Concern over plastic pollution has grown in recent years, which has raised interest in sustainable alternatives. Biodegradable plastic is one such option that has drawn a lot of interest. Biodegradable plastics are often seen as a solution to the world’s plastic waste problem since they promise to lessen environmental damage and help create a more sustainable future. However, what is biodegradable plastic and how is it different from conventional plastic? Let’s examine the idea of biodegradable plastics, including its benefits, drawbacks, and potential contribution to the fight against plastic pollution.
What is Biodegradable Plastic?
Biodegradable plastics are materials designed to break down naturally through the action of microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and algae. Under ideal circumstances, they transform into carbon dioxide, water, and compost.
- Polylactic acid (PLA) – Derived from renewable resources like corn starch, cassava roots, or sugarcane.
- Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) – Produced by bacterial fermentation of organic matter.
- Polybutylene succinate (PBS) – It is a biodegradable polyester thermoplastic that comes from biological sources and can be achieved from succinic acid and 1,4 butanediol
- Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) – Vinyl acetate is used to make polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a biodegradable material. Since it is a synthetic polymer, smaller chemical units are used to create it.
- Cellulose Acetate (CA) – It is made from cellulose, a naturally occurring polysaccharide in plants, by processing it with acetic acid and acetic anhydride.
- Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) – Made from glycolic acid, produced through the fermentation of natural carbohydrate sources.
- Eco-friendly
- Biodegradable
- Sustainable
- Utilization of renewable sources
- Easy to recycle
- Less production of waste material
- Packaging – Disposable cutlery, Cups, Plates
- Electrical and electronics – Loud speakers, Touch screen consumer casing
- Medical devices – Sutures, Dental implants
- Automotive and transport – Seat cushion, Air filter, Tool box
- Controlled Degradation Conditions – There are fewer choices for disposing of biodegradable plastics because many of them need industrial composting facilities to decompose properly.
- Higher Production Costs – The cost of producing biodegradable polymers is frequently higher than that of conventional plastics, which hinders their widespread use.
- Potential Competition with Food Supply – Because some basic commodities, like corn and sugarcane, are also used to make food, resource allocation becomes a challenge.
- Seaweed-Based Plastics
- Fungal-Based Bioplastics
- Nanotechnology in Bioplastics
- Recycled Bioplastics
Conclusion
Biodegradable plastics present a viable solution to the global plastic pollution crisis. While challenges remain, ongoing research, government policies, and consumer choices can accelerate their adoption. By embracing biodegradable plastics, we move towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
References
Anastas, Paul T.; Warner, John C. (1998). Green Chemistry: Theory and Practice. Oxford [England]; New York: Oxford University Press.
https://scienceinfo.com/applications-of-green-chemistry/
Roberto Ballini: Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Fine Chemicals, Royal Society of Chemistry (2009)