The petro-based plastics which were lauded during past for having facilitated globalization, are now being condemned for generating a large environment-footprint. As the plastic menace takes huge dimensions in the landfills and open areas, the convenience of urban way of living continues to drive its market. Keeping in view the plastic pollution, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) also resonate the need for safe plastic waste handling. Out of 17 goals mentioned in Agenda for Sustainable development, 12 goals are impacted by plastic handling in either the direct or indirect way. To reduce the plastic trash, an environment-friendly alternative may be through the ‘bio-plastics’. These plastics are obtained from biodegradable and renewable biological sources. Bio-plastics therefore, have a smaller e-footprint and work well with waste handling set ups to promote green eco-friendly disposal. However, their biodegradation is not free of emissions. They generate Green House Gases (GHGs) or emissions during End of Life (EoL) processes such as landfilling. The biogenic carbon which is released from the bio-based, biodegradable plastics adds to the complexity of bio-plastics. The new innovations and policies focus on source of plastic and its end of life. The present review focuses on the novel option in bio-plastics – seaweed-based bio-plastics. Seaweed resource has potential as a sustainable alternative to bio-plastics due to its low water footprint and land footprint. Besides, the novel polysaccharides such as alginates and carrageenans in the biomass have a huge potential in replacing packaging material. It also brings forth the need to work on strengthening the seaweed plastic for more durability and functionality. Attention is also drawn to innovating green disposal strategies and need for policies to beat plastic pollution.

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An official publication of Society for Environment and Development (SED India)