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The global market for plant-based propylene glycol is experiencing steady growth driven by increasing consumer awareness and regulatory pressures towards sustainable and environmentally friendly products. Plant-based propylene glycol, derived from renewable sources such as biomass or agricultural by-products, offers significant advantages over its petroleum-based counterpart, including lower carbon footprint and reduced environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. This has fueled demand across diverse industries including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and automotive.
The major factors driving the market are the increasing adoption of green chemicals and biotechnology in manufacturing processes, reduced dependence on fossil fuels, for efficiency, and improved scalability. Moreover, stringent regulations promoting sustainable practices and shifts towards naturally based medicines further spur market expansion. However, challenges such as cost competition, technical challenges related to large-scale production, and ensuring a consistent supply of raw materials remain major barriers to widespread adoption.
Plant-based propylene glycol represents a more sustainable alternative to its conventional, petroleum-derived counterparts, offering significant environmental and health benefits Propylene glycol is a pharmaceutical used in various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food processing, automotive applications, and traditionally from fossil fuels. The conversion to plant-based propylene glycol offers advantages from fertilizer manufacturability new ones such as biomass, agricultural residues, and bio-based synthesis methods.
This shift is in line with global sustainability goals by reducing the carbon footprint by reducing reliance on non-renewable sources. Plant-based propylene glycol has the same performance characteristics as its synthetic counterpart, including the ability to act as a wetting agent, provide a solvent stabilizer in various solvents, and meet regulatory standards and consumer demands for clean, non-environmentally friendly innovations in manufacturing.
The plant-based propylene glycol market is characterized by technological advancements in extraction methods, biotechnological innovations, and strategic collaboration in the supply chain. The objective of this development is to improve production efficiency, ensure reliable supplies, and expand the possibility of its use in a sustainable manner. As sustainability continues to be prioritized by industry and consumers alike, plant-derived propylene glycol is emerging as an important solution for progress toward a more eco-friendly future.
The Global Plant Propylene Glycol Market was valued at $XX billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $XX billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2030.
Advanced Extraction Technologies
Innovations in new extraction techniques for efficient and sustainable extraction of propylene glycol from plants. Technologies such as enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, and green chemistry processes are being developed to increase yields and reduce environmental impact
Biotechnological Advances
The use of biotechnology to produce microorganisms or enzymes capable of producing propylene glycol from a renewable food source. This method aims to improve the productivity, cost-effectiveness, and purity of the final product.
Process Optimization
Continuous improvements in processing techniques such as catalytic hydrogenation and purification processes to achieve higher purity rates for plant-based propylene glycol. Process improvement efforts focus on strengthening a reducing consumption, waste generation, and improving the overall efficiency of the process.
Bio-based alternative BioPG plant
ORLEN Południe successfully launched its BioPG plant, marking a significant entry into the global market for plant-based propylene glycol. This innovative facility transformed glycerol, a biodiesel production by-product, into renewable propylene glycol (BioPG). This bio-based alternative offered the same quality as fossil-based propylene glycol while reducing CO2 emissions by at least 60%. Supported by BASF’s established BioPG technology and Air Liquide Engineering & Construction expertise, the plant operated with an annual capacity of 30,000 metric tons, establishing ORLEN Południe as a pioneering producer in Poland. This initiative was aligned with ORLEN Group’s commitment to achieve CO2 neutrality by 2050, contributing significantly to sustainable industrial solutions globally.
LEVIA
PMI successfully launched LEVIA, a tobacco-free product aimed at significantly reducing harm compared to traditional cigarettes. Derived from cellulose-based materials, LEVIA comprises nicotine and plant-based propylene glycol, offering an aerosolized nicotine experience similar to e-cigarettes but without tobacco-derived ingredients. PMI anticipated producing up to 99% fewer harmful chemicals than conventional cigarettes with LEVIA, targeting smokers seeking a less harmful alternative. Before launch, PMI conducted a comprehensive human use evaluation to ensure product effectiveness and customer satisfaction, enhancing the user experience with ILUMA technology. This initiative positioned PMI at the forefront of offering innovative, plant-based alternatives in the global market.
Vegan and cruelty-free personal care products
Raw Sugar Living successfully expanded its product range into the Canadian market, following its impactful entry into the US market. The brand introduced its popular line of vegan and cruelty-free personal care products, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body butter, body lotion, deodorant, and hair styling products, at Shoppers Drug Mart locations nationwide. This expansion provided Canadians with access to Raw Sugar’s products, distinguished by their clean formulations featuring organic extracts and ingredients free of parabens, sulfates, and silicones. The collection featured popular scents such as raw coconut + mango, watermelon + fresh mint, and green tea + cucumber, catering to consumer preferences for natural and sustainable personal care options.
