Waste to Bioplastics: How Close are we to Sustainable PHA Production?

In response to the growing demand for sustainable materials and stricter environmental regulations, the use of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) as an alternative to conventional plastics has gained significant attention. This comprehensive review examines recent advancements in PHA production, focusing on the microorganisms involved, production processes utilizing different waste streams, and the use of mixed microbial cultures (MMCs). Bio-based PHA production, particularly using low-cost carbon sources with MMCs, is receiving increased attention.

 However, challenges such as low production yield and inconsistency of biopolymers remain. Promising approaches to address these challenges include bioaugmentation, metabolic engineering, and cost-effective downstream processing. By exploring these strategies, the review highlights potential pathways to overcome hurdles and facilitate commercial PHA production from waste streams.