Bio-Based and Recyclable Materials

Le résumé fourni par la source

The transition to sustainable development has accelerated the study and development of bio-based and recyclable materials providing a viable means of reducing the environmental impacts. Bio-based materials are substances that can be broken down by natural processes into non-toxic components, reducing their environmental impact [ 1 – 5 ]. Biodegradable materials are obtained from biological sources that are renewable, such as plants, animals, and various pathogens. Bio-based materials are categorized into different types, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates. When we compare bio-based materials to standard products based on petrochemicals, these materials are planned to be more environment-friendly and decrease the dependence on fossil fuels. Evaluation of environmental sustainability can be achieved by producing bio-based products as it is important to understand their decarbonization or takeaway potential, and all linked impacts with their life-cycle that can be computed with the life-cycle assessment (LCA) tool. Recyclable materials are made in such a way that they can be reprocessed and reused, hence reducing waste, and giving more emphasis on innovations in recycling technology and design for recyclability. There are plenty of uses for these materials among various industries, which include the food and beverage industry, retail and agriculture industries. Nevertheless, there are certain barriers such as contamination issues, scalability, performance optimization, and economic viability that persist today as well and need to be addressed for future research. This chapter dives into the essential role of bio-based and recyclable materials in conserving as well as maintaining resources, mitigating climate change, and achieving a sustainable and circular economy.

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