Harnessing CO₂ for the Development of Biodegradable Polymers: A Review of Innovations in Green Chemistry

The increasing environmental impact of plastic waste has prompted the exploration of sustainable alternatives, particularly CO₂-based biodegradable polymers. These polymers, synthesized from CO₂, offer an innovative approach to both reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating plastic pollution. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in CO₂-derived biodegradable polymers, with a focus on catalyst development, polymerization methods, and material properties. Various catalysts, including metal-based, organic, photocatalysts, and enzymes, are evaluated for their effectiveness in CO₂ activation and polymer synthesis. The structural, thermal, and mechanical properties of CO₂-based polymers are discussed, with comparisons to conventional petroleum-based plastics to highlight their potential advantages and limitations. Additionally, the biodegradability of these materials is assessed through soil burial, enzymatic degradation, and hydrolysis studies. Challenges in scalability, catalyst efficiency, and cost-effectiveness are also examined. Despite these challenges, CO₂-based biodegradable polymers hold significant promise for reducing plastic pollution, particularly in short-lifetime applications. This review concludes by discussing the future potential of CO₂-based polymers and the need for continued research to enhance their commercial viability and environmental impact.