Harnessing Algae-Based Bioplastics as a Sustainable Alternative to Fossil-Derived Plastics

Abstract

The exponential rise in global plastic consumption, coupled with its heavy dependence on fossil fuels, has resulted in severe environmental and ecological consequences—ranging from greenhouse gas emissions to widespread marine pollution. In response, bioplastics derived from renewable sources have emerged as a promising solution, particularly those synthesized from algae. This study explores the potential of algae-based bioplastics—produced from macroalgae (e.g., Ulva lactuca) and microalgae (e.g., Chlorella, Spirulina) - as a sustainable and circular alternative to conventional plastics. Owing to their rapid growth, high biomass yield, and non-reliance on arable land, algae offer distinct ecological advantages over traditional biomass sources like corn or starch. The research examines the types of algal bioplastics, key production processes, and the integration of genetic engineering techniques to enhance yield and biodegradability. It also addresses scalability, economic feasibility, and degradation by-product limitations. Furthermore, the study evaluates policy and regulatory frameworks that support the development and adoption of bio-based materials. The findings suggest that algae-derived bioplastics reduce reliance on fossil resources and align with circular economy principles by offering biodegradable, renewable, and low-impact alternatives. As global environmental concerns intensify, algae-based bioplastics may play a vital role in reshaping the future of sustainable materials and reducing plastic pollution at scale. 

mehr

Mehr zum Titel

Titel Harnessing Algae-Based Bioplastics as a Sustainable Alternative to Fossil-Derived Plastics
Medien Conference Proceedings 12th INTERNATIONAL EUROPEAN CONFERENCE ON INTERDISCIPLINARY SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, July 11-13, 2025 / Roma, Italy (eurocongress)
Verlag Liberty Publishing House
Herausgeber Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin KALGI
Band 2025
Verfasser Samra Akbar, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Anke Knoblauch, Ismail Hakki Tekiner, Dilek Yalcin
Seiten 533 - 534
Veröffentlichungsdatum 27.07.2025
Zitation Akbar, Samra; Knoblauch, Anke; Tekiner, Ismail Hakki; Yalcin, Dilek (2025): Harnessing Algae-Based Bioplastics as a Sustainable Alternative to Fossil-Derived Plastics. Conference Proceedings 12th INTERNATIONAL EUROPEAN CONFERENCE ON INTERDISCIPLINARY SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, July 11-13, 2025 / Roma, Italy (eurocongress) 2025, 533 - 534.