Bioplastics advances and their role in the management of plastic pollution

Abstract

Bioplastics are a type of plastic which are natural and renewable. These are made from raw materials such as sugarcane, corn starch, wood, wastepaper, fats, bacteria, algae. Bioplastics are eco-friendly as they can decompose back into carbon dioxide. Reduction of greenhouse gases through reduced carbon footprint occurs by the usage of renewable resources. In contrast to petrochemical plastics, bioplastics production is around 80% which is less than carbon dioxide. Bioplastics have been used as attractive materials for biomedical applications due to their physicochemical, biological, and degradation properties. Due to the widespread use of bioplastics, they are essential materials. Biowaste products should be designed correctly for the benefit of the environment and the utilization of these products. In composting and an anaerobic digestion infrastructure, a part of biorefineries, technology is beneficial. Enhanced production of plastics across the globe has been added more waste pollution. Recycling plastic waste is one solution to the increased plastic pollution, but it alone is not the only one. Decreased usage of fossil-based plastics is vital in the aspect of sustainability. This study aims to review the recent advances of bioplastics and their possible implications for controlling and managing plastic pollution.