| Title: | The role of biodegradable plastics in a sustainable economy : progress and challenges |
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| Authors: | ID Kegl, Tina (Author)
ID Van Fan, Yee (Author)
ID Čuček, Lidija (Author) |
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| Files: |  1-s2.0-S2666790825002526-main.pdf (17,74 MB)
MD5: 95B635100E79A0E7F417B51F4D84F1BA
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| Language: | English |
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| Work type: | Article |
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| Typology: | 1.01 - Original Scientific Article |
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| Organization: | FKKT - Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
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| Abstract: | The widespread use of plastics has resulted in significant environmental challenges, including pollution, landfill accumulation, and harm to ecosystems and human health. As concerns over plastic waste intensify, biodegradable plastics have emerged as promising alternatives that can decompose under specific conditions and contribute to a circular economy. This review examines how biodegradable plastics can help address these issues, beginning with the distinction between biodegradable polymers, which are long-chain molecules, and biodegradable plastics, which are end-use materials created by blending these polymers with additives and fillers. It explores common biodegradable polymers, their origins, production processes, and key physical and chemical properties. Further, the review covers both the compounding stage, in which polymers and additives are combined, and the subsequent product development and processing steps involved in manufacturing of biodegradable plastics. A criterion is proposed to assess and rank biodegradable plastics based on their biodegradability. The review also discusses applications and the sustainability of their value chains. Key challenges to widespread adoption, such as technological limitations, economic concerns, and environmental or health risks, are highlighted. Finally, the review stresses the importance of advancing biomass cultivation, polymer development, processing techniques, and degradation methods to unlock the full potential of biodegradable plastics. Overall, it emphasizes the need for continued innovation to promote sustainable materials and improve plastic waste management. |
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| Keywords: | biodegradable polymers, biodegradable plastics, circular economy, plastics production and consumption, plastic value chains sustainability, environmental impact reduction |
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| Publication status: | Published |
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| Publication version: | Version of Record |
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| Submitted for review: | 19.03.2025 |
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| Article acceptance date: | 10.12.2025 |
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| Publication date: | 08.12.2025 |
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| Publisher: | Elsevier Ltd. |
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| Year of publishing: | 2026 |
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| Number of pages: | 43 str. |
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| Numbering: | Vol. 30, [article no.] 101129 |
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| PID: | 20.500.12556/DKUM-96335  |
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| UDC: | 66 |
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| ISSN on article: | 2666-7908 |
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| COBISS.SI-ID: | 261527555 |
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| DOI: | 10.1016/j.clet.2025.101129 |
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| Copyright: | © 2025 The Authors |
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| Publication date in DKUM: | 19.12.2025 |
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| Views: | 227 |
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| Downloads: | 4 |
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| Metadata: |    |
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| Categories: | Misc.
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