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Processes
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Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes"
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Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes"

A special issue of Processes (ISSN 2227-9717). This special issue belongs to the section "Environmental and Green Processes".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 December 2025 | Viewed by 21111

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Antoni Sánchez

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
Interests: biological treatment of organic waste (composting and anaerobic digestion); solid-state fermentation to convert wastes into bioproducts and nanotechnology for environmental remediation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In a time when several environmental concerns are held worldwide, it is mandatory to find novel approaches that allow us to reach the Sustainable Development Goals proposed by the United Nations a number of years ago. These goals are global, but they require specific technological processes to be sufficiently met. This Special Issue aims to act as a platform for presenting new advances related to environmental and green processes, in which nature-based solutions, cleaner alternatives, and low-impact solutions must be reviewed in the context of the circular economy. Transversal sustainability studies, in terms of environmental and economic impact, will also be welcome for submission.

This Special Issue is interested in a wide list of topics, including, but not limited to, the following:

  • The Biological treatment of organic waste: composting and anaerobic digestion;
  • The circular bioeconomy: bioproducts from residuals, side streams and by-products;
  • Water cleaning and regeneration, with special emphasis on novel waste-derived adsorbents,
  • Wastewater treatment and regeneration: biological advanced strategies,
  • Sources of renewable energy: biofuels, thermal treatment for waste streams, and other strategies;
  • Transversal studies: Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) and Techno-Economical Analyses (TEAs) of green processes.

Prof. Dr. Antoni Sánchez
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Processes is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • composting
  • anaerobic digestion
  • water and wastewater treatment
  • renewable energy
  • life cycle assessment
  • techno-economical analysis

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (9 papers)

