A tribute to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid excellency and the myriad of novel polyesters, as well as polyamides, among other polycondensates, is comprehensively paid.

Polyesters from renewable resources are an expanding area with a burgeoning scientific activity, nevertheless little has been reviewed about this particular class of polymers. The present appraisal intends to contribute to fill this literature gap by reviewing recent aspects related to the most promising renewable-based polyesters. Emphasis will be placed on bio-based polyesters that, given their comparable properties, may replace polymers derived from fossil fuel feedstock, and on bio-based polyesters with completely innovative properties for novel applications. Furthermore, the sources of renewable monomers will also be reviewed, together with the most relevant eco-friendly synthetic approaches used in polycondensation reactions leading to polyesters.

Proteins display an essential role in numerous natural systems due to their structural and biological properties. Given their unique properties, proteins have been thoroughly investigated in the last few decades, offering a myriad of solutions for the development of innovative biomaterials, including films, foams, composites and gels, in particular for biomedical applications such as drug delivery systems, biosensors and scaffolds for tissue regeneration. In this context, this review intends to give a general overview of the potential of protein based materials within the sustainable polymers context, covering aspects ranging from protein types, selection/isolation to properties of protein based (nano)materials and biomedical applications, passing through preparation methodologies of materials.