The journey of plastics: historical development, environmental challenges, and the emergence of bioplastics for single-use products

Stanley, Jade ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9802-1728; Culliton, David ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0225-2175; Jovani-Sancho, Antonio-Jonay ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7824-0501; Neves, Adriana Cunha ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9577-9894. 2025 The journey of plastics: historical development, environmental challenges, and the emergence of bioplastics for single-use products [in special issue: Green engineering for sustainable development] Eng, 6 (1), 17. 24, pp. 10.3390/eng6010017

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/eng6010017

Abstract/Summary

This paper explores the historical development of conventional plastics, tracing their evolution from early forms to their pervasive use in modern society. Its observations include the rise of mass plastic production during World War II and the post-war development, showcasing plastics’ economic and societal impact. The environmental repercussions of plastic pollution have led to increased global awareness and calls for sustainable alternatives. The emergence of bioplastics is investigated, including their classification, properties, applications, and challenges in scaling. This paper emphasises the urgency of adopting bioplastics for a sustainable future and discusses efforts towards homogenisation and standardisation across global markets.

Item Type:	Publication - Article
Digital Object Identifier (DOI):	10.3390/eng6010017
UKCEH and CEH Sections/Science Areas:	Surface Atmosphere Interactions and Effects (2025-)
ISSN:	2673-4117
Additional Information. Not used in RCUK Gateway to Research.:	Open Access paper - full text available via Official URL link.
Additional Keywords:	plastic, bioplastic, plastic pollution, environmental
NORA Subject Terms:	Ecology and Environment
Date made live:	22 Jan 2025 14:21 +0 (UTC)
URI:	https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/538785

Item Type:

Publication - Article

Digital Object Identifier (DOI):

10.3390/eng6010017

UKCEH and CEH Sections/Science Areas:

Surface Atmosphere Interactions and Effects (2025-)

ISSN:

2673-4117

Additional Information. Not used in RCUK Gateway to Research.:

Open Access paper - full text available via Official URL link.

Additional Keywords:

plastic, bioplastic, plastic pollution, environmental