Plastic wastes on land and in oceans have become major societal issues. Articles in print, television, and social media about plastics waste issues and bans on plastic items are on the rise everywhere in the world. Most serious, is the issue relating to microplastics found in oceans and living systems. Against this backdrop, this lecture reviews concepts in designing for biodegradability as a solution for plastic waste issues. However, the term “biodegradable” is used in multiple fields and in differing context. This has led to much confusion, misperceptions and misleading claims in the marketplace.<br/>Dr. Ann-Christine Albertsson, the 2020 Anselme Payen Award winner is a pioneer in the field of biodegradable and biobased/renewable polymers and her extensive publications in this field has guided this and other researchers in this space. The main focus of the lecture is on the science of biodegradability and its value contribution towards an environmentally responsible end-of-life. The lecture articulates the Dos and Do Nots on assessing, reporting, and communicating biodegradability attributes. Certified, verifiable compostable plastics offers responsible end-of-life options for plastics waste in harmony with the circular economy model of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Composting defines the boundary conditions under which complete biodegradation (microbial utilization) of plastics needs to be validated using ASTM/ISO International Standards.<br/>Biobased plastics in which fossil carbon is replaced in part or completely by bio carbon offers the value proposition of a reduced carbon footprint, enhanced rural agrarian economies, and contributes to food security.

Is designing for biodegradality a solution to plastic wastes on land and in oceans

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.