Lactic acid can be obtained on the basis of renewable starch containing resources (e.g. corn, wheat or sugar beat) by fermentation, or by chemical synthesis of non-renewable resources. If composted properly it takes 3-4 weeks for complete degradation.

Its production releases fewer toxic substances than making petroleum plastic and uses less energy, releasing an estimated two-thirds less greenhouse gas.

As an insulation material, PLA can reduce the building energy consumption by maintain the indoor temperature steadily.  

Using PLA (as a substitute for traditional petroleum derived plastic products) can reduce the demand of petroleum.

If composted properly PLA takes 3-4 weeks for complete degradation. The first stage of degradation (two weeks) is a hydrolisis to water soluble oligomers and lactic acid. The latter, as a naturally occurring substance, is a rapid metabolisation into CO2, water and biomass by a variety of micro-organisms. But it will take far longer (at least 100 years) in a compost bin, or in a landfill packed so tightly that no light and little oxygen are available to assist in the process.

This material can be recycled. However, it will contaminate the traditional plastic recycling stream. Thus, a separated recycling system should be introduced.