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Overview Bioplastics derived from microorganisms as an environmentally friendly method of reducing plastic pollution

Hamad Mohammed Almutairi; Salamah D Almokhalidy; Essam Mobarak Alharshani; Mohammed Abdulrahman Alem and Faisal Al-Sarraj Ahmed M. Al hejin

ABSTRACT: Microalgae and cyanobacteria are examples of photosynthetic microorganisms that can be used to produce renewable biomass for the production of bioplastics. These microorganisms grow quickly, and unlike other feedstocks, such as land crops, they do not require arable land to thrive. Furthermore, they can be used as raw materials in the production of bioplastics, removing them from competition with food sources (e.g., corn, wheat, and soy protein). In this article, we will look at the macromolecules that can be derived from microalgae and cyanobacteria and used in the bioplastics manufacturing process. The goal of this work is to provide an overview. Bioplastics derived from microorganisms are an environmentally friendly method of reducing plastic pollution. Starch and glycogen are examples of macromolecules, as are polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), cellulose, polylactic acid (PLA), and triacylglycerols (TAGs). Furthermore, we place a strong emphasis on the cultivation of microalgae and cyanobacteria as a method of wastewater treatment. This strategy would allow for a reduction in the supply of nutrients required for biomass production while also treating wastewater. As a result, there is debate about how wastewater treatment, in conjunction with biomass generation, can serve as feedstock for the production of bioplastic.

[ FULL TEXT PDF 1-10 ] DOI: 10.22587/jasr.2023.19.4.1

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