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Biodegradable Polymers

AUTHORS:
Dr.Vasanthi Swami (Associate professor ,Bharati Vidyapeeth)
Sarah Nazimuddin Shaikh (Under graduate student,Bharati Vidyapeeth)

INTRODUCTION
The same durability properties which make plastics ideal for many applications such as in packaging, building materials and commodities, as well as in hygiene products, can lead to waste-sposal problems in the case of traditional petroleum- derived plastics, as these materials are not readily biodegradable and because of their resistance to microbial degradation, they accumulate in the environment. In addition in recent times oil prices have increased markedly. These facts have helped to stimulate interest in biodegradable polymers and in particular biodegradable biopolymers. Biodegradable plastics and polymers were first introduced in 1980s. There are many sources of biodegradable plastics, from synthetic to natural polymers. Natural polymers are available in large quantities from renewable sources, while synthetic polymers are produced from non- renewable petroleum resources. The alarming awareness related to environmental and waste management issues around the universe, status and negative effects of fossil resources, are some of the reasons why biodegradable polymers and the need for their usage is increasingly promoted for sustainable development. Moreover, there is no sustainable economic development without a sustainable environment. Researchers universally have proven that fossil resources pose a serious threat to existence of humans, plants and animals by the generation of greenhouse gases and CFC’s. Critically observing the scenario, there is no need to exaggerate the importance of the safe and healthy environment to universal sustainable development. It is a prerequisite on which human and other living things existence lies. Biodegradable biopolymers from research results do not pose such a threat to the environment and its inhabitants compared to fossil based polymers, and therefore, there is need for biodegradable biopolymers universally.