Used primarily as a monomer in the production of polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable and bioactive thermoplastic. It enables the synthesis of high molecular weight polymers through ring-opening polymerization, making it essential in manufacturing eco-friendly plastics for packaging, medical devices, and 3D printing filaments. Its role in creating resorbable sutures and implants in biomedical applications is significant due to the controlled degradation properties of the resulting polymers. Also utilized in drug delivery systems where gradual release is required.