: Westerhausen, J.; Brune, D.; Utz, H.

Abstract
The report gives an account on existing biodegradable materials which are suitable or already in application as packaging material. Additionally photodegradable and water soluble polymers for packaging are treated. The materials are classified according to their resources, production technology, convertibility to a packaging and packaging it self, characteristics as packaging material, degradability and degradation mechanisms as well as market situation. Aspects of environmental compatibility, legislativ questions and the assessment of technological consequences of the introduction of these materials for packaging are discussed. International activities on the government as well as private basis of this field are evaluated.