Microalgae as a Renewable Resource for Bioplastic Production

Abstract

Increase in plastic waste accumulation is considered a growing concern, resulting in white pollution. It is unavoidable that an inventive method to reduce pollution will be required. Increased recycling of plastic waste is not a practical solution. Therefore, reducing petroleum-based polymer utilization is essential for environmental sustainability. Biobased polymers are gaining appeal as a promising alternative to petroleum-based polymers. Based on several studies, biobased plastics could be produced by several microbial species, particularly algal species, rather than petroleum-based polymers. Bioplastic synthesis from microalgae is a new option that calls for further studies. Algal biorefinery that integrates bioplastic complimentary activities will be investigated to determine its economic viability and environmental impact. Consequently, this chapter discusses the current status of bioplastic production technologies from microalgae species and different types of bioplastics produced by various algal species and the bioplastic material production methods from microalgae.

Environmental and Human Health Impact of Disposable Face Masks During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Wood-Feeding Termites as a Model for Plastic Biodegradation

“…Plastics and other synthetic polymers, for example, have evolved to the point where they are now an essential component of modern life. Every piece of plastic ever manufactured is still on the planet in some form, and it has posed a persistent threat to the natural world since its introduction [9][10][11]. The onset of the COVID-19 outbreak has made the problems that were already present in relation to the handling of plastic trash even worse.…”