Environmental performance of bioplastics: degradation pathways, chemical leaching, and life-cycle implications

Abstract Bioplastics promise lower-carbon alternatives to conventional plastics, yet their environmental performance remains contested. This review synthesizes evidence across three pillars: degradation pathways and micro/nanoplastic generation; chemical leaching and disinfection-by-product formation; and life-cycle impacts and circularity. We integrate toxicological data, real-world fate, and evolving EU/US/ISO standards, highlighting research gaps. We outline priorities, improving end-of-life infrastructure, recyclable design, and harmonized, global assessments, to transition bioplastics from aspirational substitutes to demonstrably sustainable materials.