Abstract

Bioplastics are emerging as a viable sustainable alternative to conventional plastics, addressing pressing environmental issues such as plastic pollution and resource depletion. This review provides a comprehensive overview of bioplastics, detailing their various types, production methods, and waste management approaches. It highlights the environmental advantages of bioplastics derived from renewable resources, including lower carbon footprints and improved biodegradability. The review examines different bioplastic categories, such as starch-based, cellulose-based, and advanced bioplastics like Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Poly-hydroxy-alkanoates (PHA), and discusses their respective benefits and challenges. It also evaluates the efficacy of waste management strategies including recycling, composting, and energy recovery, while considering the role of bioplastics in promoting circular economy practices. The review concludes that bioplastics have the potential to reduce global plastic waste by up to 50%, significantly contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as responsible consumption (SDG 12) and climate action (SDG 13), and advance the field of sustainable material science. With ongoing technological advancements and increased adoption, bioplastics represent a promising approach to mitigating environmental impact and enhancing sustainability.

Keywords:Bioplastics; Sustainability; Waste management; Recycling; Circular economy