Algal-based bioplastics: global trends in applied research, technologies, and commercialization

Trisha Mogany; Virthie Bhola; Faizal Bux

doi:10.1007/s11356-024-33644-9

journal article Open Access May 24, 2024

Algal-based bioplastics: global trends in applied research, technologies, and commercialization

Trisha Mogany

Virthie Bhola

Faizal Bux

Environmental Science and Pollution Research Vol. 31 No. 26 pp. 38022-38044 · Springer Science and Business Media LLC

View at Publisher Save 10.1007/s11356-024-33644-9

Abstract

AbstractThe excessive global demand for plastic materials has resulted in severe plastic waste pollution. Conventional plastics derived from non-renewable fossil fuels are non-biodegradable, leading to significant environmental problems. Algal-based bioplastics represent a more viable, renewable, and sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. They have identical properties and characteristics as conventional plastics while being naturally biodegradable. The potential of the algal biomass value chain has already been well-established by researchers. Here, we review the novel insights on research, technology, and commercialization trends of algal-based bioplastics, encompassing macroalgae and green microalgae/cyanobacteria. Data showed that within the last decade, there has been substantial interest in utilizing microalgae for biopolymer production, with more focus on using cyanobacterial species compared to green algae. Moreover, most of the research conducted has largely focused on the production of PHA or its co-polymers. Since 2011, there have been a total of 55 patents published related to algal-based bioplastics production. To date, ~ 81 entities worldwide (commercial and private businesses) produce bioplastics from algae. Overall results of this study emphasized that even with the economic and social challenges, algae possess a substantial potential for the sustainable development of bioplastics while also addressing the UN’s SDGs.

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Metrics

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Citations

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Details

Published: May 24, 2024
Vol/Issue: 31(26)
Pages: 38022-38044
License: View

Authors

Institute for Water and Wastewater Technologies, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4001, South Africa

Funding

National Research Foundation Award: 84166

Durban University of Technology

Cite This Article

Trisha Mogany, Virthie Bhola, Faizal Bux (2024). Algal-based bioplastics: global trends in applied research, technologies, and commercialization. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 31(26), 38022-38044. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-024-33644-9

Algal-based bioplastics: global trends in applied research, technologies, and commercialization

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