Review on valorization of lignocellulosic biomass for green plastics production: Sustainable and cleaner approaches

Abstract

Environmental problems associated with world's largest energy source namely fossil fuels are well known. In addition, petroleum and other nonrenewable energy sources are running out and will be depleted soon. However, many polymers are derived from petroleum. In the face of international movement away from oil-based polymers such as, general purpose polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene, terephthalate, high density and low density polyethylene, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, and towards a safe and sustainable future, major research labs in the world are trying to uncover the big breakthrough, particularly via utilizing natural/renewable agro-residues as a substrate for green biopolymers. Considering, non-edible lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) as a feedstock for bio-polymers production as it does not interfere with food security, generate no tailpipe emissions, and also lead to reduction in stubble burning. Among possible organic sources of biopolymers, micro- and macro- algae, provides a wide variety of proteins, lipids, polyphenols, and polysachharides which are currently employed for pharmaceutical, packaging, food, and biomedical applications. Current review summarizes the key insights on microbial biopolymer production from LCB and algal biomass by means of circular bioeconomy. Biobased approach will not only reduce the process cost but also generates economy for farmers globally and promotes innovation in domestic manufacturing.