NewBioWorld A Journal of Alumni Association of Biotechnology (2026) 8(1):115-125
REVIEW
ARTICLE
Bioplastics:
A Sustainable Innovation for a Greener Future
Sneha Agrawal1, Shifa Swaleha1,
Veenu Joshi2 and Shivendra Singh Dewhare1,*
1School
of Studies in Life Science, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, 492010,
Chhattisgarh, India
2Center
for Basic Sciences, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, 492010,
Chhattisgarh, India
Authors
Email- snehaagrawal03.ryp@gamil.com, shifaswaleha2808@gmail.com,
vinu.jsh@gmail.com, and ssdewhare@prsu.ac.in
*Corresponding Author Email- ssdewhare@prsu.ac.in
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ARTICLE INFORMATION
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ABSTRACT
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Article history:
Received
20 June 2026
Received in revised form
27 July 2026
Accepted
Keywords:
Bioplastics;
Plastic
pollution; Biopolymers; Biodegradation; Sustainable materials
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Plastic pollution has become a global
environmental crisis, threatening ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health.
The extensive use of petroleum-based plastics, particularly single-use
plastics, has resulted in the accumulation of persistent plastic waste in
terrestrial and aquatic environments, contributing significantly to
microplastic pollution and ecological degradation. Bioplastics have gained
considerable attention as sustainable alternatives because they are derived
wholly or partially from renewable resources and may exhibit biodegradable
properties depending on their composition. Feedstocks such as corn starch,
sugarcane, cellulose, algae, and microbial biomass offer environmentally
friendly alternatives to fossil-based raw materials while supporting the
transition toward a circular bioeconomy. This review provides a comprehensive
overview of bioplastics, including their classification, raw materials,
production techniques, industrial applications, environmental and economic
benefits, current limitations, and recent technological advancements,
highlighting their role in reducing plastic pollution and advancing
sustainable materials science. With growing global interest in eco-friendly
alternatives, bioplastics are expected to play a crucial role in reducing
plastic waste, promoting green manufacturing, and shaping sustainable
consumer behaviour. Continued research, technological innovation, supportive
government policies, and improvements in waste management infrastructure will
be essential to enhance the performance, affordability, and large-scale
adoption of bioplastics in the future.
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Graphical
Abstract
DOI: 10.52228/NBW-JAAB.2026-8-1-12
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Bioplastics: A Sustainable Alternative to Conventional
Plastics
1.
Introduction
Plastic
pollution refers to the accumulation and persistence of synthetic polymer
materials in the environment, where they disrupt ecosystems, harm wildlife, and
pose long-term risks to human health and planetary sustainability (Gurunathan
et al., 2025; Wechselberger et al., 2026). Plastics are synthetic polymeric
materials characterized by desirable properties such as flexibility, heat
sealability, high strength-to-weight ratio, and optical clarity. Common
petroleum-derived plastics include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP),
polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PUR), polyethylene
terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and nylons. These
polymers are widely used across numerous industrial and consumer applications
because of their versatility, lightweight nature, favourable thermal
properties, low production cost, and ease of processing into a variety of
products (Desidery & Lanotte, 2022).
Over
330 million tonnes of plastic are produced worldwide annually, with the
packaging sector accounting for the largest portion at 40%, followed by the
construction industry at 20% and automotive sector at 8%. A significant amount
of these plastics are derived from petroleum and are non-biodegradable,
contributing to environmental pollution and the buildup of lasting plastic
waste. Bioplastics are gaining more attention as a sustainable alternative.
