Opportunities for the development of cassava waste biorefineries for the production of polyhydroxyalkanoates in Sub-Saharan Africa

The use of plastic materials is forecasted to double by 2030 in Africa. increase demand presents an opportunity develop biopolymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) instead petroleum-based plastics. However, the high cost PHA production closely linked feedstock price, which will hinder their deployment. On other hand, Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) economy heavily reliant on agriculture, with cassava being one most important crops. Cassava industries SSA produce 146 Mtpa cassava, generating estimated 40 waste, 55% goes landfill or incinerated. waste a carbon source for production, therefore, represents decrease costs bioplastics while contributing management solutions. This review critically analyses potential developing biorefineries SSA, region where industry nascent stage. We conclude that adequate resource can also contribute toward reduction GHG emissions whilst decreasing dependence fossil fuels. identify PHA-overproducing strains capable utilizing substrates more efficiently and show economic attractiveness using biomass resources circular framing. Finally, we make recommendations next steps needed pave way sustainable development, job creation industrial activity principles.