Development of Bio-based and Biodegradable Plastics: Novelty, Advent, and Alternative Technology

The impact of environmental-related issues poses a deleterious effect on the existence of human life and its biophysical surroundings. Discarded plastic materials have been identified as threats to the environment as most of these materials are considered non-degradable. Indiscriminate disposal and inefficiencies in recycling most of these non-degradable plastics have markedly led to the pollution of the various components of the environment. Bio-based and biodegradable materials have progressively been studied as alternative to petroleum-based plastics. These novel plastic materials, unlike those from non-renewable petroleum resources, can decompose completely with minimal or no threat to the environment. They are therefore considered eco-friendly, spurring burgeoning demand for their application in packaging, etc. Bio-based and biodegradable plastics produced from natural and petroleum sources are both degradable. Consequently, their use can mitigate waste disposal challenges and ultimately protect the environment.