Module #1 Introduction to Biodegradable Plastics Overview of biodegradable plastics, their types, and importance in reducing plastic waste
Module #2 History of Biodegradable Plastics Development and evolution of biodegradable plastics, their early applications, and current trends
Module #3 Types of Biodegradable Plastics Classification, properties, and examples of bioplastics, including PLA, PBAT, PHB, and more
Module #4 Advantages of Biodegradable Plastics Benefits of biodegradable plastics, including reduced plastic waste, lower carbon footprint, and increased sustainability
Module #5 Challenges and Limitations of Biodegradable Plastics Technical, economic, and environmental challenges associated with biodegradable plastics, including scalability and infrastructure
Module #6 Environmental Impact of Traditional Plastics The problem of traditional plastics, including pollution, litter, and harm to marine life
Module #7 Biodegradation Processes Microbial degradation, enzymatic degradation, and photodegradation:mechanisms and factors affecting biodegradation
Module #8 Composting and Anaerobic Digestion The role of composting and anaerobic digestion in managing biodegradable plastic waste
Module #9 Marine Environmental Impact The effects of biodegradable plastics on marine ecosystems, including microplastics and bioaccumulation
Module #10 Soil and Terrestrial Environmental Impact The effects of biodegradable plastics on soil health, fertility, and terrestrial ecosystems
Module #11 Air and Water Pollution The impact of biodegradable plastics on air and water quality, including the release of volatile organic compounds
Module #12 Human Health and Toxicity The potential health risks associated with biodegradable plastics, including toxicity and chemical leaching
Module #13 Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Biodegradable Plastics Evaluating the environmental impact of biodegradable plastics using LCA and comparing with traditional plastics
Module #14 Regulations and Standards International regulations, standards, and certifications for biodegradable plastics, including compostability and biodegradability claims
Module #15 Case Studies:Successful Implementations Real-world examples of successful biodegradable plastic implementations, including packaging, textiles, and disposable products
Module #16 Case Studies:Challenges and Failures Lessons learned from unsuccessful biodegradable plastic implementations and challenges faced during adoption
Module #17 Designing for Biodegradability Design principles and considerations for creating biodegradable products, including material selection and product lifecycle
Module #18 End-of-Life Management Strategies for managing biodegradable plastic waste at the end of its life, including recycling, upcycling, and waste-to-energy
Module #19 Scaling Up Biodegradable Plastics Addressing the challenges of scaling up biodegradable plastic production, including infrastructure, cost, and supply chain management
Module #20 Public Perception and Education Raising awareness and understanding of biodegradable plastics among consumers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders
Module #21 Economic and Business Implications The business case for biodegradable plastics, including cost-benefit analysis, market trends, and investment opportunities
Module #22 Research and Development Advances in biodegradable plastic research, including new materials, technologies, and applications
Module #23 Comparing Biodegradable Plastics to Alternative Solutions Evaluating biodegradable plastics against other sustainable packaging options, such as paper, glass, and reusable materials
Module #24 Future Outlook and Opportunities Predicting the future of biodegradable plastics, including emerging trends, innovations, and potential breakthroughs
Module #25 Course Wrap-Up & Conclusion Planning next steps in Environmental Impact of Biodegradable Plastics career
