Plant Products in Bioenergy Production, Medicine, and Consumer Products

Abstract

This literature review aims to identify and explore different applications of plant products in bioenergy production and industrial applications within the medical and manufacturing industries. Historically, over-reliance on fossil fuels has had a detrimental effect on our environment and fostered concerns over global carbon emissions, causing subsequent climate change. Biofuels serve as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. There are four main categories of biofuel, each with unique benefits and challenges. Bioenergy production techniques such as carbon sequestration and hydrochar present low-cost, renewable energy solutions. In the medical field, plant products can be used in biomaterials to facilitate medical innovation, replacing synthetic medical equipment. Cellulose, chitosan, and alginate are a few examples of promising plant-biomaterials being investigated to advance medicine. Integration of sustainable consumer products in daily life processes has been a desired prospect for a long time. Similar to the medical field, the application of plant products in manufacturing ranges widely. Plant biomass used as feedstocks has the potential to replace high-emitting fuels. Packaging materials made from post-consumer plant products contain superior biodegradable characteristics, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional packaging materials. Chemically altered nutrition additives can be replaced by natural, plant-produced preservatives that both demonstrate positive health benefits and provide a longer shelf life. As consumers increasingly prioritize health and environmental sustainability, the demand for plant-based substitutes continues to rise, resulting in innovation across the food industry; thus promoting an increased examination of existing food labeling and additive policies. This research highlights the critical and expanding role of plant products as sustainable and effective substitutes in bioenergy, medicine, and consumer products.