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

Author

Listed:
  • Halayit Abrha

    (School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
    Eritrea Institute of Technology, Mai-Nefhi College of Science, Maekel 12676, Eritrea)

  • 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)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Halayit Abrha & Jonnathan Cabrera & Yexin Dai & Muhammad Irfan & Abrham Toma & Shipu Jiao & Xianhua Liu, 2022. "Bio-Based Plastics Production, Impact and End of Life: A Literature Review and Content Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(8), pages 1-20, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:14:y:2022:i:8:p:4855-:d:796514
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