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Chapter 4 Overview of biopolymers for sustainable environment

  • Namita Das , Manjusha Panthanal und Geetha Kannan
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Abstract

Biopolymers, which are derived from renewable resources, have demonstrated potential in mitigating the environmental problems associated with conventional plastics. Plastics are a global problem since traditional garbage is not managed effectively. Proteins, polysaccharides, and bio-based polymers like polylactic acid and polyhydroxyalkanoates are examples of biopolymers, both natural and synthetic. The chapter looks at how biopolymers are made using renewable resources, highlighting the role that biomass and sustainable agriculture have played in this transition. It also considers the properties of biopolymers, such as mechanical strength and composability, when comparing their effects on the entire life cycle to those of conventional plastics. Applications of biopolymers are explored, with a focus on how they could help encourage more environmentally friendly procedures in the building, medical, packaging, and agricultural sectors. The infrastructure required for biopolymer recycling and composting, together with the waste management challenges they raise, are discussed, emphasizing the importance of proper degradation and disposal routes. The economic and policy implications of the adoption of biopolymers, including cost considerations, market demand, and governmental regulations, are also covered in this chapter. The limitations and challenges of increasing production volume, in addition to technological developments that enhance the functionality of biopolymers – like bio-based nanocomposites and advanced synthesis methods are discussed. The future of biopolymers is discussed in the next section of the chapter, along with potential solutions to existing problems and emerging trends that make biopolymers well-positioned to assist in achieving the objectives of global sustainability.

Abstract

Biopolymers, which are derived from renewable resources, have demonstrated potential in mitigating the environmental problems associated with conventional plastics. Plastics are a global problem since traditional garbage is not managed effectively. Proteins, polysaccharides, and bio-based polymers like polylactic acid and polyhydroxyalkanoates are examples of biopolymers, both natural and synthetic. The chapter looks at how biopolymers are made using renewable resources, highlighting the role that biomass and sustainable agriculture have played in this transition. It also considers the properties of biopolymers, such as mechanical strength and composability, when comparing their effects on the entire life cycle to those of conventional plastics. Applications of biopolymers are explored, with a focus on how they could help encourage more environmentally friendly procedures in the building, medical, packaging, and agricultural sectors. The infrastructure required for biopolymer recycling and composting, together with the waste management challenges they raise, are discussed, emphasizing the importance of proper degradation and disposal routes. The economic and policy implications of the adoption of biopolymers, including cost considerations, market demand, and governmental regulations, are also covered in this chapter. The limitations and challenges of increasing production volume, in addition to technological developments that enhance the functionality of biopolymers – like bio-based nanocomposites and advanced synthesis methods are discussed. The future of biopolymers is discussed in the next section of the chapter, along with potential solutions to existing problems and emerging trends that make biopolymers well-positioned to assist in achieving the objectives of global sustainability.

Heruntergeladen am 2.1.2026 von https://www.degruyterbrill.com/document/doi/10.1515/9783111618906-004/html
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