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Review

28 pages, 1129 KiB  
Review
Metal-Based Nanoparticles as Nanopesticides: Opportunities and Challenges for Sustainable Crop Protection
by Puji Shandila, Tunjung Mahatmanto and Jue-Liang Hsu
Processes 2025, 13(5), 1278; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13051278 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 552
Abstract
Metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs) are gaining attention as promising components of nanopesticides, offering innovative solutions to enhance agricultural pest management while addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional pesticides. MNPs, such as silver, copper, zinc, nickel, gold, iron, aluminum, and titanium, exhibit unique nanoscale properties. [...] Read more.
Metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs) are gaining attention as promising components of nanopesticides, offering innovative solutions to enhance agricultural pest management while addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional pesticides. MNPs, such as silver, copper, zinc, nickel, gold, iron, aluminum, and titanium, exhibit unique nanoscale properties. These properties enable the formulation of MNPs for controlled and sustained release, thereby reducing application frequency and minimizing environmental runoff. This controlled release mechanism not only improves pest management efficacy but also reduces risks to non-target organisms and beneficial species, aligning with the principles of sustainable crop protection. This review examines nanopesticides based on their specific targets, such as nanoinsecticide, nanobactericide, nanofungicide, nanonematicide, and nanoviricide. It also explores the mechanisms of action of metal-based nanoparticles, including physical disruption, chemical interactions, and biological processes. Additionally, the review details how MNPs compromise cellular integrity through mechanisms such as membrane damage, DNA disruption, mitochondrial impairment, and protein denaturation. Despite these advantages, significant challenges remain, particularly concerning the environmental impact of MNPs, their long-term effects on soil health and ecosystem dynamics, and potential risks to human safety. Addressing these challenges is crucial for realizing the full potential of MNPs in sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes")
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23 pages, 3123 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Cellulose Nanocrystal Production from Green Methods
by Eliana Paola Dagnino, Nanci Ehman and María Cristina Area
Processes 2025, 13(3), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13030790 - 8 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1047
Abstract
The outstanding properties of nanocellulose have led to a wide range of applications in packaging, construction, medicine, electronics, cosmetics, environmental solutions, and the food industry. Specifically, cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) have demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, adaptable surface chemistry, low density, optical capabilities, biodegradability, renewability, and [...] Read more.
The outstanding properties of nanocellulose have led to a wide range of applications in packaging, construction, medicine, electronics, cosmetics, environmental solutions, and the food industry. Specifically, cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) have demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, adaptable surface chemistry, low density, optical capabilities, biodegradability, renewability, and good mechanical properties. However, these unique characteristics depend on the raw material, processing, and post-treatment. New opportunities in CNC production are being explored based on unconventional resources and new, environmentally friendly production processes to replace highly polluting and inefficient conventional methods. This review evaluated the current methods for obtaining CNC from green processes, focusing on organic acids, enzymes, mechanical, oxidative, and radiation-based methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes")
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20 pages, 2815 KiB  
Review
The Potential of Biogenic Materials as Sustainable and Environmentally Benign Alternatives to Conventional Adsorbents for Dyes Removal: A Review
by Sonia Mihai, Andreea Bondarev and Mihaela Necula
Processes 2025, 13(2), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13020589 - 19 Feb 2025
Viewed by 659
Abstract
The dyeing industry plays a substantial role in environmental pollution, primarily through the release of wastewater that contains a variety of chemicals into aquatic ecosystems. Synthetic dyes play a crucial role in numerous sectors, including textiles, tanning, food production and pharmaceuticals. However, the [...] Read more.
The dyeing industry plays a substantial role in environmental pollution, primarily through the release of wastewater that contains a variety of chemicals into aquatic ecosystems. Synthetic dyes play a crucial role in numerous sectors, including textiles, tanning, food production and pharmaceuticals. However, the effluents generated by industries that utilize these dyes are regarded as detrimental to both the environment and human health. Additionally, wastewater may include a range of chemical additives utilized during the dyeing process, including fixing agents, surfactants and pH adjusters. Various techniques for dye remediation have been extensively studied. Nevertheless, effective and economically viable methods for dye removal have yet to be fully developed. This paper emphasizes and provides an overview of the recent literature concerning the application of the most commonly accessible biogenic materials in the context of dye removal by the adsorption process. Various biogenic adsorbents sourced from plants, algae, microorganisms and biopolymers contain bioactive compounds that interact with the functional groups of dyes, leading to their attachment to the sorbent. By mechanical, thermal and chemical modifications of these materials, their adsorption capabilities could be increased. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes")
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26 pages, 1049 KiB  
Review
