Algal bioplastics: current market trends and technical aspects

Abstract

Plastics are undebatably a hot topic of discussion across international forums due to their huge ecological footprint. The onset of COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the issue in an irreversible manner. Bioplastics produced from renewable sources are a result of lookout for sustainable alternatives. Replacing a ton of synthetic plastics with biobased ones reduces 1.8 tons CO 2 emissions. Here, we begin with highlighting the problem statement—Plastic accumulation and its associated negative impacts. Microalgae outperforms plants and microbes, when used to produce bioplastic due to superior growth rate, non-competitive nature to food, and simultaneous wastewater remediation. They have minimal nutrient requirements and less dependency on climatic conditions for cultivation. These are the reasons for current boom in the algal bioplastic market. However, it is still not at par in price with the petroleum-based plastics. A brief market research has been done to better evaluate the current global status and future scope of algal bioplastics. The objective of this review is to propose possible solutions to resolve the challenges in scale up of bioplastic industry. Various bioplastic production technologies have been comprehensively discussed along with their optimization strategies. Overall studies discussed show that in order to make it cost competitive adopting a multi-dimensional approach like algal biorefinery is the best way out. A holistic comparison of any bio-based alternative with its conventional counterpart is imperative to assess its impact upon commercialization. Therefore, the review concludes with the life cycle assessment of bioplastics and measures to improve their inclusivity in a circular economy. Graphical Abstract

Recent Development in Urban Polyhydroxyalkanoates Biorefineries

“…For the production of bioplastic, various natural resources are used which comprise plant-based raw materials, natural polymers such as carbohydrates, proteins, sugars, disaccharides, and fatty acids [59]. Microalgae are more promising candidates of bioplastic manufacturers than most plants and microbes due to their superior growth rate, non-competitive nature for food [60], and effluent treatment. The polysaccharides of the microalgae produce biodegradable plastic that can decompose faster than the synthetic plastic.…”

Advances, Synergy, and Perspectives of Machine Learning and Biobased Polymers for Energy, Fuels, and Biochemicals for a Sustainable Future

“…3−5 Traditional materials, primarily derived from finite resources, exacerbate the environmental burden, contributing to pollution and resource depletion. 6,7 The promise of biobased polymers, sourced from renewable biomass, is overshadowed by various obstacles, including their production, modification, and application in diverse fields. 8 ML, a subset of artificial intelligence, involves the development of algorithms and statistical models that enable computers to perform tasks without explicit instructions.…”

Synthesis and Biodegradation of Optically Active Polymers Based on (R)‐3‐Hydroxybutyric Acid

“…Plastics can be found in manufactured products and in the packaging of many different foods and products. Although plastics emit carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) during production and after use, [1,2] they have also helped to reduce CO 2 emissions. The incorporation of lighter plastic parts in aircraft and automobiles have improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO 2 emissions [3,4] .…”