Management of Biodegradable Plastic Waste: A Review

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Advances in Waste Processing Technology

Abstract

The development and utilization of biodegradable plastics are currently being promoted as a solution to ecological and environmental impacts associated with the conventional petrochemical-based plastics. Biodegradation processes have opened an unprecedented opportunity for sustainable management of plastic waste. However, definite answers to a few significant issues related to the choice of plastics, their biodegradability and role in waste management are limited. Since the physical appearance of plastics made from either biodegradable or non-biodegradable materials is indistinguishable, labelling and identification of biodegradable plastics in a sensible and easily recognizable way are necessary. Biodegradable plastics can benefit the waste management only if efficient collection and sorting systems is implemented. Successful implementation of sustainable waste management by the use of biodegradable plastics requires thorough understanding on the end-of-life management options and the environmental impact of these polymers, which call for the integration in policies, regulation and standards. This review addresses the current scenario, opportunities and challenges in the management of biodegradable plastic waste.

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Correspondence to Sariah Saalah .

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Saalah, S., Saallah, S., Ra**, M., Yaser, A.Z. (2020). Management of Biodegradable Plastic Waste: A Review. In: Yaser, A. (eds) Advances in Waste Processing Technology. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-15-4821-5_8

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