Derived from renewable resources such as corn starch, sugarcane, vegetable
oils, wood, algae, or bacteria, bioplastics can be either bio-based,
biodegradable, or a mixture of both. They provide a more sustainable,
renewable, and carbon-neutral option in contrast to conventional
petroleum-based plastics (Gadhave et al., 2018; Ibrahim et al., 2021; Kumar et
al., 2014; Sidek et al., 2019). The pressing demand for sustainable
alternatives is driven by the environmental, health, and resource-related
challenges associated with conventional plastics. Bioplastics, which are
derived from renewable materials and frequently biodegradable, present an
optimistic prospect toward a circular economy. In contrast to plastics sourced
from fossil fuels that are typically used in disposable items like packaging,
bioplastics have the potential to lower greenhouse gas emissions, preserve
non-renewable resources, and minimize long-term environmental pollution
(Hopewell et al., 2009). Conventional plastics gradually fragment into
microplastics that contaminate terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and may
adversely affect wildlife and human health. Furthermore, the production of
conventional plastics consumes approximately 4–8% of the world's fossil fuel
resources every year. With appropriate recycling, composting, and waste
management infrastructure, many bioplastics can be effectively integrated into
existing waste management systems (Bakhtiari et al., 2025; Gurunathan et al.,
2025). However, the successful adoption of bioplastics requires a comprehensive
life-cycle approach encompassing sustainable feedstock production, efficient
manufacturing processes, appropriate waste management practices, and supportive
environmental policies (Sidek et al., 2019).
This
review provides an in-depth overview of bioplastics by discussing their
classification, raw materials, production technologies, industrial
applications, environmental and economic benefits, current challenges, and
future prospects. In contrast to other reviews that concentrate on particular
aspects of bioplastics, this one integrates recent advances throughout the
entire bioplastic value chain, providing readers with an updated understanding
of their potential in promoting sustainable material development and reducing
dependence on conventional petroleum-based plastics.
A
comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies, and
the literature was retrieved from PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect.
The search was performed for studies published between 2000 and 2026 using
combinations of keywords such as bioplastics, bio-based plastics, biodegradable
plastics, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polybutylene
adipate terephthalate (PBAT), bio-PET, bio-PE, feedstock, production
technologies, applications, circular economy, sustainability, and plastic
waste. Boolean operators (AND, OR) were used to refine the search.
2.
History and Evolution of Bioplastics
The history of bioplastics reflects the continuous
evolution of materials science in response to growing environmental concerns
and technological advancements. From the early use of naturally occurring
polymers to the development of advanced bioengineered plastics, bioplastics
have evolved as sustainable alternatives to conventional fossil fuel-based
plastics. This progress continues to indicate the balancing act of ecological
responsibility with industrial needs (Gilbert, 2017).
Bioplastics have seen quite a transformation from
early materials such as natural rubber and shellac, driven by technological
developments and concern over the environment. Milestone developments started
with Alexander Parkes' Parkesine in 1862, the first man-made plastic, and was
followed by Leo Baekeland's Bakelite in 1907, which was a turning point in the
materials employed in electrical and industrial uses (Ahmed et al., 2025;
Gilbert, 2017).
During the 1930s and 1940s, rapid advances in
polymer science, driven largely by industrial and wartime demands, accelerated
the development of lightweight and durable materials while also renewing
interest in natural polymers. In recent decades, research has increasingly
focused on the development of sustainable, bio-based polymers such as
polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and polyethylene furanoate
(PEF), particularly for food packaging applications. Although innovations like
utilizing agro-food waste and electrospinning help to enhance properties and
scalability, challenges related to cost and performance persist. Continuous
research is being conducted to improve the feasibility of bioplastics as
eco-friendly packaging alternatives (Rosenow et al., 2025; Stanley et al.,
2025).
Fig 1: - Bioplastics vs. Synthetic Plastics:
A Comparative Overview
3.
Classification of Bioplastics
Bioplastics can be broadly classified into three
major categories based on their origin and biodegradability: (i) bio-based and
biodegradable plastics, (ii) bio-based but non-biodegradable plastics, and
(iii) fossil-based but biodegradable plastics (Jayarathna et al., 2022).
3.1. Bio-based and
Biodegradable Bioplastics
These
bioplastics are derived from renewable biological resources and can degrade
under industrial composting or suitable natural environmental conditions.
