Ocean-friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market 2025–2026 Analysis and Future Outlook

Ocean-friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market Size and Growth 2025 to 2034

The Growing environmental awareness across the globe is the key factor driving market growth. Also, the development of green chemistry processes coupled with the ongoing investments in research and development is fuelling market growth further.

Key Takeaways

• By region, Europe dominated the global ocean-friendly biodegradable chemicals market with the largest share in 2024. The dominance of the region can be attributed to the surging environmental awareness and strict regulations.
• By region, the Asia Pacific is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the region can be credited to the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions across different industries. 
• By product type, the biodegradable surfactants segment dominated the market in 2024. The growth of the segment can be attributed to the increasing awareness regarding the impact of traditional detergents.
• By product type, the biodegradable polymers segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the segment can be credited to the ongoing regulations regarding plastic waste and environmental concerns.
• By source, the plant-based segment held the largest market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be linked to the favourable government policies, raised consumer awareness regarding environmental issues. 
• By source, the microbial-based segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the projected period. The growth of the segment can be driven by innovations in microbial control technologies.
• By application, the household & industrial cleaners segment dominated the ocean-friendly biodegradable chemicals market in 2024. The dominance of the segment is owed to the increasing demand for ocean-friendly and biodegradable alternatives.  
• By application, the marine cleaning & maintenance segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the projected period. The growth of the segment is due to the surge in marine trade across the globe.
• By end-use industry, the consumer goods segment led the market in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be linked to the growing consumer awareness regarding plastic pollution.  
• By end-use industry, the marine & shipping segment is expected to grow the fastest CAGR during the project period. The growth of the segment is due to the surge in marine trade across the globe.
• By distribution channel, the direct (b2b) segment dominated the market in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be attributed to the growing adoption of sustainable alternatives by various organisations.
• By distribution channel, the online retail is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the segment can be credited to the convenience offered by online shopping.

Surge in Environmental Awareness Expanding Market Growth

The Ocean-friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market refers to the industry involved in the development, production, and commercialization of chemicals that are non-toxic, biodegradable, and pose minimal harm to marine ecosystems. These chemicals are designed to break down naturally in ocean environments without accumulating in the food chain or contributing to marine pollution. Applications span industries such as packaging, agriculture, textiles, oil & gas, cleaning products, and personal care, where environmental impact mitigation is a key focus. Technological innovations are making bio-based substitutes more competitive with conventional chemicals.

What are the Key Trends Influencing the Ocean-Friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market?

• The shift in consumer behaviour towards eco-friendly products is the latest trend driving the market growth. This transition in consumer behaviours impels market players in various industries such as agriculture, packaging, and consumer goods to utilise marine biodegradable components in their products.
• Innovations in biopolymers, such as starch-based biopolymers, along with the incorporation of nanotechnology, are enhancing the cost-effectiveness and overall performance of biodegradable plastics. Also, the utilisation of biodegradable films in agriculture is contributing to the market expansion further.
• Growing government support for eco-friendly practices, through various subsidies and regulations, is impacting positive market growth. This trend is encouraging industries to adopt more sustainable alternatives to comply with environmental standards.

How is the Government Supporting the Ocean-Friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market?

The government in various industries is supporting the market through different initiatives such as offering tax incentives and subsidies, funding research and development, and deploying regulations that encourage the use of sustainable alternatives. These policies promote the manufacturing and adoption of biodegradable materials.

Initiatives such as NGCM, emphasising supporting agrochemical alternatives, bio-based solvents, and other eco-friendly innovations, are expanding the market reach in the respective countries. The TBD (Technology Development Board) offers support and funding to manufacturers developing sustainable and green chemical solutions.

Market Opportunity   

Partnerships with Industry Leaders

Collaborations and partnerships among the green chemical manufacturers and major manufacturers in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, and food & beverages are creating new avenues for market expansion. These initiatives can boost product development and enhance market penetration. Furthermore, the increasing shift towards a circular economy creates substantial growth opportunities for the market. By emphasizing resource efficiency, recycling, and waste reduction, major players can capture the need for sustainable chemicals.

