Recent advances in biodegradable membranes for oil spill remediation: mechanisms, fabrication, and challenges

Oil spills are highly destructive to marine ecosystems and biodiversity. In addition to the economic loss, there is a dire need for effective, efficient, and sustainable remediation methods to counter the ecological effects of oil spills into open waters. Biodegradable membranes made from cellulose and polylactic acid present a novel alternative to traditional methods. These naturally hydrophobic-oleophilic membranes degrade oil molecules into non-toxic by-products and reduce environmental pollution damage. Fabrication techniques such as electrospinning and phase separation further enhance their efficiency. However, challenges remain in balancing durability with biodegradability and scaling up production. This review highlights the development, challenges, and future perspectives of biodegradable membranes to improve oil spill remediation and promote global environmental sustainability.