There is disclosed a biodegradable laminate suitable for use in shaped paper-based articles such as containers for liquid or solid, hot or cool, food products, comprising a paper-based substrate having first and second copolyester layers deposited onto at least one surface of the substrate, in the substantial absence of intervening polymer layers between the substrate surface and the copolyesters deposited on the substrate surface. A biodegradable shaped article formed from the laminate and a method for forming a biodegradable laminate are also disclosed.