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The Role of Bacterial Polyhydroalkanoate (PHA) in a Sustainable Future: A Review on the Biological Diversity

Author

Listed:
  • Diogo Vicente

    (Department of Life Sciences, Centre for Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Processes, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal)

  • Diogo Neves Proença

    (Department of Life Sciences, Centre for Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Processes, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal)

  • Paula V. Morais

    (Department of Life Sciences, Centre for Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Processes, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal)

Abstract

Environmental challenges related to the mismanagement of plastic waste became even more evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. The need for new solutions regarding the use of plastics came to the forefront again. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) have demonstrated their ability to replace conventional plastics, especially in packaging. Its biodegradability and biocompatibility makes this material a sustainable solution. The cost of PHA production and some weak physical properties compared to synthetic polymers remain as the main barriers to its implementation in the industry. The scientific community has been trying to solve these disadvantages associated with PHA. This review seeks to frame the role of PHA and bioplastics as substitutes for conventional plastics for a more sustainable future. It is focused on the bacterial production of PHA, highlighting the current limitations of the production process and, consequently, its implementation in the industry, as well as reviewing the alternatives to turn the production of bioplastics into a sustainable and circular economy.

Suggested Citation

  • Diogo Vicente & Diogo Neves Proença & Paula V. Morais, 2023. "The Role of Bacterial Polyhydroalkanoate (PHA) in a Sustainable Future: A Review on the Biological Diversity," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(4), pages 1-21, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:4:p:2959-:d:1061594
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