Virginia Tech researchers develop biodegradable bioplastics from food waste

Daniela Castillo Monagas

Researchers at Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences are working to develop biodegradable bioplastics from food waste, with the goal of reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainability.

“By creating cost-effective bioplastics that naturally decompose, we can reduce plastic pollution on land and in oceans and address significant issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and economic losses associated with food waste,” said lead researcher Zhiwu “Drew” Wang, associate professor in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering and director of the Center for Applied Water Research and Innovation.

The pilot project will develop and demonstrate a modular bioprocessing system to produce biodegradable bioplastics from food waste. The researchers will collaborate with experts from various fields, including biology, engineering, and food science, to purify polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and create high-value bioplastic products.

The team is exploring the possibility of using biodegradable bioplastics in various applications, including home compostable packaging. This approach has gained popularity in recent years as consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of single-use plastics.

The project is being funded by a $2.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and involves collaboration with undergraduate and graduate students. The researchers aim to create bioplastics that are viable alternatives to traditional plastics and can be used in everyday products without harming the environment.

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The development of biodegradable bioplastics has the potential to address significant environmental issues, including plastic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By converting food waste into bioplastics, this project could contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.

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