Because they combine renewable feedstocks with biodegradability, they are often
regarded as the most environmentally sustainable class of bioplastics. Common
examples include polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and
starch-based bioplastics (Zhao et al., 2023).
3.1.1.
Polylactic Acid (PLA)
PLA is
a compostable and biodegradable aliphatic polyester typically derived from
α-hydroxy acids, such as polyglycolic acid or polymandelic acid. It is a
high-strength, high-modulus thermoplastic produced from renewable materials
such as corn starch or sugarcane and are commonly utilized in packaging and
healthcare applications because of its capacity to be easily shaped into
components, films, or fibers. Its stereochemical configuration can be altered
to produce either crystalline or amorphous polymers, both of which are
considered safe for food interactions. PLA undergoes degradation through the
simple hydrolysis of its ester bonds and does not require enzymes, leading to a
significantly shorter degradation period ranging from 6 months to 2 years in
comparison to traditional plastics which take 500-1000 years (Garlotta, 2001).
3.1.2.
Polyhydroxyalkanoates
(PHAs)
PHAs
represent a highly promising category of renewable and biodegradable
bioplastics that have the potential to serve as substitutes for traditional
plastics such as PP and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) because of their
comparable properties. In contrast to PLA and PBS, which undergo chemical
polymerization, PHAs are synthesized naturally by bacteria as a way to store
energy, typically when nutrients are limited and carbon sources are abundant,
although some bacteria can produce them during their growth phase. There are
over 150 PHA different structures, which can be generally grouped based on the
number of carbon atoms in their monomers: short-chain-length (scl-PHAs,
consisting of 3-5 carbon atoms) and medium-chain-length (mcl-PHAs, containing
6-14 carbon atoms). PHB, a well-known scl-PHA, is characterized by its rigidity
and brittleness, but when 3-hydroxyvalerate (HV) units are integrated to create
PHBV, it becomes stronger, more flexible, and easier to work with (Kourmentza
et al., 2017).
3.1.3.
Starch-based Bioplastics
Starch
is a commonly used biopolymer in the production of bioplastics because it is
plentiful, biodegradable, non-toxic, cost-effective, and possesses good oxygen
barrier characteristics. Although it was first combined with synthetic
polymers, it is now utilized in advanced variations such as thermoplastic
starch (TPS) and as a composite filler. Even though its native form has
limitations like low mechanical strength and sensitivity to moisture, ongoing
research aims to enhance its properties. In 2021, starch blends represented
16.4% of the total global bioplastic output, with Novamont's Mater-Bi being a
notable commercial example. Starch plays a vital role in the development of
bioplastics, spurred by growing environmental regulations and consumer interest
in sustainability (Jayarathna et al., 2022).
3.2. Bio-based but Non-Biodegradable
Bioplastics
These
bioplastics are produced from renewable biomass resources such as sugarcane and
corn; however, their chemical structures are identical to those of their petroleum-based
counterparts, making them non-biodegradable. Although they do not readily
degrade in the environment, they reduce dependence on fossil resources and
contribute to lowering the carbon footprint associated with conventional
plastic production (Zhao et al., 2023). Common examples include
bio-polyethylene (Bio-PE), bio-polypropylene (Bio-PP), and bio-polyethylene
terephthalate (Bio-PET).
3.2.1.
Bio- Polyethylene
PE is
the most widely produced polymer globally, valued for its versatility and
effectiveness. To address concerns involving environmental sustainability and
the exhaustion of fossil fuels, bio-PE has been developed from renewable
materials. It possesses the same structure and recyclability as traditional PE,
but it is not biodegradable (Burelo et al., 2023). Bio-PE is produced by
fermenting biomass to create ethanol, which is then converted into ethylene. It
finds applications in areas such as packaging, automotive, and consumer
products, with companies like Braskem and Dow-Crystalsev spearheading its
commercialization. Although it is currently more expensive than fossil-based
PE, advancements in processing techniques and feedstock efficiency are
enhancing its feasibility. Bio-PE is also being investigated for use in
composites like wood-plastic composites (WPCs) and natural fiber composites
(NFCs) to improve sustainability and mechanical characteristics, positioning it
as a noteworthy alternative to conventional plastics (Siracusa & Blanco,
2020).
