Biodegradation of Hemicellulose-Cellulose-Starch-Based Bioplastics and Microbial Polyesters

The volume of discarded solid wastes, especially plastic, which accumulates in large quantities in different environments, has substantially increased. Population growth and the consumption pattern of societies associated with unsustainable production routes have caused the pollution level to increase. Therefore, the development of materials that help mitigate the impacts of plastics is fundamental. However, bioplastics can result in a misunderstanding about their properties and environmental impacts, as well as incorrect management of their final disposition, from misidentifications and classifications. This chapter addresses the aspects and factors surrounding the biodegradation of bioplastics from natural (plant biomass (starch, lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, and starch) and bacterial polyester polymers. Therefore, the biodegradation of bioplastics is a factor that must be studied, because due to the increase in the production of different bioplastics, they may present differences in the decomposition rates.

Automated summary

The volume of discarded solid wastes, especially plastic, has substantially increased, leading to environmental pollution. Developing materials to mitigate the impact of plastics is crucial. It is important to study the factors affecting the biodegradation of bioplastics due to potential differences in decomposition rates with different types of bioplastics.