<p>Plastic pollution, driven by the growing global reliance on synthetic materials, poses a significant environmental threat, contributing to microplastic accumulation, habitat degradation and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Bioplastics, derived from renewable biological sources, offer a sustainable alternative by addressing these environmental and health concerns. This review critically evaluates the potential of bioplastics to replace traditional plastics, focusing on their reduced carbon footprint, biodegradability and role in advancing a circular economy. The review also presents novel insights into recent advancements in bioplastic production and innovative applications across various industries. Furthermore, the study outlines strategies for overcoming challenges such as high production costs, poor mechanical strength and inadequate recycling infrastructure, offering a roadmap for policy development, research, and industrial integration to position bioplastics as a viable and scalable solution for sustainable development.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>