Bamboo cellulose fiber in plastic substitution — Policy, performance, and industrial perspectives

The global plastic pollution crisis, driven by the persistence of petroleum-based plastics, necessitates a transition to sustainable alternatives. Bamboo cellulose fiber (BCF) has emerged as a promising solution, supported by the “Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastics” (BSP) initiative of China and aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This systematic review evaluates the potential of BCF in terms of policy relevance, material performance, and industrial scalability. Bamboo is characterized by rapid growth, high biomass yield, timber formation within 4–5 years, and a carbon sequestration capacity of 8.13 Mg/ha/yr. When processed from this sustainable feedstock, BCF exhibits high mechanical strength (tensile modulus: 35–50 GPa) and complete biodegradability within 3–6 months. A comparison of extraction methods shows that chemical processes enable rapid fiber separation but generate hazardous by-products, whereas mechanical methods preserve native lignin structures and reduce carbon emissions by approximately 40 %. The plastic-replacement potential of BCF can be realized through multiple application pathways, including BCF-petroleum composites, BCF-biodegradable composites, and pure BCF products, each offering distinct advantages. BCF materials present a high-performance and eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastics by combining cost benefits, reduced global warming potential, and robust mechanical properties. Substituting 5 % of global plastic production with BCF could eliminate 20.7 million tons of persistent plastic waste annually. A comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) demonstrates the substantial advantages of BCF materials. To fully realize this potential, future efforts must prioritize technological refinement and the development of circular ecosystems around BCF utilization. • Mechanism of BCF’s superior strength via hierarchical structure was revealed. • Chemical and physical extraction methods of BCF are reviewed for performance impact. • BCF offers full biodegradability (3–6 months) and high tensile strength (695.5 MPa). • Replacing 5 % of plastic with BCF could cut 20.7 Mt of plastic waste annually. • Optimizing BCF utilization is a pivotal pathway for BSP policy implementation.