Polymer Biocomposites Across Strategic Sectors: Current Applications, Regulatory Frameworks, and Design Strategies for 2050—A Review

Abstract

Polymer biocomposites (PBCs) are increasingly regarded as viable alternatives to conventional synthetic polymers by combining reduced environmental impact with tunable mechanical and functional performance. Their development is shaped by carbon reduction targets, circular economy frameworks, and sector‐specific regulatory requirements. This review provides an integrated and comparative analysis of current applications, regulatory frameworks, and design strategies for PBCs, beginning with policies, standards, and technical requirements governing material design, use, and end‐of‐life management. Recent developments reported in the literature are discussed, and technological limitations associated with industrial implementation are identified based on sector‐specific requirements in automotive, construction, and packaging. Material design strategies are analyzed, including bio‐based and recycled polymer matrices, natural and recycled reinforcements, biogenic fillers, interfacial engineering, compatibilization approaches, and manufacturing routes used for PBCs. Finally, technical, regulatory, economic, and manufacturing barriers affecting large‐scale implementation are discussed together with strategies supporting improved mechanical stability, process reproducibility, circularity, and implementation of PBCs by 2050.