3.2.2.
Bio- Polypropylene
PP is
the second most prevalent polyolefin after polyethylene and is commonly
utilized in sectors such as packaging, textiles, and automotive. Although
bio-based polyethylene has achieved commercial viability, advancements in
bio-PP have been minimal, with large-scale production yet to be realized.
Braskem has engaged in pilot-scale production, but specific details have not
been revealed. Potentially effective methods for producing bio-PP involve
converting biomass-derived methanol into propylene through MTP and MTO
processes, as well as fermenting sugars into intermediates such as
1,2-propanediol or bio-isobutanol, which can then be dehydrated to yield
propylene. Despite existing challenges, bio-PP has significant promise as a
sustainable alternative, contingent upon the development of cost-efficient,
scalable technologies (Phung et al., 2021; Siracusa & Blanco, 2020).
3.2.3.
Bio- Polyethylene Terephthalate
Bio-PET
is a prominent bio-based polyester, attracting considerable interest for its
applications in fibers and packaging. It resembles traditional PET in both
structure and performance, but it is partially or fully sourced from renewable
materials. Bio-ethylene glycol (Bio-EG) can be created through processes such
as bio-ethylene oxidation or fermentation. Meanwhile, bio-terephthalic acid
(Bio-PTA) can be produced from biomass-based substances like isobutanol,
muconic acid, or furfural. Although the large-scale production of Bio-PET is
still developing, products like Coca-Cola’s “PlantBottle” are already utilizing
bio-EG. While Bio-PET does not decompose naturally, innovations in enzymatic
recycling and chemical depolymerization provide sustainable options for
disposal. Standards like ASTM D6866 and EN 16640 facilitate the precise
assessment of bio-based content, enhancing transparency and building consumer
trust (Collias et al., 2014; Siracusa & Blanco, 2020).
3.3. Fossil-based but
Biodegradable Bioplastics
This
category comprises bioplastics that are derived from fossil-based resources but
are specifically designed to undergo biodegradation under suitable
environmental conditions. Although these materials are not produced from
renewable feedstocks, they can be decomposed by microorganisms, thereby
reducing their persistence in the environment compared with conventional
petroleum-based plastics. A representative example of this category is
Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate (PBAT).
3.3.1.
Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate
(PBAT)
PBAT
is a biodegradable copolyester that blends aliphatic and aromatic components,
recognized for its flexibility, biodegradability, and durability. Made from
1,4-butanediol, adipic acid, and terephthalic acid, PBAT brings together the
biodegradability of its aliphatic segments with the robustness of its aromatic
parts. In contrast to traditional plastics like PE and PP, PBAT is compostable
and complies with regulations such as EN 13432 and ASTM D6400. With mechanical
properties similar to those of LDPE, it is ideal for use in packaging applications
including films, bags, and compostable containers. Its excellent processability
and increasing demand position it as a top choice for sustainable packaging
(Jian et al., 2020).
4.
Raw Materials and Production
of Pioplastics
4.1. Raw Materials for
Bioplastic Production
Bioplastics
are primarily produced from renewable biological resources, including
plant-derived materials and organic waste, which serve as carbon sources for
polymer production. Based on their origin, these feedstocks are generally
classified into first-generation and second-generation biomass.
First-generation biomass comes from edible crops such as corn, sugarcane, and
cassava. While these materials are widely utilized due to their high
carbohydrate levels and processing simplicity, their use raises issues
concerning competition with food supplies and the use of agricultural land.