• In January 2025, hubergroup announced the launch of its DYNAMICA Ink Series. The latest fast-setting and colour-intensive series is sustainable, mineral oil-free, and cobalt-free and formulated for commercial printing. This new ink series is specifically designed to fulfil the evolving needs of modern commercial printing.(Source: www.fibre2fashion.com)

Market Challenges

Complex Manufacturing Processes

Manufacturing biodegradable plastics involves many processes, like sourcing, polymerization, and compounding, with crucial parameters such as pressure and temperature requiring precise control. Moreover, some consumers can be sceptical regarding the efficiency of sustainable products as compared to conventional chemical-based options, hindering market growth further.

Regional Insights

Europe dominated the ocean-friendly biodegradable chemicals market by holding 34% market share in 2024. The dominance of the region can be attributed to the surging environmental awareness and strict regulations. European nations have implemented policies to optimise the use of bio-based and biodegradable products, creating a healthy environment for market expansion. Furthermore, consumers in the region are increasingly focusing on sustainable products and are willing to pay more for them.

Ocean-friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market in the UK

In Europe, the UK dominated the market owing to the ongoing need for sustainable products, rising environmental awareness, along stringent regulations in the country. Also, the UK government's focus on minimizing carbon emissions and supporting sustainability is facilitating the adoption of green chemicals. 

Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the region can be credited to the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions across different industries and stringent regulations in the emerging economies such as China and India. In addition, there is an increasing trend towards using green chemistry principles and adopting sustainable production practices across different sectors.

• In June 2024, Arkema announced a breakthrough in new production processes that combine up to 40% recycled content from product packaging into its powder coating resins. This new technology will boost end markets.(Source: www.fibre2fashion.com)

Ocean-friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market in China

In the Asia Pacific, China dominated the market by holding the largest market share due to a rising awareness of the adverse effects of traditional surfactants and plastics on the marine environment is fuelling the demand for biodegradable options. The Chinese government is supporting the adoption of green chemicals via numerous polices and initiatives, propelling market growth soon.

What is the China's Top Export Commodities in 2024?

Segmental Insight 

Product Type Insight

Which Product Type Segment Dominated the Ocean-friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market In 2024?

The biodegradable surfactants segment dominated the market with 28% market share in 2024. The growth of the segment can be attributed to the increasing awareness regarding the impact of traditional detergents, which is driving the adoption of biodegradable surfactants in cleaning products and laundry detergents.

The biodegradable polymers (especially PHA) segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the segment can be credited to the ongoing regulations regarding plastic waste and environmental concerns. PHAs provide an eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastics and are biodegradable in marine as well as in soil environments, which makes them a prime focus for this market.

Source Insight

Why Plant-based Segment Dominated the Ocean-friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market in 2024?

The Plant-based segment held the 52% market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be linked to the favourable government policies, raised consumer awareness regarding environmental issues, coupled with the innovations in bio-based chemical technologies. Additionally, advancements in bio-based chemical production, such as enzymatic conversion and fermentation, are making these materials more efficient.

The microbial-based segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the segment can be driven by innovations in microbial control technologies and growing awareness regarding the environmental effects of conventional chemicals. The marine sector emphasizes developing bio-based and biodegradable chemicals for applications including cleaning agents and coatings.

Application Insight

How did Household & Industrial Cleaners Segment Held the Largest Market Share in 2024?

The household & industrial cleaners segment dominated the market with 24% market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment is owed to the increasing demand for ocean-friendly and biodegradable alternatives. Powder and wipes cleaners are gaining traction due to their ease of use and targeted cleaning abilities, further propelling the market growth.

The marine cleaning & maintenance segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the projected period. The growth of the segment is due to the surge in marine trade across the globe and shipping activities, which require more efficient and frequent maintenance and cleaning of vessels, fuelling the demand for sustainable and convenient cleaning solutions.

End-Use Industry Insight

Which End-use Industry Segment Dominated the Ocean-friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market in 2024?