Application of Plant Extracts Rich in Anthocyanins in the Development of Intelligent Biodegradable Packaging: An Overview
by Stephany Vasconcellos Klaric, Amanda Galvão Maciel, Giordana Demaman Arend, Marcus Vinícius Tres, Marieli de Lima and Lenilton Santos Soares
Processes 2025, 13(1), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13010191 - 11 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1551
Abstract
Consumers are increasingly opting for food with high quality, in addition to practicality, as there are changes in time, habits and preferences, demanding that the food and packaging industries adapt to a new lifestyle. Intelligent packaging provides consumers with real-time information about the [...] Read more.
Consumers are increasingly opting for food with high quality, in addition to practicality, as there are changes in time, habits and preferences, demanding that the food and packaging industries adapt to a new lifestyle. Intelligent packaging provides consumers with real-time information about the quality and safety of packaged products. A critical analysis of the processes used to develop these packages was carried out. In this context, this review aims to analyze the concept of intelligent packaging, emphasizing the incorporation of extracts rich in anthocyanins, verifying its relationship with the development of new technologies and discussing current aspects of the scientific production process of the packaging. It was also highlighted that anthocyanin compounds are susceptible to pH variations. As an indicator of pH variation, a plant extract was necessary to incorporate into a solid matrix to immobilize the dye. The pH indicator film represents a simple and visual method to detect changes in food products. In this sense, technological processes and resources have been gaining prominence with the premise of offering quality, convenience and safety for consumers and companies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes")
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69 pages, 2104 KiB  
Review
Upcycling Coffee Waste: Key Industrial Activities for Advancing Circular Economy and Overcoming Commercialization Challenges
by Kanokthip Pongsiriyakul, Peerawat Wongsurakul, Worapon Kiatkittipong, Aerwadee Premashthira, Kulapa Kuldilok, Vesna Najdanovic-Visak, Sushil Adhikari, Patrick Cognet, Tetsuya Kida and Suttichai Assabumrungrat
Processes 2024, 12(12), 2851; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12122851 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2024
Viewed by 4885
Abstract
The valorization of coffee waste has gained traction due to its potential to generate valuable products, lessen its impact on the environment, and promote sustainability. This review examines the diverse range of coffee waste, including pulp, husk, mucilage, and parchment from the upstream [...] Read more.
The valorization of coffee waste has gained traction due to its potential to generate valuable products, lessen its impact on the environment, and promote sustainability. This review examines the diverse range of coffee waste, including pulp, husk, mucilage, and parchment from the upstream processing of green beans, as well as silverskin (coffee chaff) and spent coffee grounds (SCGs) generated during roasting and brewing. These materials are identified as valuable raw inputs for biorefineries pursuing a bio-circular economy. Recent research has yielded several viable applications for these by-products, categorized into four main areas: (1) agriculture, (2) biofuels and bioenergy, (3) biochemicals and biomaterials, and (4) food ingredients and nutraceuticals. Despite significant advancements in research, the industrial application of coffee waste remains limited. This review summarizes the global commercialization landscape, highlighting that SCGs are particularly advantageous for large-scale upcycling, with applications spanning agriculture, biofuels, and biochemicals. In contrast, coffee husk is primarily utilized in food ingredients and nutraceuticals. The review also addresses the challenges and constraints that must be overcome to facilitate successful commercialization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes")
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12 pages, 2295 KiB  
Review
Phosphite as a Sustainable and Versatile Alternative for Biostimulation, Biocontrol, and Weed Management in Modern Agriculture
by Libia Iris Trejo-Téllez, Víctor Hugo Carbajal-Vázquez, Jazmín Lavín-Castañeda and Fernando Carlos Gómez-Merino
Processes 2024, 12(12), 2764; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12122764 - 5 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1154
Abstract
Phosphite (Phi), an analog of phosphate (Pi), is an anion widely used in phytosanitary management and agricultural biostimulation schemes. Given that, unlike some species of bacteria, plants do not naturally have the mechanisms to metabolize Phi once they have absorbed it, Phi must [...] Read more.
Phosphite (Phi), an analog of phosphate (Pi), is an anion widely used in phytosanitary management and agricultural biostimulation schemes. Given that, unlike some species of bacteria, plants do not naturally have the mechanisms to metabolize Phi once they have absorbed it, Phi must be used in perfect coordination with adequate nutritional management of Pi in the crop since an excessive level of Phi combined with a deficient supply of Pi causes a disruption in ionic balances that can result in serious toxicity or even the death of the plant. In addition to the adequate Phi/Pi balance, high doses of Phi by themselves cause alterations in the mechanisms of perception and response to phosphorus deficiency leading to toxicity in plants. Hence, in various plant species, it has been proven that Phi can be used with herbicidal effects. Genes that encode enzymes involved in the metabolization of Phi have been isolated from bacterial genomes, and they have been transferred by genetic engineering to plant genomes, allowing the development of dual fertilization and weed control systems. This review provides background on the novel uses of Phi in agriculture and breaks down its potential use as an alternative herbicide in sustainable agriculture approaches supported by green chemistry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes")
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13 pages, 829 KiB  
Review