Still, bioplastic production currently accounts for only a minor fraction of
global agricultural resources. Second-generation biomass, on the other hand, is
obtained from non-edible agricultural byproducts, lignocellulosic materials,
and food waste, which makes it a more sustainable and ecologically friendly
option. More than one billion tonnes of food waste are generated annually,
providing an abundant and renewable feedstock for bioplastic production.
However, the complex structure of lignocellulosic biomass requires pretreatment
before it can be efficiently converted into fermentable sugars for polymer
synthesis (Rosenboom et al., 2022).
Agricultural
residues, including wheat straw and other lignocellulosic materials, are
increasingly recognized as promising feedstocks because they support waste
valorization and reduce dependence on food-based resources (Vaswani et al.,
2025). Similarly, seaweed has emerged as an attractive renewable resource
because of its rapid growth, abundance, and suitability for producing
biodegradable plastic films without competing for arable land or freshwater
resources (Rosenboom et al., 2022).
4.2. Production
Technologies
The
production of bioplastics involves a wide range of biological, chemical, and
biotechnological processes, depending on the type of polymer and the feedstock
used. Various microorganisms, enzymes, catalysts, and polymerization techniques
are employed to synthesize different classes of bioplastics. The selection of
an appropriate production technology influences the material's physicochemical
properties, production cost, biodegradability, and industrial applicability
(Huang et al., 2025). Table 1 summarizes the major industrial production
technologies, feedstocks, catalysts, microorganisms, key characteristics, and
biodegradability of commonly used bioplastics.
Table 1. Industrial
Production Technologies of Major Bioplastics
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Biocatalyst/
Catalyst
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Production
Technique
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Feedstock
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Key
Features
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Classification
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References
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PLA
(Polylactic acid)
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Lactobacillus spp. (L. amylophilus, L.
bavaricus, L. delbrueckii & L. acidophilus); stannous octoate,
zinc, aluminium alkoxides, lanthanum-yttrium complexes
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Ring-opening
polymerization of lactide; direct condensation polymerization; azeotropic
dehydration
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Corn starch, sugarcane, wheat, and other
carbohydrate-rich biomass
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Used in packaging,
3D printing and medical devices;
suitable for melt extrusion, injection
moulding
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Bio-based; biodegradable
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(Garlotta, 2001)
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PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates)
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Cupriavidus necator, Pseudomonas putida,
Halomonas TD01, Alcaligenes
latus, Bacillus megaterium; PHA synthase, β-ketothiolase, acetoacetyl-CoA
reductase
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Pure culture fermentation;
mixed microbial consortia; synthetic biology; hybrid chemo-biotechnological
routes; open fermentation using halophiles
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Glucose, starch,
agro-industrial waste, food waste
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Low-cost production using waste substrates;
potential integration with bioremediation
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Bio-based; biodegradable
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(Kourmentza et al., 2017)
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Starch-based Bioplastics
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Not applicable
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Casting; extrusion
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Corn, potato, cassava
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Renewable material; mechanical strength and
water resistance require improvement using reinforcing agents
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Bio-based; biodegradable
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(Jayarathna et al., 2022)
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Bio-PE
(Bio-based Polyethylene)
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Ziegler-Natta,
metal oxide, and metallocene catalysts
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PE production through free radical or
addition polymerization and bio-PE production from natural materials via fermentation,
distillation, and polymerization
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Sugarcane ethanol, agro-industrial residues
(garlic skin, banana flour, rice husk, bamboo)
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Advancements in bio-PE blends and
composites, microbial and enzymatic biodegradation, 3R strategies (Reduce,
Reuse, Recycle) for PE management
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Bio-based;
non-biodegradable
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(Burelo
et al., 2023)
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Bio-PP
(Bio-based Polypropylene)
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Ziegler-Natta,
metal oxide, and metallocene catalysts
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Extrusion, injection molding, melt
blending, and in situ polymerization. The production of propylene from
bioethanol, gasification, and thermochemical methods
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Sugarcane-based bioethanol, non-edible
crop, vegetable oils, lignocellulosic biomass
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Similar properties
to conventional PP;
bio-PP is not biodegradable but supports
circular economy through recyclability.
