We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Status quo and sector readiness for (bio)plastic food and beverage packaging in the 4IR
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examined the readiness of the food and beverage packaging sector to transition to bioplastics and biodegradable materials during the era of Industry 4.0. The paper found that while interest is growing, technical, regulatory, and cost barriers still limit widespread adoption. Addressing these challenges is necessary to reduce the massive amount of single-use plastic waste from food packaging.
Single-use plastics emanating from the food and beverage industry are polluting the environment, and there is increasing public pressure to find ‘green’ solutions to plastic pollution. The introduction of more bio-based and biodegradable plastics (possibly manufactured by disruptive technologies), increased plastic recycling, and enhanced degradation of plastics (micro, meso, and macro) in the environment can holistically contribute to solving the problem for future generations. In order to inform future research, it is imperative that robust background data and information are available. This review provides details about the volumes and categories of food and beverage packaging manufactured and recycled, and available data (qualitative and quantitative) on environmental plastic pollution in South Africa, and to a lesser extent, in Europe and globally. In addition, current and future trends and technologies for recycling, enhanced degradation, and manufacturing of plastics are discussed, with an emphasis on the manufacture of bioplastics. Significance: Plastic pollution needs to be tackled through a holistic combination of reduced use, enhanced recycling efforts, public education about littering, replacement of selected conventional plastics by degradable alternatives, and enhanced degradation of plastics in the environment.
More Papers Like This
An Overview of Plastic Waste Generation and Management in Food Packaging Industries
AI summary Read the abstract
This review provides an overview of plastic waste generation and management practices in the food packaging industry globally. Researchers found that packaging accounts for approximately half of all plastic waste, with demand continuing to rise alongside population growth. The study evaluates current disposal methods, recycling challenges, and regulatory approaches while highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives to reduce plastic packaging waste entering the environment.
Bio-based and Sustainable Food Packaging Technology: Relevance, Challenges and Prospects
AI summary Read the abstract
A review assessed bio-based and sustainable food packaging technologies, evaluating their relevance as replacements for conventional plastic packaging that generates microplastic pollution. The study identifies the most promising materials and the barriers to scaling up plastic-free food packaging.
Biodegradable biopolymers for active packaging: demand, development and directions
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines how biodegradable biopolymers can be used for active food packaging, addressing both plastic waste and food waste challenges while meeting industry demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
Acceptability and Societal Impact of the Introduction of Bioplastics as Novel Environmentally Friendly Packaging Materials in Ireland
AI summary Read the abstract
Interviews with packaging industry stakeholders revealed why consumers and businesses are slow to adopt bioplastics, including cost, performance concerns, and unclear environmental benefits. Overcoming these barriers is important for transitioning away from petroleum plastics that contribute to microplastic pollution.
Expanding Policy for Biodegradable Plastic Products and Market Dynamics of Bio-Based Plastics: Challenges and Opportunities
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examined the policy landscape and market dynamics for biodegradable and bio-based plastics, highlighting growing regulatory interest but warning that without standardized biodegradability testing and clear labeling requirements, consumer and industrial adoption may create new environmental problems.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.