Bioplastic: A Sustainable Solution to Plastic Pollution

Bioplastic illustration, source: Unsplash.com
  • Bioplastics are a type of plastic that is made from renewable biomass, such as plants, rather than fossil fuels.
  • They provide a sustainable alternative to typical plastics generated from fossil fuels.
  • Collaboration among stakeholders, including governments, companies, and consumers, is critical to realizing bioplastics’ full potential as a solution to plastic pollution.

What is Bioplastic?

Bioplastic illustration, source: Unsplash.com

Bioplastics are a type of plastic that is made from renewable biomass, such as plants, rather than fossil fuels. They are intended to be more environmentally friendly throughout their whole life cycle, from manufacturing to disposal. Because of their ability to lessen environmental impact, bioplastics are described as polymers derived from biological sources and manufactured from renewable feedstocks or by a variation of bacteria. Bioplastics, as opposed to traditional plastics, which are generated from nonrenewable resources such as crude oil, have the potential to reduce carbon emissions and dependency on finite resources.

The bioplastics business is still in its early stages, accounting for only 1% of global plastic production in 2019. However, the growing public awareness of the toxicity of plastics, along with increased government control of plastic waste, has resulted in a boom of interest and investment in bioplastics, a sector that is predicted to grow by 10% to 14% between 2020 and 2025.


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How is it Made?

To produce bioplastic, polymers (complex chains of molecules) are extracted from biomass to be formed into plastic products. Biomass can include edible sources, wastes from various industry, and algae. Here are several types of bioplastics based on their composition and properties:

  • Starch-Based Bioplastics

These bioplastics are primarily made from starch obtained from crops like corn, potatoes, or wheat. Starch is processed and blended with other biodegradable polymers to create materials with diverse applications.

  • Polylactic Acid (PLA)

PLA is a widely used bioplastic derived from fermented plant sugars, usually obtained from crops like corn, sugarcane, or cassava. PLA can be used for packaging, disposable items, and textiles.

  • Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)

PHA bioplastics are produced through the fermentation of plant sugars or vegetable oils by certain bacteria. PHA is a versatile material with applications in packaging, medical devices, and other industries.

  • Cellulose-Based Bioplastics

These bioplastics are derived from cellulose-rich sources like wood pulp, cotton, or agricultural residues. Cellulose-based bioplastics are known for their excellent barrier properties and can be used for packaging and textiles.


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Bioplastic as A Solution to Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution illustration, source: Unsplash.com

Bioplastics appear to be a possible answer to the widespread problem of plastic pollution. They provide a sustainable alternative to typical plastics generated from fossil fuels because they are derived from renewable biomass sources such as plants. Bioplastics help to reduce environmental impact by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on limited resources. The capacity of certain bioplastics to biodegrade, or break down naturally into harmless components through composting or anaerobic digestion, distinguishes them. Through biological processes such as composting or anaerobic digestion, biodegradable bioplastics can naturally degrade into simpler compounds such as water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. This means that, unlike typical plastics, they do not survive in the environment for hundreds of years, decreasing the accumulation of plastic trash. Biodegradable bioplastics have the potential to minimize microplastic pollution because they break down into non-toxic components, leaving behind fewer persistent plastic particles. This biodegradability reduces plastic waste accumulation and aids in the fight against microplastic pollution.

Furthermore, because bioplastics can be recycled alongside conventional plastics or processed in dedicated composting facilities, they contribute to sustainable waste management practices. They can be recycled in existing recycling facilities alongside traditional plastics. Furthermore, certain bioplastics can be composted in specialized facilities, yielding valuable compost for agriculture and horticulture. Bioplastics have the potential to spur innovation and foster a circular economy, making them a feasible solution in the fight against plastic pollution as consumer awareness and demand for eco-friendly alternatives develop.

It is crucial to emphasize, however, that the efficiency of bioplastics in decreasing plastic pollution is dependent on a variety of factors, including proper waste management infrastructure, consumer behavior, and the selection of sustainable feedstocks for bioplastic manufacturing. Collaboration among stakeholders, including governments, companies, and consumers, is critical to realizing bioplastics’ full potential as a solution to plastic pollution and creating a more sustainable future.

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