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Project title

Bioplastics: An Evaluation of Sustainability

Primary Funding Agency

Irish Research Council

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Environmental Protection Agency

Lead Organisation

National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)

Lead Applicant

Cherrelle Johnson

Project Abstract

Billions of tonnes of fossil fuel-based plastic have been generated globally with over two-thirds being disposed of in landfills or ending up in the natural environment. It is estimated that only 9% of plastics ever produced have been recycled. The accumulation and continued production of oil-based plastics has been linked to adverse effects on human and environment health and is largely considered unsustainable. Ireland is the largest producer of plastic waste in the EU per capita and currently lacks the technical and industrial capabilities on the island to manage plastic resources effectively. Bio-based plastic (bioplastic) is a potentially viable and sustainable alternative. Being produced from renewable resources (e.g., maize or sugarcane) or food waste, bioplastics emit less greenhouse gases (GHG) than their traditional counterparts, and could contribute to the transition to a more circular economy in Ireland. However, bioplastics are still plastics and contain the same traits or properties of conventional plastics, and research has shown that bioplastics can result in higher negative environmental impacts, particularly during the production phase. The production of bioplastics is not a recently discovered technology, however, the manufacture of bioplastics has grown exponentially in recent years to meet the market demand for greener products. Research into the overall sustainability of bioplastics from ‘cradle-to-grave’ (i.e. extraction of raw materials to disposal) is a research area that has yet to be extensively explored. This research aims to investigate the long-term sustainability of bioplastics and their impacts on environmental health. Through a comprehensive literature review, field trails, and Life Cycle Assessments of bioplastics, this study will evaluate bioplastics for sustainability credentials and safety for the environment when compared to conventional plastics.

Grant Approved

�82,080.00

Research Hub

Green and Circular Economy

Research Theme

n/a

Start Date

01/09/2022

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/08/2025