Why in News?
As countries aim to reduce dependence on Fossil fuel–based imports and meet climate goals, biomaterials are emerging as a key pillar of sustainable manufacturing and the bioeconomy.
Description:
What are Biomaterials?
These are materials produced from renewable biological feedstocks such as crops, agricultural residues, or microorganisms, designed to substitute conventional fossil-derived materials in industrial applications.
Classification:
1. Based on Compatibility with Existing Systems:
- Drop-in biomaterials such as Bio-PET (bio-based Polyethylene Terephthalate) and Bio-PE (bio-based Polyethylene) are chemically similar to conventional plastics and can be used within existing manufacturing and recycling systems.
- Non-drop-in biomaterials like PLA (Polylactic Acid) and PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates) have different chemical properties and therefore require separate processing and dedicated composting or disposal infrastructure.
2. Based on Use:
- Packaging, Textiles and fibres, Construction materials, Agricultural inputs, Industrial chemicals
Why Biomaterials Matter:
- Import substitution: Reduces fossil-fuel and petrochemical imports.
- Climate mitigation: Lower lifecycle greenhouse-gas emissions.
- Waste utilisation: Converts agricultural and biomass residues into value-added products.
- Rural income diversification: New markets for farmers and bio-feedstock suppliers.
- Industrial competitiveness: Supports sustainable manufacturing.
India’s Biomaterials Sector is still dependent on foreign technology for large-scale conversion of feedstocks into market-ready products.
Significance:
Biomaterials can simultaneously address energy security, environmental sustainability, industrial growth, and rural livelihoods, positioning them as a strategic pillar of India’s green transition.
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