Abstract: This invention relates to a composition which can be used to form a wood substitute. The composition comprises 30 to 70% (volume by volume) of a high molecular weight aliphatic polyester and comminuted cellulose-containing plant material, wherein the aliphatic polyester comprises 1,4-butanediol condensed with adipic acid and/or succinic acid. The invention also provides for producing wood substitute from the composition. The wood substitute has characteristics of natural wood. Articles made from the wood substitute are biodegradable and do not give off toxic fumes when combusted.

Abstract: Biodegradable molding material including a biodegradable aliphatic polyester resin and a cellulosic pulverulent body, wherein a component ratio of the biodegradable aliphatic polyester resin to the cellulosic pulverulent body is 20:80 to 80:20 by weight. The biodegradable aliphatic polyester resin and the cellulosic pulverulent body are kneaded, extruded and pelletized. The biodegradable moldings are manufactured from the pellets by means of an injection molding machine.