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Bio-based;
non-biodegradable
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(Wang
et al., 2023)
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Bio-PET
(Bio-based Polyethylene Terephthalate)
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Antimony (III) oxide;
titanium-, germanium-, aluminium-, magnesium-, and phosphorus-based catalysts
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Bio-EG and Bio-TPA synthesis, followed by
melt polycondensation and solid-state polymerization (SSP).
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Sugarcane, sugar beet, wheat, maize, and
other lignocellulosic biomass.
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Chemically identical to conventional PET;
suitable for packaging, fibres, and films; recyclable
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Bio-based;
non-biodegradable
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(Sousa
et al., 2021; Thiele, 2001)
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PBAT
(Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate)
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Zinc, tin, and
titanium-based organometallic catalysts
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Polycondensation of butanediol (BDO),
adipic acid (AA), and terephthalic acid (PTA)
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Mainly petro-derived- BDO, AA, PTA
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Flexible biodegradable polyester;
mechanical properties comparable to LDPE
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Fossil-based; biodegradable
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(Jian et al., 2020)
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5.
Applications of Bioplastics
Bioplastics are increasingly being utilized across
various sectors such as packaging, food, consumer electronics, cosmetics,
automobile, agriculture, horticulture, toys and textiles. Bioplastics provide
environmentally friendly options compared to plastics made from petroleum, with
packaging accounting for over 47% of their global usage in 2020. PLA, PHA,
starch blends, cellulose, and chitosan play crucial roles in promoting
sustainability. PLA is widely used for rigid packaging applications because of
its excellent processability, whereas PHA is preferred for cosmetic and
biomedical applications owing to its biocompatibility and rapid
biodegradability. Furthermore, nanocellulose enhances barrier properties and
supports the development of smart packaging, while chitosan imparts
antimicrobial activity, thereby extending the shelf life of packaged products
(Ibrahim et al., 2021).
PBAT is widely utilized in the manufacture of
commercially available compostable packaging materials. Companies such as BASF,
Novamont, BIOTECH, and KINGFA have significantly contributed to the
commercialization of PBAT-based products. In particular, PBAT blends containing
starch and PLA are extensively used for manufacturing shopping bags and
compostable waste bags. In agriculture, PBAT-based biodegradable mulch films
degrade naturally after use, thereby reducing plastic accumulation in soil
while improving moisture retention and suppressing weed growth (Jian et al.,
2020).
In the biomedical field, biodegradable bioplastics
exhibit considerable potential because of their biocompatibility, tunable
degradation behaviour, and multifunctional properties. These materials are
widely employed in drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, regenerative
medicine, and implantable medical devices. Three-dimensional (3D) porous
scaffolds fabricated from biodegradable polymers closely mimic the
extracellular matrix, thereby promoting cell attachment, proliferation,
differentiation, and tissue regeneration (Jangde, 2025). Furthermore, PHA-based
nanoparticles and polymers such as PLA and PLGA enable controlled drug delivery
with reduced toxicity and have demonstrated promising outcomes in targeted
cancer therapy. These polymers are also used for bone and nerve tissue
regeneration. In addition, the low melting temperature, environmental
compatibility, and cost-effectiveness of PLA make it an attractive material for
3D printing and automotive composite manufacturing. Medium-chain-length PHAs
(mcl-PHAs) are also valuable in pharmaceutical applications for synthesizing chiral
compounds and exhibit antifungal properties, expanding their applications in
adhesives and cosmetic products (Narancic et al., 2020).
6.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
The swift rise in plastic pollution worldwide and
its environmental consequences have spurred efforts to find sustainable options
to traditional petroleum-derived plastics. Bioplastics have surfaced as viable
alternatives, providing both ecological and economic benefits. Sourced from
renewable biological materials, they reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower
greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize the accumulation of persistent plastic
waste. Their ability to biodegrade and potential incorporation into circular
economies further enhance their contribution to promoting sustainable development
objectives.
