From Agricultural Waste to Recyclable Biodegradable Packaging: A Systematic and Bibliometric Review

Abstract

Amidst the dual global pressures of plastic pollution and resource scarcity, the transition to a circular economy has become an imperative. The valorization of biomass waste from agricultural, food, and animal processing into biodegradable packaging materials presents a key strategy to address this challenge. This review aims to systematically construct a comprehensive knowledge framework for the field, addressing the thematic fragmentation and methodological limitations of existing literature through integrated cross-stream analysis, combined bibliometric and technological assessment, and identification of emerging research frontiers. We begin with a bibliometric analysis to delineate the field’s evolutionary trajectory since 2008, global collaboration networks, core research themes, and emerging frontiers, revealing a clear progression from environmental impact assessment to functional material innovation. Subsequently, this review delves into the complete technological chain, from the green extraction of bio-based materials from three major waste streams to the comparison of traditional and advanced film fabrication methods. We then elaborate on the critical performance evaluation dimensions, including mechanical, barrier, biodegradable, safety, and functional properties, and summarize current applications in sectors such as food and medicine. Finally, we critically assess the core challenges related to cost, performance stability, and large-scale production, and provide a systematic outlook on future research directions, particularly the development of high-performance, multifunctional, and intelligent materials. This review offers a comprehensive and data-driven reference framework for researchers and industry stakeholders in the field.