Bioplastics: A Sustainable and Environment-Friendly Alternative to Plastics

Abstract

Petrochemical-based plastics have been widely used as packaging materials, as they have good barrier properties, stiffness, tensile strength, and tear strength. Plastics, despite being in high demand, have several drawbacks, including a very low water vapor transmission rate and non-biodegradability. The proper disposal of plastic has recently emerged as a persistent and perhaps worldwide environmental problem. Recently, the disposal of plastic has become a chronic and possible global environmental issue. Dumping plastic debris on both land and sea decreased soil fertility and inappropriate plastic disposal has caused the deaths of millions of animals. Newer ideas about the usage of bioplastics came into effect while keeping in mind the pollution and harm done to the environment. Bioplastics are made from biological materials like banana peels, corn, sugarcane, wheat, and potato peels. These plastics are safer than those made from petroleum since they are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. These biodegradable plastics dissolve upon breakdown into carbon dioxide, water, and inorganic chemicals. They do, however, have significant drawbacks, such as high costs, recycling, using fewer raw resources, terminology being misused, and a lack of legislation. Some aspects of bioplastics will be highlighted in the current review.