If The Graduate were remade today, it might be this phrase ringing in Dustin Hoffman's ears as the key to his future: bioplastics. Plastic does not necessarily have to be made from petroleum. Bioplastics are made from renewable, natural sources such as plant starch and sugar cane; once disposed of, they will safely and naturally biodegrade. Some bioplastic products can even be composted in ordinary compost piles.

The promise of bioplastic is significant; currently, after transportation and energy, no other application requires more crude oil than the production of conventional plastics. Globally, more than 200 billion pounds of plastic is created each year, most of which ends up in throwaway products and ultimately, in landfills. Bioplastic is available in a wide range of products today, from food packaging to car parts (scientists are even working on converting certain bioplastics into fuel). Its availability should expand and its price should come down as oil prices continue to rise, and eco-awareness grows.

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