Researchers have found a new way to produce sustainable and biodegradable baby diapers and sanitary pads using waste from the food and agriculture industries. These new materials could replace products containing plastic and can be disposed of or used as fertilizer without harming the environment. They note that protein-based materials biodegrade biologically within a few weeks after exposure to water or soil, potentially creating a new circular economy model. The research will be presented at the American Chemical Society’s spring meeting, highlighting the potential of these alternative materials.