Prospects of biopolymer technology as an alternative option for non-degradable plastics and sustainable management of plastic wastes

Abstract

As of yet, disposal platforms for synthetic polymers have not matured in an environmentally benign manner. Consequently, their wastes tend to remain as sources of pollution that chronically release hazardous substances. In a strategical sense, biopolymers synthesized from natural (plant/animal or microbial) sources are thus recognized as an attractive and alternative option to replace synthetic polymers in various respects, as demonstrated from their Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). It is found that some biopolymers (e.g., polylactic acid (PLA)) are naturally biodegradable, whereas others (e.g., ones derived from bioethanol) are not. In light of such limitations, new and innovative ideas and findings have been proposed to seek for the sustainable use of biopolymers. In this review, the prospects of biopolymer technology were emphasized to address the issues associated with non-degradability of plastics. In this respect, essential strategies were also discussed further for biopolymers as an alternative option for non-degradable plastics to help establish sustainable management plan for plastic wastes based on standards, certifications, and labeling of biopolymers. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.