Impact Factor (2025): 6.9
DOI Prefix: 10.47001/IRJIET
Biodegradable
plastics present a compelling option compared to traditional petroleum-based
plastics, providing a means to mitigate environmental pollution and promote
sustainable material utilization. Despite the global interest and innovation
surrounding bioplastics like polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates
(PHAs), and starch-based polymers, their uptake in developing nations is
alarmingly minimal. This investigation analyzes the various socioeconomic and
environmental obstacles that hinder the adoption of biodegradable plastics in
low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). By conducting a thorough examination
of scholarly articles, policy documents, and case studies from areas including
South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia, this paper highlights
significant challenges: elevated production and import expenses, insufficient
local manufacturing capabilities, a deficit in public awareness and education,
and inadequately developed waste management systems that struggle to process
biodegradable materials efficiently. Moreover, the lack of explicit policy
guidelines, economic incentives, and uniform labeling standards undermines
market confidence and complicates regulatory enforcement. The results highlight
the critical necessity for governmental action, funding in innovative studies
and local manufacturing technologies, as well as the encouragement of
decentralized waste management approaches. By overcoming these obstacles,
developing nations can more efficiently shift to sustainable plastic alternatives
and minimize their environmental impact while promoting local economic
opportunities in the green materials sector.
Country : India
IRJIET, Volume 9, Issue 8, August 2025 pp. 66-74