Systematic Evidence Mapping to Assess the Sustainability of Bioplastics Derived from Food Waste: Do We Know Enough?

Abstract

The production of bioplastics from food loss and waste (FLW), termed FLW-derived bioplastics, is considered an attractive alternative to first-generation bioplastics. To our knowledge, a clear understanding of the sustainability performance of FLW-derived bioplastics from environmental, economic, technical, and social aspects is still lacking. This systematic evidence mapping aims to fill this gap by undertaking a reality check on the life cycle sustainability performance of FLW-derived bioplastics from a multidimensional perspective underpinned by systems thinking approach to assess their potential to revolutionise the plastics economy. Results revealed that FLW-derived bioplastic production is highly complex and uncertain. The low technological readiness of FLW valorisation processes and the under-researched logistics of FLW management on a regional scale currently withhold advancement in this field. Nonetheless, progress is looming, and ensuring that FLW-derived bioplastics production enables the transition toward a sustainable bioeconomy is critical. Innovation in both the food and plastics value chains is urgently needed to address their challenges and mitigate pollution. Yet, any steps forward need to be holistically calculated to yield sustainability benefits and prevent unintended consequences.