Towards environmental sustainability through the production of tailored bioplastics

Plastic pollution from fossil fuel-derived materials has become a pressing environmental and public health issue, driving urgent demand for sustainable alternatives. Conventional plastics can take centuries to degrade and, instead of breaking down completely, fragment into micro- and nanoplastics that are now found in oceans, rivers, soil and atmosphere. These particles have been detected in drinking water, food and animal tissues, raising serious concerns about their impact on human health and ecosystems. Millions of tons of plastic enter the oceans each year, forming massive debris patches that accumulate along coastlines. Many organisms mistakenly ingest or become entangled in plastic, causing injury, starvation and often death. Birds, turtles, fish and marine mammals are among the most affected. On land, plastic waste clogs waterways, pollutes landscapes and overwhelms waste management systems, especially in regions lacking adequate recycling infrastructure. The development of bioplastics-materials derived from renewable sources and designed to biodegrade naturally-represents a promising path forward. Bioplastics aim to reduce dependence on fossil resources, minimize environmental persistence and offer tailored properties for specific applications. Transitioning to bio-based alternatives is not only a scientific and technological challenge but also a crucial step towards safeguarding environmental health and ensuring a more sustainable future. In this context, this 'In the Limelight' issue of FEBS Open Bio presents five review articles focusing on the production, characterization and biodegradation of novel bioplastics from diverse renewable sources. Together, the results may contribute to reduced plastic pollution, offering a more sustainable and conscious approach to material design.