Exploring Biodegradable Polymer As Sustainable Alternative In Packaging Application

The study examines the use of biodegradable plastics in packaging with the examples of polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and starch-based blends as sustainable substitutes to traditional plastic materials. Their mechanical properties, barrier properties, processability and environmental effects are assessed by industrial scale processing tests and life cycle analyses (LCA). Industry cooperation guarantees practice-relevant work and content and realizes the challenges of mass production and implementation. Results indicate that, although biodegradable polymers possess an interesting potential to decrease plastic pollution and the carbon footprint, additional optimization is needed to achieve performance thresholds and affordability to establish their wide application. This research adds worthwhile products in developing environmentally friendly packaging solutions which are feasible industrially based on the concept of sustainability. Keywords- biodegradable polymers, sustainable packaging, polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, life cycle assessment, industrial processing, environmental impact, plastic alternatives