Biodegradable stone paper from waste‐derived mineral fillers: A critical review of sustainable materials, processing, circular economy, and life cycle assessment

Abstract The growing demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional paper has accelerated interest in biodegradable stone paper as an environmentally friendly material with reduced resource consumption and improved circularity. This review critically examines the development of biodegradable stone paper produced from waste‐derived mineral fillers and biodegradable polymer matrices, highlighting advances in material selection, composite design, manufacturing processes, and environmental performance. The roles of industrial waste fillers, including marble dust and fly ash, together with biodegradable binders such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), are comprehensively evaluated. Processing technologies, filler–matrix interactions, and key factors governing mechanical performance and product quality are discussed alongside life cycle assessment, resource efficiency, and end‐of‐life management. Furthermore, the review analyzes techno‐economic challenges, commercialization potential, and research gaps related to sustainable manufacturing. By integrating materials, processing, circular economy, and environmental assessment, this review provides a comprehensive framework to support the development and industrial adoption of next‐generation biodegradable stone paper.