Abstract
The usage and demand of polymer products are growing exponentially throughout the world due to rapid urbanization. Traditional polymers are produced from fossil fuel and crude oil causing depletion of natural resources and will remain in the environment for several years because of their non-degradability, recalcitrance and persistence in nature. The accumulation of synthetic non-biodegradable polymer wastes in the eco-system is a matter of great concern. Some traditional methods applied for the treatment of polymer wastes are unsuitable due to release of toxic gasses and hazardous metabolites. Thus, an eco-friendly, sustainable, cost-effective approach having suitable option of polymer waste management is an urgent necessity. In recent times, several researchers have developed a novel, green and sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-based polymers, termed as biodegradable polymers. Agricultural wastes derived from various resources and organic wastes are rich in bio-compounds and have the potential to be used as precursors for biodegradable polymers production. Agro-wastes are inexpensive and easily available compare to other precursors or resources. There are several advantages of biodegradable polymers in contrast to synthetic polymer including nontoxic, recyclability, safe, environment friendly, etc. The degradation process depends on numerous factors of polymer including surface conditions, chemical structure etc. Biodegradable polymers can be applied in various sectors, such as packaging, agriculture etc. Utilization and valorization of agro-wastes can make the environment pollution free, safe, clean, greener and sustainable. This present article explores an overview of biodegradable polymers including definition, beneficial properties, classification, resources especially agricultural wastes, biodegradability and their potential uses.
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