Originally applied to natural resources, the term “sustainable” has come to refer to a set of procedures that allow resources to be used and maintained at specific rates. Later, the concept was applied to agriculture, indicating a shift in paradigm. The first of the economic framework’s sustainability principles is that changes in consumer behaviour should be forward-thinking.

Sustainable growth is a critical strategic goal of today’s global policy. The most well-known definition of sustainable development is “development that meets current needs without compromising future generations” (World Commission on Environment and Development). This appears to be a simple concept at the heart of the link between economic growth, environmental preservation, and social well-being. However, operationalisation of these ties presents a significant challenge for a wide range of stakeholders, including the government, non-governmental organisations, businesses, communities, and people.

When the term “sustainability” was first used in the context of human future, it rose to prominence as a normative concept. Sustainability, which was also on the agenda at the United Nations Conference on Human Environment, was defined as an approach that seeks to meet today’s needs in a way that ensures people’s satisfaction, and to achieve this by protecting natural resources while considering the interests of future generations. In later decades, the concept of sustainability was broadened in a variety of ways. Economic growth and development within the largest ecological boundaries were realised and sustained over time through reciprocal contact.

“Sustainable consumption” was defined as “consumption that meets basic needs while minimising the use of natural resources, toxic materials, waste emissions, and environmental pollutants throughout the life cycle of the product or service,” while still “introducing a better quality of life and greater use of services.”

Moreover, the broad definition of sustainability allows people with different points of view to find common ground. From the standpoint of the consumer, the rapidly expanding technology and production possibilities of the twenty-first century, on the one hand, deplete natural resources and increase environmental damage. As a result of this scenario, humanity suffers increasing harm.

Environmental consciousness has grown as a result of communication channels that have made customers more sensitive to social concerns and have begun to shift to products or services that are not harmful to the environment or people. Aside from environmental concerns, the concept of sustainable consumption encompasses a wide range of issues, including the preservation of natural resources, poverty alleviation, industrial efficiency, and the advancement of economic development, health, education, and overall quality of life.

The goals of sustainability are inscribed in three categories: economic prosperity, social equity, and environmental protection. Minimizing the plastics processes is critical to achieving well-improved and long-term results from biodegradable plastics. The primary goal of considering social economics and environmental sustainability in biodegradable plastics is resource management and effective environmental protection.