Packaging through the ages: A heuristic journey from leaves to plastics to cellulosic fibers and smart technologies

Packaging has long been a vital way to protect both food and non-food items from contamination during storage, distribution, and transportation. In ancient times, natural materials such as leaves and animal skins were primarily used for packaging, which had minimal environmental impact. Over time, materials such as glass, metal, and paper emerged, gradually affecting ecosystems. However, the introduction of synthetic, petroleum-based plastics in the 20th century marked a significant shift in packaging, transforming the packaging industry while also posing threats to natural resources, ecosystems, and human health. This review traces the evolution of packaging materials from primitive methods to modern techniques. It highlights the transition from traditional and early industrial packaging materials to today's petroleum-based synthetic plastics. It also discusses current research on natural, non-toxic biopolymers, such as cellulose, starch, chitosan, lignin, and proteins as sustainable alternatives, along with future possibilities for biodegradable packaging made from biowaste that incorporates active and intelligent features. The growing popularity of biodegradable packaging reflects an increasing demand for environmentally responsible options. The review also highlights the valorization of biowaste and discusses the role of biodegradable, biopolymer-based packaging in promoting circular bioeconomy practices. Findings suggest a future focused on reducing carbon footprints, enhancing sustainability, and creating packaging systems that are both functional and eco-friendly.