Bio-Based Plastics Production, Impact and End of Life: A Literature Review and Content Analysis

Halayit Abrha, Jonnathan Cabrera, Yexin Dai, Muhammad Irfan, Abrham Toma, Shipu Jiao and Xianhua Liu
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Halayit Abrha: School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
Jonnathan Cabrera: School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
Yexin Dai: School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
Muhammad Irfan: School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
Abrham Toma: School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
Shipu Jiao: School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
Xianhua Liu: School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China

Sustainability, 2022, vol. 14, issue 8, 1-20

Abstract: The accumulation of plastic wastes is one of the most widely spread problems affecting the environment. The reality that plastics can be made from renewable resources and degrade naturally has prompted academics to think outside the box to develop “better for the environment” items. In this paper, a bibliometric analysis of the scholarly publications related to bio-based plastics within the last 20 years is presented. Annual progression, geographic and research area distribution, and keyword co-occurrence were all examined. Six distinct clusters emerged from keyword analysis, which were further categorized into three directions: production to marketing; impact on the environment, economy, and society; and end-of-life (EoL) options. The major focus was on how to counter the weaknesses and challenges of bio-based plastics and take opportunities using the inherent advantages of bio-based plastics. Comprehensive studies regarding the impact of bio-based plastics on the environment, economy and social sustainability are still deficient. Although there are many promising innovations in this area, most of them are at the research stage. The benefits of bio-based plastics and better EoL options can be enjoyed only after increased production.

Keywords: bio-based plastics; bioplastic; biodegradable plastics; renewable; bibliometric analysis; end-of-life (EoL) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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