1. Overview of plant polymers : resources, demands, and sustainability -- 2. Overview of poly(lactic acid) -- 3. Applications of poly(lactic acid) -- 4. The state of the art of polymers from renewable resources -- 5. Polymeric biomaterials -- 6. Biodegradable polymers and polymer blends -- 7. Starch : major sources, properties and applications as thermoplastic materials -- 8. Cellulose-based composites and nanocomposites -- 9. Synthesis, properties, environmental and biomedical applications of polylactic acid -- 10. Compostable polymer materials: definitions, structures, and methods of preparation -- 11. Biodegradability testing of compostable polymer materials -- 12. Pressure-sensitive adhesives, elastomers, and coatings from plant oil -- 13. Biopolymer films and composite coatings -- 14. Biopolymers in controlled-release delivery systems -- 15. Hydrocolloids and medicinal chemistry applications -- 16. Natural polymers in tissue engineering applications -- 17. Fabrication of tissue engineering scafolds