Biofuels and bioplastics from aquatic waste: opportunities and challenges

Aquatic waste, often considered an environmental burden, holds immense potential as a renewable resource for sustainable energy and materials. This chapter explores the dual role of aquatic biomass, particularly algae, along with fishery by-products, crustacean shells, and aquaculture residues, in producing biofuels and bioplastics. Algae, as a marine-based sustainable bioresource, offer carbon-neutral biofuels and biodegradable plastics, addressing challenges such as fossil fuel dependency, plastic pollution, and water scarcity. Their ability to grow in saline and wastewater environments also contributes to carbon sequestration and water remediation. In parallel, other aquatic wastes provide valuable feedstocks for bio-based plastics and fuel production, advancing circular bioeconomy goals. Despite technological and economic challenges, innovations in bioconversion technologies, bioreactor design, and supportive policies are accelerating the viability of aquatic waste valorization. This chapter highlights the science, current developments, and prospects of transforming aquatic waste into high-value biofuels and bioplastics for a sustainable and resilient future.