6.1. Biodegradability and
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Bioplastics derived from renewable feedstocks
provide a more environmentally sustainable alternative to conventional
petrochemical plastics because of their biodegradability and lower carbon
footprint. Bioplastics such as PLA and PHA degrade more rapidly under
appropriate conditions, thereby minimize their environmental persistence. PLA,
for instance, produces approximately 70% lower greenhouse gas compared to
polystyrene when degrading (Elsawy et al., 2017; Iwata, 2015). In addition,
bioplastics produced from agricultural residues release much less CO₂ during
manufacturing. Life cycle assessment (LCA) studies indicate that PLA products,
such as disposable cups, require up to 52% less fossil fuel consumption and
exhibit a 22% lower climate impact than PET. Further, certain bioplastics like
PBAT also improve soil quality through greater microbial activity and carbon
cycling (Islam et al., 2024; Moretti et al., 2021; Wei et al., 2021).
6.2. Waste Management and
Compostability
Bioplastics contribute to sustainable waste
management by reducing the persistence of plastic waste and supporting
composting processes. Under industrial composting conditions, such as high
temperature and humidity bioplastics such as PLA, PHAs, starch blends, and
cellulose polymers can degrade into compost, enriching soil fertility and
promoting circular economy objectives. For instance, PLA can degrade in 4–6
weeks, while PHAs can degrade optimally under wider conditions (Ahsan et al.,
2023). Bioplastic compost improves soil structure, water holding capacity, and
microbial community diversity without depositing toxic residues. Emerging
technologies, including hydrothermal pretreatment, are being developed to further
improve bioplastic degradation and support sustainable waste management
(Marchelli & Fiori, 2025).
6.3. Potential to Reduce
Fossil Fuel Dependency
Replacing fossil-derived plastics with bio-based
alternatives offers a significant opportunity to reduce global dependence on
limited petroleum resources. The production of conventional plastics consumes
around 5%–7% of worldwide oil and generates nearly 1.8 gigatonnes of
CO₂-equivalent emissions annually, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable
alternatives. Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs)indicate that with Paris
Agreement-conformant climate targets, bioplastics can have a large role to play
in emissions reductions. By 2100, up to one-third of the world's plastics are
likely to be bioplastics, with PLA being the number one due to its economic and
technical advantages. This transition aids global decarbonization by lowering
fossil fuel consumption in energy and petrochemical industries (Mattlar &
Ekholm, 2025).
6.4. Market Potential and
Economic Viability
The worldwide demand for biodegradable and bio-based
plastics is growing quickly, fueled by rising consumer awareness, environmental
concerns, and favorable government initiatives. Emerging bioplastics like PEF
and polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT) show considerable potential in the
packaging and textile sectors, with substantial production increases
anticipated by 2030. Although they are currently pricier, advancements in
recycling and processing could reduce costs by half, enhancing their market
competitiveness. While second-generation, waste-derived approaches may require
longer payback periods, they are essential for establishing a circular economy.
Overall, continued technological innovation and policy support are expected to
drive long-term growth in the bioplastics sector (Döhler et al., 2022; Roux
& Varrone, 2021).
7.
Challenges and Limitations
Bioplastics, though advantageous for the
environment, encounter significant technical challenges that restrict their
wider use. Issues such as brittleness, excessive water absorption, low
crystallinity, and inadequate thermal stability diminish their effectiveness in
humid or high-heat conditions relative to traditional plastics (Costa et al.,
2023) To address these limitations, researchers are using reinforcements and
plasticizers. For example, starch-based bioplastics from corn and potato showed
a 22.5% increase in tensile strength and better biodegradability when calcium
carbonate and glycerol-sorbitol were added. Similarly, natural fibres and
nanoparticles have been used to improve mechanical strength, while plasticizers
enhance flexibility, thereby expanding the potential applications of
bioplastics (Gurunathan et al., 2025; Sharma et al., 2024).
