Bio-based Polypropylene in Medical Devices Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2020-2030F

The Bio-based Polypropylene in Medical Devices Market was valued at USD 11.95 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 20.44 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 9.32%. The global market for bio-based polypropylene (PP) in medical devices is experiencing significant growth as part of the broader expansion of the bioplastics and healthcare sectors. Derived from renewable resources such as plant oils, sugarcane, and other biomass, bio-based polypropylene presents a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based polypropylene.

As sustainability continues to take center stage within the healthcare industry, bio-based PP is becoming an increasingly vital material for medical device manufacturing. The market's expansion is driven by a convergence of environmental considerations, regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and growing market demand for eco-conscious solutions. Companies that strategically invest in bio-based polypropylene are positioning themselves to meet the rising demand for environmentally friendly medical devices, gaining a competitive edge in an evolving market landscape.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Healthcare Expenditure and Medical Device Industry

The global increase in healthcare expenditure, particularly in emerging markets, is one of the primary factors propelling the growth of the medical device industry. According to a report from the World Health Organization (WHO), global healthcare expenditure rose to US$ 9.8 trillion in 2021, accounting for 10.3% of global GDP. This increase in spending was primarily driven by higher government outlays and increased out-of-pocket costs. In low-income nations, external health aid was a key factor in supplementing government spending, helping to address the financial strain caused by the pandemic and support national healthcare systems.

As countries allocate more funds to healthcare, the demand for advanced medical equipment and devices rises significantly. With more resources available for healthcare infrastructure and services, both government and private healthcare providers are investing in the latest medical technologies, including medical devices made from bio-based materials. InnoEnergy announced a USD1.04 million investment in LignEasy, a leader in bio-based materials innovation. Specializing in lignin separation technology, LignEasy is focused on reducing carbon emissions in the pulp industry by replacing fossil-based raw materials with sustainable forest-based feedstock.

This investment supports the company’s mission to drive environmental sustainability while advancing the use of bio-based solutions in industrial applications. This trend is particularly evident in regions like North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, where healthcare systems are rapidly modernizing. The surge in healthcare expenditure allows for greater research and development in the medical device industry, which further stimulates the need for high-quality, cost-effective, and sustainable materials. Bio-based polypropylene (bio-PP) has emerged as a compelling solution due to its versatility, biodegradability, and sustainable characteristics, all of which align with the healthcare sector’s increasing focus on sustainability. As healthcare expenditure increases, so too does the demand for eco-friendly, renewable materials, driving the adoption of bio-PP in a wide range of medical devices such as drug delivery systems, syringes, packaging, and diagnostic equipment.

The medical device industry is witnessing rapid growth globally due to an aging population, rising incidences of chronic diseases, increasing demand for advanced diagnostic equipment, and expanding healthcare access. The global demographic landscape is undergoing a significant shift, with the proportion of individuals aged 65 and above growing at a faster pace than those under that age. As a result, the share of the global population aged 65 and older is projected to increase from 10% in 2022 to 16% by 2050. By mid-century, the number of individuals aged 65 and above is expected to be double the number of children under 5, and nearly equal to the number of children under 12, highlighting a notable demographic transformation.

As the medical device market expands, manufacturers are exploring ways to reduce their environmental impact while ensuring high performance, safety, and regulatory compliance. Bio-based polypropylene, derived from renewable sources, meets these requirements and is increasingly used in the production of medical devices. The rapid growth of the medical device market is creating a substantial opportunity for bio-PP. Devices such as implants, prosthetics, medical packaging, and drug delivery systems require durable, lightweight, and chemically resistant materials, all of which bio-PP offers. Additionally, bio-PP’s ability to be molded into various shapes and sizes makes it ideal for the diverse applications found in the medical device industry.

The expanding market for medical devices directly translates to higher demand for bio-based polypropylene, further solidifying its role in the sector. Sustainability as a Rising healthcare expenditure is often accompanied by greater scrutiny on environmental impact and sustainability within the healthcare sector. With sustainability becoming an essential focus for businesses and governments worldwide, there is an increasing demand for eco-friendly materials in medical devices. Healthcare providers and manufacturers are under pressure to implement sustainable practices, reduce waste, and minimize their carbon footprint.

This shift is being driven not only by consumer and regulatory pressure but also by the desire to adopt more circular business models. Bio-based polypropylene aligns perfectly with these sustainability goals, as it is produced from renewable plant-based resources and offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional polypropylene, which is derived from petrochemicals. As medical device manufacturers seek to meet sustainability criteria, the demand for bio-PP continues to grow. This trend is particularly important as more medical device companies look to demonstrate corporate responsibility, comply with environmental regulations, and appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers.

Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases

The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases worldwide is a major driver of the growth in the global bio-based polypropylene (bio-PP) market for medical devices. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and respiratory disorders are becoming more prevalent, particularly due to factors like aging populations, lifestyle changes, and poor dietary habits. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the alarming rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), projecting that by 2050, chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses will account for 86% of the 90 million annual deaths globally.

This marks a significant 90% increase in the number of deaths from these diseases compared to 2019, underscoring the urgent need for targeted interventions and preventive healthcare strategies. Medical devices such as drug delivery systems, diagnostic equipment, catheters, and surgical implants are essential in managing these conditions. Bio-based polypropylene, with its versatility, biocompatibility, and sustainability, is increasingly being used in these devices to meet the rising demand driven by the growing chronic disease burden. As the demand for medical devices expands, the need for sustainable materials like bio-PP, which can be incorporated into a range of devices, becomes more critical.

Bio-based polypropylene plays a pivotal role in the development of medical devices used to treat and manage chronic diseases. For example, devices such as insulin pumps, glucose monitors, heart valves, and orthopedic implants are critical for patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. As the incidence of chronic diseases rises globally, the need for advanced, durable, and safe medical devices increases. Bio-PP, due to its mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and biocompatibility, is highly suitable for use in these devices.

In the case of diabetes, for instance, the increasing use of glucose monitoring systems, insulin delivery devices, and wearables, all of which require strong and reliable materials, drives the demand for bio-PP. Similarly, with the growing number of people suffering from musculoskeletal disorders, there is a rising demand for orthopedic implants and joint replacement devices. Bio-PP’s properties, including its lightweight nature and durability, make it an ideal material for such medical applications. The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, therefore, directly correlates to a higher demand for bio-based polypropylene in medical devices.

Chronic diseases often require long-term treatment and management, which leads to a sustained demand for medical devices over an extended period. Bio-based polypropylene is favored for devices that need to be durable, biocompatible, and safe for long-term use. For patients managing chronic conditions, devices such as infusion pumps, dialysis machines, or respiratory support systems often become an integral part of their daily lives. These devices need to be made from materials that are not only functional and efficient but also safe and non-toxic, which is where bio-PP shines. As the number of patients with chronic diseases increases, the need for durable, bio-based materials that can withstand long-term use in medical devices grows as well.

As the healthcare industry increasingly shifts toward sustainability, especially in response to rising environmental concerns and stricter regulations, there is a growing preference for bio-based materials in the production of medical devices. Bio-based polypropylene, made from renewable plant sources, aligns with this shift by offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional polypropylene, which is derived from petroleum-based resources.

With the rising demand for chronic disease management, healthcare providers and medical device manufacturers are under increasing pressure to source sustainable materials without compromising on device performance or safety. Bio-PP, with its ability to be recycled and its reduced carbon footprint compared to petroleum-based plastics, addresses both the demand for effective medical devices and the push toward sustainability. The growing focus on eco-conscious production and waste reduction further strengthens the position of bio-based polypropylene in the medical device market.

Growing Demand for Eco-Friendly Medical Devices

The increasing awareness of environmental issues and the growing demand for sustainable practices are driving a significant shift in the medical device industry. Medical device manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and consumers alike are recognizing the need for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional materials, particularly plastics. Bio-based polypropylene (bio-PP), derived from renewable resources such as plant-based feedstocks, provides an environmentally sustainable solution that meets both industry standards and environmental goals.

As manufacturers look to align their products with eco-conscious consumer preferences and sustainability regulations, the adoption of bio-based polypropylene in medical devices has gained considerable momentum. The global push for sustainability, reflected in stricter environmental regulations and growing consumer demand for greener products, directly contributes to the market’s expansion. Governments worldwide are implementing stringent environmental regulations that push industries to reduce their carbon footprints and reliance on petroleum-based materials.

In the European Union, the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations and the Circular Economy Action Plan are examples of initiatives that incentivize the use of sustainable materials in medical devices. Similarly, countries like the U.S. and Japan have introduced frameworks that promote eco-friendly medical device production. These regulations are fueling the demand for bio-based polypropylene, as it is both a renewable and recyclable material, helping medical device manufacturers comply with environmental standards and align their operations with green practices.

The healthcare sector is a significant contributor to environmental impact, accounting for 9% of the United States' total greenhouse gas emissions and generating 7,000 tons of waste daily. In the UK, medical equipment alone constitutes 10% of the National Health Service's (NHS) carbon footprint, a figure that surpasses the combined carbon emissions from patient, staff, and visitor travel and is twice that of NHS water and waste usage. As environmental concerns rise, there is increasing demand for eco-friendly medical devices that reduce the sector's carbon footprint, waste, and reliance on non-renewable materials. This trend reflects a broader shift toward sustainability in healthcare, driven by both regulatory pressures and growing consumer awareness of environmental impact.

As consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of products they use, there has been a noticeable shift toward eco-friendly options across all sectors, including healthcare. In the medical device market, healthcare professionals and patients alike are increasingly seeking products made from sustainable materials, driven by concerns about plastic pollution, waste reduction, and environmental impact. Bio-based polypropylene, with its lower carbon footprint and renewable sourcing, offers a compelling solution to these demands.

Manufacturers incorporating bio-PP into medical devices, such as diagnostic equipment, drug delivery systems, and surgical instruments, can position their products as eco-friendly alternatives, enhancing their appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. With the medical device market becoming more competitive, manufacturers are seeking ways to differentiate their products. Sustainability has emerged as a significant differentiating factor, allowing companies to stand out in the marketplace.

Bio-based polypropylene’s eco-friendly credentials offer manufacturers a way to meet both sustainability goals and consumer expectations, giving them a competitive edge. Brands that prioritize sustainability in their manufacturing processes can attract environmentally conscious healthcare providers, healthcare organizations, and end-users who increasingly seek out products with minimal environmental impact. The growing recognition of sustainability as a brand value is accelerating the adoption of bio-based polypropylene in medical devices, thereby expanding its market reach.

Key Market Challenges

High Cost of Bio-based Polypropylene

The inflated cost of bio-based polypropylene poses a significant obstacle to the market expansion of global bio-based polypropylene in the medical devices sector. While the demand for sustainable and bio-derived materials in medical applications is growing, the elevated production costs of bio-based polypropylene remain a challenge. The intricate processes involved in sourcing bio-based feedstocks, refining, and manufacturing bio-based polypropylene contribute to its comparatively higher cost compared to traditional polypropylene.

This cost disparity creates a barrier to widespread adoption in the medical devices market, where cost-effectiveness is paramount. Industry stakeholders must focus on innovative approaches, such as optimizing production processes, exploring cost-effective sourcing alternatives, and leveraging economies of scale, to make bio-based polypropylene more competitive. By addressing the challenge of high costs, the bio-based polypropylene market can better position itself for sustained growth in the global medical devices sector, aligning with the increasing emphasis on eco-friendly materials.

Technical Challenges of Using Bio-based Polypropylene

Technical challenges associated with the use of bio-based polypropylene present a significant obstacle to the market expansion of global bio-based polypropylene in the medical devices sector. While the demand for sustainable materials in medical applications is on the rise, bio-based polypropylene encounters hurdles related to its technical properties. Achieving the required level of mechanical strength, thermal stability, and biocompatibility for medical devices proves challenging, as bio-based polypropylene may not inherently possess the exact characteristics as its traditional counterpart.

Overcoming these technical challenges requires substantial investment in research and development to refine the material's composition and processing techniques. Industry stakeholders must collaborate to address these obstacles and ensure that bio-based polypropylene meets the stringent performance standards demanded by the medical field. By successfully navigating these technical challenges, the bio-based polypropylene market can position itself as a viable and sustainable alternative, fostering growth in the global medical devices sector.

Key Market Trends

Development of New Bio-based Polypropylene

The global Bio-based Polypropylene in the Medical Devices market is experiencing a transformative shift, with a significant trend driving growth being the development of new bio-based polypropylene materials. As the world increasingly focuses on sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, the medical devices industry is embracing the use of bio-based polypropylene to reduce its environmental impact. This innovative trend involves leveraging plant-derived feedstocks to produce polypropylene, a versatile polymer widely used in medical devices due to its excellent chemical resistance, durability, and low toxicity.

The development of bio-based polypropylene not only addresses concerns related to the use of fossil fuels but also aligns with the global push for greener and more sustainable materials in healthcare applications. Braskem has announced a strategic investment in the production of bio-based polypropylene in the United States, aimed at achieving a negative carbon footprint. The bio-based polypropylene will offer a drop-in solution, maintaining the same recyclability and technical properties as Braskem’s existing polypropylene portfolio. This move underscores Braskem’s commitment to sustainability while ensuring that the new material seamlessly integrates into current production processes without compromising performance.

For instance, companies are actively exploring bio-based polypropylene as a viable alternative for manufacturing medical devices such as syringes, surgical instruments, and packaging materials. The renewable and biodegradable nature of bio-based polypropylene contributes to a reduced carbon footprint and supports the circular economy within the medical industry. As regulatory bodies increasingly emphasize sustainability in healthcare practices, the demand for bio-based polypropylene in medical devices is expected to grow substantially.

Furthermore, the development of new bio-based polypropylene variants with enhanced properties, such as improved mechanical strength and sterilization compatibility, is driving innovation in the medical devices sector. This trend not only responds to market demands for sustainable materials but also positions bio-based polypropylene as a key player in shaping the future of eco-friendly solutions in the global medical devices market.

