Development and sustainability of bioplastics: A review

The expansion and development of bioplastics and their products would increase environmental sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A game-changer and a critical component of a long-term plastic pollution solution, bioplastics would be a game-changer. However, extensive public awareness is required to achieve long-term change in the fight against plastic pollution. This response could aid in addressing environmental threats. Plastic particles and waste and biodegradable plastics, make up a small part of the worldwide plastics industry, needing further research and development. This work provides a comprehensive analysis of the advances in biodegradable plastics through the challenges of the plastic industry and the vast market potential for biodegradable plastics. Government policy, and the socioeconomic and environmental consequences of plastics. Physio-chemical characteristics, standards, certifications, and analytical methods are discussed. It was found that bioplastics outperform petroleum-based plastics in terms of energy consumption, petroleum use, and carbon dioxide emissions. However, they fall short in terms of cost and application. Pollution and safety differ from one plastic to the next; although, bioplastics are generally safer. Hence, bioplastics are believed to be unviable in their existing state for the wide-scale application.