Although bioplastics offer environmental benefits,
they encounter substantial economic challenges because of high manufacturing
expenses and difficulties in scaling up production. Their dependence on
agricultural byproducts results in variable availability and cost of raw
materials. Additionally, their inferior performance in certain aspects such as
barrier properties and processability requires more costly manufacturing
methods. At present, bioplastics account for only a minor percentage of overall
plastic production, highlighting the necessity for innovations in technology
and improvements in infrastructure (Rosenow et al., 2025).
Another major challenge is the lack of dedicated
recycling infrastructure, particularly for non-biodegradable bioplastics.
Improper sorting may contaminate conventional plastic recycling streams, while
certain additives may contribute to environmental toxicity and microplastic
formation. Comprehensive Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) are vital to
understanding the complete environmental effects of bioplastics—from raw
material acquisition to their disposal. This knowledge is important for
crafting effective policies and promoting responsible material choices in
various industries (Costa et al., 2023; Yan et
al 2026).
8.
Future Research Directions
and Technological Advancements
A transition toward a bio-based circular economy is
essential for achieving long-term environmental sustainability, with
bioplastics, particularly algae-based, providing environmentally friendly,
low-carbon alternatives throughout their lifecycle. To enhance their role,
future developments should focus on improving durability, shelf life, and and
large-scale production of bioplastics without compromising on biodegradability
(Mogany et al., 2024).
Technological advancements in genome sequencing,
synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and nanotechnology are expected to
facilitate the development of high-performance microbial platforms with
enhanced productivity and material properties. In addition, cost-effective
strategies, including the utilization of wastewater, mixotrophic culture, and
connection with waste streams can improve economic viability further. Expanding
applications of bioplastics to packaging, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and
textiles will contribute to market expansion. Public perception, standardized
terminology, and life cycle assessments (LCA) are critical to consumer
confidence and regulatory acceptance. Collaboration among governments,
industries, and academic institutions will be necessary to accelerate their
development and adoption. With appropriate technological and policy support,
bioplastics can become an integral component of the circular and blue
bioeconomy (Sharma et al., 2024).
9.
Conclusion
Bioplastics are increasingly at the forefront of the
world's shift toward a circular and sustainable materials economy. In contrast
to conventional fossil-originated plastics, biodegradable bio-based plastics
such as PEF and PTT have improved performance with reduced environmental
footprint. Produced frequently from renewable or waste feedstocks, they are
constructed to be more easily degraded or recycled, solving prominent
challenges of resource depletion and pollution. Technologies like plastic
biorefineries integrate biochemical recycling of plastic waste with bio-based
feedstocks to yield recyclable polymers, lowering dependence on petroleum and
eliminating plastic pollution. Industrial-scale use of bioplastics enhances
sustainability objectives such as decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and
minimizing microplastics.
Despite these advancements, challenges related to
production cost, scalability, recycling infrastructure, and end-of-life
management continue to limit their widespread commercialization. Future
research should focus on improving the efficiency and economic viability of
biorefinery processes, utilizing lignocellulosic biomass and other
waste-derived feedstocks, and advancing green chemistry, gene editing, and
chemical and biological recycling technologies to enhance bioplastic production
and circularity. Furthermore, policymakers should promote harmonized standards
for bioplastics, standardized life-cycle assessment methodologies, supportive
regulatory frameworks, financial incentives, and improved recycling and
end-of-life management systems to facilitate large-scale adoption. Through
coordinated efforts among researchers, industry, and governments, bioplastics
can play a pivotal role in achieving a resilient circular bioeconomy and
long-term environmental sustainability.
Conflict
of interest Authors
declares that there is no conflict of interest.
Funding
information not
applicable.
Ethical approval not applicable.
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