exceeded natural levels. The rapid depletion of crude oil and
the mounting adverse effects on the environment, accompanied
by their increasing rates of consumption are driving forces for
alternatives to petroleum mineral-based products and processes.
Bio-refinery concept, where biomass is converted into fuel, heat,
energy and value-added chemical products through an integrated
process, has been introduced as a consequence of these new challenges
(Kaparaju, Serrano, Thomsen, Kongjan, & Angelidaki, 2009).
Biopolymers with their biodegradability, eco-friendly manufacturing
processes and vast range of applications are important
alternatives to non-sustainable products and can be produced
through bio-refineries as part of integrated bioprocesses.
Biopolymers in nature are produced by a range of microorganisms
and plants (Marjadi & Dharaiya, 2011). Microbial biopolymers
are produced either directly via fermentation or by chemical
polymerisation of monomers, which are in turn produced
through fermentation. Biopolymers produced by microorganisms
require specific nutrients and controlled environmental conditions
(Marjadi & Dharaiya, 2011). Many biopolymers are biocompatible;
they have no adverse effects on biological systems. It is