Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) as a building block for a circular economy

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has been considered a potential alternative to some of the petroleum-based polymers and an upcoming circular green material with little environmental impact. This chapter covers the introduction and production of PLA, its physical properties, and its benefits, followed by the creation of functional PLA and its applications. To further understand the sustainability of PLA, life cycle assessments (LCAs) and the more recent strategies of end-of-life approaches will be discussed. Finally, the future perspective and outlook of this circular biopolymer will provide insights into a future sustainable circular economy.