Biodegradable Microbeads Market Outlook (2023 to 2033)

The global biodegradable microbeads market size is estimated to surpass USD 4,561.1 million in 2023 and is further projected to thrive at a CAGR of 8.5% from 2023 to 2033, reaching around USD 10,312.5 million by 2033.

The rising usage of biodegradable microbeads in a wide range of applications, including composites, paints, cosmetics, and personal care, on account of their eco-friendly nature is driving the demand for biodegradable microbeads in the market.

Biodegradable microbeads are eco-friendly materials (microbeads) used in a wide range of applications. These microbeads are generally derived from cellulose, starch, and aliphatic polyesters. They have become ideal substitutes for plastic microbeads.

Rapid shift towards products with natural ingredients, along with the growing need for reducing plastic pollution levels worldwide, is expected to boost sales of biodegradable microbeads during the forecast period.

Similarly, expanding the clinical industry is playing a key role in fostering the growth of the global market, and the trend is likely to continue during the forecast period.

In the past few years, there has been a significant rise in the use of biodegradable components in the healthcare industry. Oral care administrations extensively use bioadhesive drugs made up of biodegradable microbeads. Emerging trends reveal a sharp rise in the use of biodegradable microbeads in the healthcare industry in the coming years.

These eco-friendly microbeads help enhance oral bioavailability by improving the quality of berberine hydrochloride used to treat gastric ulcers. Hence various medical laboratories and clinics are investing efforts in the development of products with the help of biodegradable microbeads in the pharmaceutical industry.

Attributes Details
Biodegradable Microbeads Market Share (2022) USD 4,215.4 million
Biodegradable Microbeads Market Share (2023) USD 4,561.1 million
Biodegradable Microbeads Market Share (2033) USD 10,312.5 million
Biodegradable Microbeads Market Share (2023 to 2033) 8.5%

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Biodegradable Microbeads Market Historical Analysis (2018 to 2022) Vs. Forecast Outlook (2023 to 2033)

The global demand for biodegradable microbeads is projected to thrive at a robust CAGR of 8.5% between 2023 and 2033, in comparison to the 7.6% CAGR registered from 2018 to 2022. The rising inclination towards using eco-friendly microbeads over non-biodegradable ones is a key factor spurring market growth in the global market.

In the last few years, companies have made significant progress in developing new environmentally sustainable products and have adapted new manufacturing methods that may help protect the environment. The use of biodegradable microbeads is one of the initiatives adopted by various manufacturers across the world.

In 2015, the 'Microbeads free water Act' was passed, focused on controlling microbeads' causes and adverse effects on aquatic life. Since then, various countries banned plastic fibers and replaced them with biodegradable microbeads for the production of multiple products.

Biodegradable microbeads are made of natural components and have various benefits. They are vitamin-rich, soluble, easy to blend with any substance, and very cost-effective to produce. Therefore, many manufacturers worldwide are setting up multiple labs to produce these eco-friendly microbeads.

What are the Key Trends Driving the Demand for Biodegradable Microbeads?

Rising Usage in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Pushing Demand in the Market

The biodegradable microbeads market is anticipated to rise significantly over the forecast period due to factors such as rising demand for personal care products such as toothpaste, shampoo, scrubs and hair gel, cosmetics, hygiene products & life science products, growing need for reducing environmental pollution, and improved knowledge of eco-friendly microbeads.

The manufacturers are investing efforts in product innovation that enhance the quality of the product, cater to the customers' needs, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

The biodegradable microbeads are liquefiable and can easily get mixed with cream or other substances to form a thickness and enrich the quality. As a result, they are being used in a wide range of personal care and cosmetic products.

Therefore, increasing spending on cosmetics and personal care products, along with the rise in the knowledge of such products, continues to propel the demand for biodegradable microbeads in the market.

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Sudip Saha

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Category-wise Insights

Which is the Most Popular Microbeads Type in the Market?

Demand to Remain High for Exfoliator Scrub in the Market

Based on microbead type, the exfoliator scrub segment held a high volume share of around 61.5% in 2022 and is likely to grow at a robust pace during the forecast period. This can be attributed to the rising preference of end users for exfoliator scrubs.

Exfoliator scrubs are made of plant-based fibers and are in granule form. As they are naturally made from plant extract, they do not cause any allergy or irritation.

They are easy to use, get mixed with gel and various other bases, and can remove all the impurities over the skin. Hence, such factors of exfoliator scrub are anticipated to boost the demand for biodegradable microbeads in the market.

To meet this growing demand, it is also anticipated that companies may be focusing more on manufacturing exfoliator scrubs in the forthcoming years.

Which is the Widely Used Material Type in Biodegradable Microbeads Market?

Cellulose and Starch Materials to Hold a Share in the Production of Biodegradable Microbeads

In terms of material type, cellulose, and starch held a significant 34.8%% of the total market share in 2022, and the trend is likely to continue during the forecast tenure.

The cellulose and starch materials are made up of fruits, vegetables, and other natural components such as sugar, turmeric, jojoba seeds, etc. They are safe, durable, flexible, and non-allergic products.

