The article discusses the role of bioplastics in transitioning to a circular economy, where virgin polymers are made from renewable or recycled raw materials and products are reused or recycled at their end of life (EOL). Bioplastics, typically produced from bio-based polymers, offer several advantages over fossil-based plastics, including lower carbon footprints, improved material properties, and compatibility with existing recycling streams. However, they also face challenges such as negative agricultural impacts, competition with food production, unclear EOL management, and higher costs. The authors highlight the need for emerging chemical and biological methods to enable the 'upcycling' of plastic and bioplastic waste into higher-quality materials. They also emphasize the importance of revising and homogenizing existing standards and guidelines for (bio)plastic identification and life cycle assessments to guide consumers and converters in their purchasing choices. Clear regulation and financial incentives are essential to scale up bioplastic applications and achieve a truly sustainable circular economy.The article discusses the role of bioplastics in transitioning to a circular economy, where virgin polymers are made from renewable or recycled raw materials and products are reused or recycled at their end of life (EOL). Bioplastics, typically produced from bio-based polymers, offer several advantages over fossil-based plastics, including lower carbon footprints, improved material properties, and compatibility with existing recycling streams. However, they also face challenges such as negative agricultural impacts, competition with food production, unclear EOL management, and higher costs. The authors highlight the need for emerging chemical and biological methods to enable the 'upcycling' of plastic and bioplastic waste into higher-quality materials. They also emphasize the importance of revising and homogenizing existing standards and guidelines for (bio)plastic identification and life cycle assessments to guide consumers and converters in their purchasing choices. Clear regulation and financial incentives are essential to scale up bioplastic applications and achieve a truly sustainable circular economy.