegetable oils and can decompose under specific environmental conditions. They often require industrial composting facilities for proper breakdown. Examples include polylactic acid (PLA), used in packaging and disposable tableware, and starch-based blends commonly used in food packaging, agricultural films, and compostable bags.

These plastics are synthesized from petroleum-based resources but are designed to break down under specific composting conditions. While they do not reduce fossil fuel dependence, they ensure faster degradation compared to traditional plastics when exposed to industrial composting environments. Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate (PBAT) is one such composite, used in biodegradable films, agricultural mulch, and compostable packaging.