Apart from this, cellulose and starch products are easily soluble and are harmless to the human body and also to aquatic life. Thus, there may be a high demand for cellulose and starch-based biodegradable microbeads.

Which is the Most Lucrative Application for Biodegradable Microbeads?

Most of the Demand to Emerge from Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry

As per FMI, the cosmetics and personal care segment holds a leading share of more than 35% in the global market, and it is likely to grow at a relatively higher CAGR during the assessment period.

This can be attributed to the rapidly expanding cosmetics and personal care industry along with the rising adoption of biodegradable microbeads in cosmetic and personal care products.

The hygiene and personal care industry has shown a significant rise in various countries globally. Along with this, the cosmetic industry is making considerable progress in the market due to rising trends in fashion and beauty.

Thus, with the rise in demand for cosmetic and personal care products, there may be an increase in the use of biodegradable microbeads in the production of these products.

Similarly, the implementation of stringent government regulations to reduce the use of plastics in cosmetics and personal care products may support the growth of this segment during the forecast period.

Country-wise Insights

How is the Market Progressing in the United States?

Government Ban on Plastic Microbeads to Boost Sales of Biodegradable Microbeads in the United States

The United States is considered to be one of the lucrative markets for biodegradable microbeads market and is anticipated to generate high demand during the forecast period.

Owing to the rising consumer inclination towards using natural and eco-friendly products, implementation of stringent government regulations, and rapid growth of end-use industries such as cosmetics & personal care and paints & coatings.

In 2015, the United States passed a bill banning the production and sale of plastic microbead products. This acted as a catalyst for triggering the growth of biodegradable microbeads, and the trend is likely to continue during the forecast period.

The announcement of this news shifted the focus of United States manufacturers towards biodegradable microbeads. It resulted in the rapid growth of the biodegradable microbeads market in the country, and various companies started developing and using these eco-friendly microbeads.

How the Biodegradable Microbeads Market is Growing Across Germany?

Guidelines and Restriction from ECHA Encouraging Adoption of Ecofriendly Microbeads in Germany

Germany is the leading cosmetic market in Europe and accounts for one of the extensive market shares in the European microbeads market. The market in Germany is anticipated to grow at a rapid rate during the forecast period.

Germany is one of the world's fast-growing markets for the production of cosmetic products. In 2019, the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) proposed new guidelines and wide restrictions on the intentional use of microplastic in the production of cosmetic products to reduce environmental pollution.

Hence, European manufacturers have started using eco-friendly microbeads made of natural fibers as an alternative. This may continue to boost the sales of biodegradable microbeads in the country during the assessment period.

What are the Factors Driving Sales of Biodegradable Microbeads in India?

Increasing Demand for Natural-based Products to Boost Market in India

India is one of the emerging markets for biodegradable microbeads and is anticipated to grow at a healthy pace during the forecast period, owing to the rising demand for natural-based products and growing awareness about the harmful impact of nonbiodegradable microbeads on the environment.

Consumers in India are rapidly shifting their preference from synthetic products to natural-based products. Several customers in India prefer Ayurveda, naturally produced goods, and eco-friendly products. This encourages Indian manufacturers to use biodegradable microbeads.

Meanwhile, various manufacturers have stopped using plastic microbeads in the production of numerous products. Thus, it is anticipated that there may be a rise in demand and a surge in the production of biodegradable microbeads in India.

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Competitive Landscape

Leading players operating globally in the market are focusing on adopting strategies such as partnerships, collaborations, mergers, acquisitions, new product launches, investments in research and developments, and facility expansions to gain a competitive edge in the global market.

Recent Developments Observed by FMI:

  • In June 2023, BASF SE declared that two expansions at its facilities in Bangpakong, Thailand, and Cincinnati, Ohio, may increase its ability to produce alkyl polyglucosides (APG®s) on a worldwide scale. To improve its position and better serve clients from regional supply points while minimizing cross-regional volume movements, BASF, the market leader for APGs globally, is growing in two areas concurrently. In 2025, the additional facilities are anticipated to start operating.
  • In January 2022, Evonik Industries AG invested more than €400 million to build its new production plant for bio-based and fully biodegradable rhamnolipids. Evonik's decision to build the facility comes after a significant advancement in its research and development. Rhamnolipids are biosurfactants used as active components in detergents and shower gels. Globally, demand for environmentally friendly surfactants is rising quickly.
  • In 2018, BASF launched Cegesoft Peel, a spherically shaped wax bead. The Cegesoft peel helps to provide gentle and mild exfoliation. It is durable, rash free, and sustainable. The product is dust-free and made of natural and renewable resources.

Evonik, TerraVerdae, and BASF: Go-Getters Helping to Reinvent Microbeads and Avoid Plastic Disaster

Evonik is one of the top companies in the world for specialized chemicals. The business, which operates in more than 100 nations, had revenues of €15 billion and an operating profit of around €2.38 billion in 2021. The corporation targets three strategic emphasis areas: portfolio, innovation, and corporate culture, to raise the value of the business.