The consumer goods segment dominated the market by holding 21% market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be linked to the growing consumer awareness regarding plastic pollution, the development of more cost-competitive biodegradable materials, and stringent environmental regulations, which will impact positive market expansion shortly.
The marine & shipping segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the study period. The growth of the segment can be driven by increasing sea trade, environmental regulations, and increasing emphasis on sustainability. These factors are boosting the demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional chemicals.

Distribution Channel Insight

Why Direct (B2B) Segment Dominated the Ocean-friendly Biodegradable Chemicals Market in 2024?

The direct (B2B) segment held the 61% market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be attributed to the growing adoption of sustainable alternatives by various organisations, along with the favourable government initiatives supporting bio-based chemicals. The shift in consumer behaviour is prompting businesses to adopt greener practices.

The online retail segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the segment can be credited to the convenience offered by online shopping. Other growth factors include wider product availability, expanding e-commerce market, and their capability to compare different products.

Recent Developments  

• In February 2025, Cosmo Specialty Chemicals, introduced its Oil and Grease Resistant (OGR) barrier coatings range. These innovative solutions provide an eco-friendly alternative to conventional polyethylene coatings, superior performance maintenance. (Source: thepackman.in)
• In June 2024, Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have designed a biodegradable foam that can change the packaging sector, while addressing critical environmental issues.(Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com) 

Top Companies List  

• BASF SE
• Dow Inc.
• Evonik Industries AG
• Croda International Plc
• Clariant AG
• DSM-Firmenich
• Solvay S.A.
• Stepan Company
• Huntsman Corporation
• Cargill, Incorporated
• Seppic (Air Liquide)
• AkzoNobel N.V.
• Novozymes A/S
• Ecover (part of SC Johnson)
• Corbion N.V.
• Danimer Scientific
• NatureWorks LLC
• Arkema Group
• Kao Corporation
• Nouryon

Segments Covered  

By Product Type 

• Biodegradable Surfactants
  
  • Alkyl Polyglucosides (APGs)
  • Methyl Ester Sulfonates (MES)
  • Sorbitan Esters
• Biodegradable Polymers
  
  • Polylactic Acid (PLA)
  • Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)
  • Starch-based Biopolymers
  • Cellulose-based Polymers
• Biodegradable Solvents
  
  • d-Limonene
  • Methyl Soyate
  • Ethyl Lactate
• Biodegradable Chelating Agents
  
  • GLDA (Glutamic Acid Diacetic Acid)
  • MGDA (Methylglycine Diacetic Acid)
• Biodegradable Lubricants
  
  • Vegetable Oil-based Lubricants
  • Synthetic Esters
• Biodegradable Cleaners & Detergents
  
  • Enzyme-based Detergents
  • Plant-derived Cleaners
• Others
  
  • Biodegradable Plasticizers
  • Biodegradable Corrosion Inhibitors

By Source 

• Plant-based
• Microbial based
• Animal-based
• Synthetic Biodegradable

By Application 

• Marine Cleaning & Maintenance
• Offshore Oil & Gas Operations
• Textile Processing
• Agrochemical
• Packaging
• Personal Care Products
• Household & Industrial Cleaners
• Industrial Lubricants
• Construction & Paints
• Wastewater Treatment

By End-use Industry 

• Marine & Shipping
• Oil & Gas (Offshore)
• Agriculture
• Food & Beverage
• Textile
• Cosmetics & Personal Care
• Consumer Goods
• Chemical Manufacturing
• Waste Management
• Construction

By Distribution Channel 

• Direct (B2B)
• Distributors/Wholesalers
• Online Retail
• Specialty Stores

By Region  

• North America  
  
  • U.S. 
  • Canada 
• Europe  
  
  • Germany 
  • UK 
  • France 
  • Italy 
  • Spain 
  • Sweden 
  • Denmark 
  • Norway 
• Asia Pacific  
  
  • China 
  • Japan 
  • India 
  • South Korea 
  • Thailand 
• Latin America  
  
  • Brazil 
  • Mexico 
  • Argentina 
• Middle East and Africa (MEA)  
  
  • South Africa 
  • UAE 
  • Saudi Arabia 
  • Kuwait