Bioresources and their significance

Bioresources are the naturally occurring materials which are sustainably renewable and biodegradable. A variety of bioresources are present on the planet earth, which mainly includes agricultural crops, waste from agriculture, forest and various industries, marine resources like fishes and aquatic crustaceans, weeds, grasses, etc. All these bioresources are of huge significance and can be used as raw material or feedstocks for the production of a wide range of valuable products that are economically and industrially important. The bioresources are considered as one of the centers of bioeconomy. On the one hand, these are responsible for the generation of employment and sufficient income to individuals and industries that collectively contribute to the economy of the nation. However, on the other hand, overexploitation of bioresources can generate adverse impacts on the environment and can destroy the environment. Similarly, improper utilization of these bioresources can have adverse social and economic effects. The main aim of the present chapter is to discuss the type, composition, and properties of various bioresources and their applications in the production of a wide range of high-value products. Moreover, different environmental, social, and economic impacts due to the utilization of bioresources are also discussed.