The company is dedicated to manufacturing sustainable products to meet end users' demands as well as to comply with government regulations. For instance, in 2022, Evonik inaugurated a brand-new Applied Technology Center (ATC) in Americana, Sao Paulo, Brazil, aimed at developing modern and innovative sustainable solutions for the company's customers and partners across Central and South America.

Another company that has become a leading producer and supplier of biodegradable microbeads is TerraVerdae. The company is committed to creating sustainable substitutes for petroleum-based plastics. For instance, TerraVerdae Bioworks Inc. announced the acquisition of PolyFerm Canada to lessen climatic effects and accumulation of plastic trash on land and in water.

Similarly, in June 2021, the company announced a milestone by launching field trials of its biodegradable agricultural mulch film at InnoTech Alberta’s Vegreville research site. Looking forward to successful results over the summer!

BASF is the biggest supplier of raw ingredients appropriate for natural and organic cosmetic goods. It has become an innovation hub for developing sustainable and eco-friendly materials. The company recently launched a brand-new wax-based product, providing consumers with a new biodegradable and all-natural microbead substitute.

With regard to the COSMOS and NATRUE standards, BASF provides its clients with all pertinent information and data. Over 50 of the products are tested in accordance with the NATRUE standards, and over 130 of the substances created by BASF for personal care applications have already been registered with COSMOS.

Key Players in the Global Market

  • BASF SE
  • Naturebeads
  • TerraVerdae
  • Evonik Industries AG
  • Mastumoto Yushi Seiyaku Company
  • Trelleborg AB
  • Sigmund Lindmer GmbH
  • Mo-Sci Corporation
  • Others

Scope of the Report

Attribute Details
Forecast Period 2023 to 2033
Historical Data Available for 2018 to 2022
Market Analysis USD million for Value
Key Regions Covered North America; Latin America; Europe; East Asia; South Asia; Oceania; The Middle East & Africa (MEA)
Key Countries Covered United States, Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, Nordic, Russia, BENELUX, Poland, France, Spain, Italy, Czech Republic, Hungary, Rest of EMEAI, Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Mexico, South Africa, Northern Africa, GCC Countries, China, Japan, South Korea, India, ASEAN, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, Others
Key Segments Covered Microbeads Type, Application Outlook, Material Type, Compounding, Region
Report Coverage Market Forecast, Company Share Analysis, Competition Intelligence, Trend Analysis, Market Dynamics and Challenges, and Strategic Growth Initiatives

Market Segmentation

By Microbeads Type:

  • Dispersible
  • Soft Beads
  • Exfoliator Scrub

By Application Outlook:

  • Composites
  • Paint and Coatings
  • Cosmetics and Personal Care
  • Others

By Material Type:

  • Cellulose
  • Aliphatic Polyesters
  • Starch

By Compounding:

  • Powder-based
  • Granule-based

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Europe
  • East Asia
  • South Asia
  • Oceania
  • The Middle East & Africa (MEA)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Biodegradable Microbeads Market Value in 2023?

The market is valued at USD 4.5 billion in 2023.

What is the Growth Forecast for the Biodegradable Microbeads Market?

The market is forecast to record a CAGR of 8.5% through 2033.

Who are the Top Industry Players?

BASF SE, Naturebeads, and TerraVerdae are the top industry players.

Which is the Key Segment by Microbeads Type?

The exfoliator scrub segment is likely to remain preferred through 2033.

What is the Projected Market Size by 2033?

The market is estimated to reach USD 10.3 billion by 2033.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Market Background
	4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Microbeads Type
		5.1. Dispersible
		5.2. Soft Beads
		5.3. Exfoliator Scrub
	6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Application Outlook
		6.1. Composites
		6.2. Paint and Coatings
		6.3. Cosmetics and Personal Care
		6.4. Others
	7. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Material Type
		7.1. Cellulose
		7.2. Aliphatic Polyesters
		7.3. Starch
	8. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Compounding
		8.1. Powder Based
		8.2. Granules Based
	9. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region
		9.1. North America
		9.2. Latin America
		9.3. Western Europe
		9.4. Eastern Europe
		9.5. South Asia and Pacific
		9.6. East Asia
		9.7. Middle East and Africa
	10. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	11. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	12. Western Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	13. Eastern Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	14. South Asia and Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	15. East Asia Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	16. Middle East and Africa Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	17. Key Countries Market Analysis
	18. Market Structure Analysis
	19. Competition Analysis
		19.1. BASF SE
		19.2. Naturebeads
		19.3. TerraVerdae
		19.4. Evonik Industries AG
		19.5. Matsumoto Yushi Seiyaku Company
		19.6. Trelleborg AB
		19.7. Sigmund Lindner GmbH
		19.8. Mo-Sci Corporation
		19.9. ZEON Chemicals
		19.10. Sinoplast New Materials Ltd
		19.11. Mitsubishi Engineering-Plastics Corporation
	20. Assumptions & Acronyms Used
	21. Research Methodology
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