Role of Green Chemistry in Producing Biodegradable Plastic and Its Role in Sustainable Development
摘要
The application of green chemistry in producing biodegradable plastics represents a pivotal advancement towards sustainable development. This chapter elucidates the principles of green chemistry, including waste prevention, safe chemical design, atom economy, safer solvents, and energy efficiency, and their implementation in synthesizing biodegradable polymers. It provides a comprehensive overview of various biodegradable plastics, such as starch-based plastics, poly-lactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and other emerging alternatives, discussing their production methodologies and diverse applications. The chapter examines green synthesis methods, the utilization of renewable resources, and the employment of catalysts and green solvents, underscoring their significance in minimizing the environmental footprint of plastic production. Through detailed case studies, the efficacy of green chemistry in manufacturing biodegradable plastics is demonstrated, highlighting its potential to transform the industry.