Growing Demand for Minimally Invasive Procedures

The global Bio-based Polypropylene in the Medical Devices market is witnessing significant growth, with a pivotal trend driving this expansion being the growing demand for minimally invasive procedures. As the healthcare industry increasingly shifts towards less invasive treatment approaches, bio-based polypropylene emerges as a key player in meeting the unique requirements of medical devices used in these procedures. The inherent properties of bio-based polypropylene, including its biocompatibility, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals, make it well-suited for the manufacturing of medical devices designed for minimally invasive surgeries.

For example, bio-based polypropylene is employed in the production of catheters, endoscopic devices, and surgical instruments used in laparoscopic procedures. The demand for these devices is propelled by factors such as quicker recovery times, reduced scarring, and lower post-operative complications associated with minimally invasive techniques. The adoption of bio-based polypropylene aligns with the industry's commitment to sustainability and addresses concerns related to the environmental impact of medical waste generated during these procedures.

Furthermore, the use of bio-based polypropylene in medical devices supports the development of lightweight and ergonomic tools, enhancing the precision and maneuverability required for minimally invasive surgeries. As regulatory bodies emphasize the importance of biocompatible and sustainable materials in healthcare, the demand for bio-based polypropylene in medical devices is expected to grow, with a focus on ensuring patient safety and environmental responsibility.

In conclusion, the growing demand for minimally invasive procedures is a key trend shaping the growth of the global Bio-based Polypropylene in Medical Devices market, as the unique properties of this material align with the evolving needs of the healthcare industry for innovative and sustainable solutions in the realm of medical devices.

Segmental Insights

Application Insights

Based on the application, the surgical mesh segment are projected to experience rapid growth during the forecast period due to its pivotal role in addressing diverse medical conditions and its increasing adoption in various surgical procedures. Surgical meshes are widely utilized in hernia repair, pelvic organ prolapses, and other soft tissue reconstruction surgeries. As the prevalence of hernias and pelvic organ prolapse continues to rise globally, the demand for surgical meshes is expected to surge.

The minimally invasive nature of surgeries involving surgical meshes contributes to their growing popularity, offering reduced recovery times and postoperative complications. Advancements in surgical techniques and an aging population, which is more prone to conditions requiring surgical intervention, further drive the demand for surgical meshes.

Moreover, ongoing research and development activities are leading to innovations in mesh materials and designs, enhancing their efficacy and safety. As healthcare providers increasingly recognize the benefits of surgical meshes in improving patient outcomes and reducing the likelihood of recurrence, the segment is positioned for accelerated growth. The versatility of surgical meshes in supporting weakened or damaged tissues and promoting optimal healing makes them an integral component of modern surgical interventions, fostering the projected rapid growth during the forecast period.

Regional Insights

Based on the Region, North America's dominance in the global bio-based polypropylene (PP) in medical devices market can be attributed to several key factors that position the region at the forefront of this industry. One significant driver is the well-established and technologically advanced healthcare infrastructure in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. These countries boast sophisticated medical facilities and a high level of adoption of advanced medical technologies, creating a substantial market for bio-based polypropylene in medical devices.

Stringent regulations and standards in North America regarding the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials in the healthcare sector contribute to the increased adoption of bio-based polypropylene. As awareness of the environmental impact of traditional plastics grows, healthcare providers and manufacturers in the region are increasingly inclined towards sustainable alternatives, such as bio-based polypropylene, for medical device production. Also, North America places a strong emphasis on research and development, fostering innovation in bio-based materials. The region's commitment to reducing carbon footprints and promoting eco-friendly solutions aligns with the use of bio-based polypropylene in medical devices. Government initiatives and incentives further encourage the incorporation of sustainable materials in healthcare applications.

The robust presence of key players in the bio-based polypropylene industry, as well as a well-established network of medical device manufacturers, contributes to North America's dominance. Proximity to raw material suppliers and a mature market for medical devices create a conducive environment for the growth of bio-based polypropylene applications in medical settings. The convergence of advanced healthcare infrastructure, stringent environmental regulations, a focus on sustainability, and a robust industry ecosystem positions North America as a dominant player in the global bio-based polypropylene in medical devices market. This trend is likely to persist as the region continues to prioritize sustainable practices in healthcare and innovation in materials science.

Key Market Players

• Saudi Basic Industries Corp
• LyondellBasell Industries NV
• Mitsui Chemicals Inc.
• Borealis AG
• Braskem SA
• TotalEnergies SE
• Danimer Scientific Inc
• FAF Kunststofftechnik GmbH & Co KG
• GreenMantra Recycling Technologies Ltd
• Avient Corporation

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Bio-based Polypropylene in Medical Devices Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Bio-based Polypropylene in Medical Devices Market, By Application:

• Heart Valve Structures
• Surgery Sutures
• Surgical Mesh
• Others

Bio-based Polypropylene in Medical Devices Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Kuwait
• Turkey
• Egypt

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Bio-based Polypropylene in Medical Devices Market.

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