Sustainable Processes Reusing Potassium-Rich Biomass Ash as a Green Catalyst for Biodiesel Production: A Mini-Review
by Chi-Hung Tsai and Wen-Tien Tsai
Processes 2024, 12(12), 2736; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12122736 - 3 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1215
Abstract
To mitigate the emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) from fossil fuels, the use of biodiesel and its sustainable production have been receiving more attention over the past decade, especially for the reuse of waste cooking oils and non-edible oils as starting feedstocks. For [...] Read more.
To mitigate the emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) from fossil fuels, the use of biodiesel and its sustainable production have been receiving more attention over the past decade, especially for the reuse of waste cooking oils and non-edible oils as starting feedstocks. For the biodiesel production process, the suitability of a green catalyst is a core function in the transesterification reaction. Heterogeneous (solid-state) catalysts are generally superior to homogeneous (liquid-state) catalysts due to several significant advantages such as no saponification products formed, recyclability, and less equipment corrosion. Recent studies also revealed that heterogeneous solid base catalysts were widely used for the production of biodiesel. Furthermore, the use of biomass-based ash derived from herbaceous and agricultural biomass is increasing rapidly because of its environmental sustainability, high biodiesel yield, and low catalyst cost. To highlight alternative catalysts from biomass residues, this mini-review paper thus focused on a summary of various heterogeneous potassium-rich ash materials, which were used as green catalysts for the sustainable production of biodiesel. Due to the abundant quantity and chemical compositions, it was found that ash derived from cocoa pod husk may be the most commonly used solid base catalyst for producing biodiesel in the literature. Finally, future perspectives on biodiesel production by adopting emerging technologies and using high-potassium (K) biomass ash as a green catalyst were also addressed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes")
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21 pages, 2475 KiB  
Review
A Two-Way Street: How Are Yeasts Impacted by Pesticides and How Can They Help Solve Agrochemical Contamination Problems?
by Eduardo J. P. Pritsch, Danielli Schutz, Camila G. de Oliveira, Aline F. Camargo, Liziara C. Cabrera, Angela A. dos Santos, Altemir J. Mossi, Helen Treichel and Sérgio L. Alves, Jr.
Processes 2024, 12(11), 2555; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12112555 - 15 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1492
Abstract
Plant-associated yeasts play significant ecological roles within the microbiomes of soils and pollinating insects. In previous studies, we have shown that yeasts can assist pollinators in locating nectar, which is crucial for their nutrition and the reproduction of many angiosperms. Additionally, in soil, [...] Read more.
Plant-associated yeasts play significant ecological roles within the microbiomes of soils and pollinating insects. In previous studies, we have shown that yeasts can assist pollinators in locating nectar, which is crucial for their nutrition and the reproduction of many angiosperms. Additionally, in soil, yeasts can also act as plant growth promoters. Given the importance of yeasts for plant development, this review first explores the biochemical processes underlying the ecological role of these microorganisms in soil, insects, and in direct association with plants. Based on this premise, we discuss the influence of these relationships on agricultural production, the biological mechanisms through which pesticides negatively affect yeast cells, and how these microorganisms can tolerate widely used agrochemicals. Finally, we address key studies in the literature that support the potential of these microorganisms as bioremediation agents. In this context, we emphasize different experiences with both indigenous and genetically engineered yeasts, which may display enzymes in their surfaces that convert pesticides into less harmful or nontoxic molecules. Our review indicates that yeasts can be effectively harnessed in organic agriculture to promote plant growth and bioremediate contaminated soil or food. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes")
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21 pages, 1696 KiB  
Review
Distribution of Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria in the Environment: Cryopreservation Techniques and Their Potential Storage Application
by Ivan Kushkevych, Aneta Kovářová, Dani Dordevic, Jonah Gaine, Peter Kollar, Monika Vítězová and Simon K.-M. R. Rittmann
Processes 2021, 9(10), 1843; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr9101843 - 18 Oct 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7888
Abstract
Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) are a heterogeneous group of anaerobic microorganisms that play an important role in producing hydrogen sulfide not only in the natural environment, but also in the gastrointestinal tract and oral cavity of animals and humans. The present review was written [...] Read more.
Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) are a heterogeneous group of anaerobic microorganisms that play an important role in producing hydrogen sulfide not only in the natural environment, but also in the gastrointestinal tract and oral cavity of animals and humans. The present review was written with the inclusion of 110 references including the time period from 1951 to 2021. The following databases were evaluated: Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar. The articles chosen to be included in the review were written mainly in the English and Czech languages. The molecular mechanisms of microbial cryoprotection differ depending on the environment where microorganisms were initially isolated. It was observed that the viability of microorganisms after cryopreservation is dependent on a number of factors, primarily colony age, amount of inoculum, cell size or rate of cooling, and their molecular inventory. Therefore, this paper is devoted to assessing the performance and suitability of various cryopreservation methods of intestinal bacteria, including molecular mechanisms of their protection. In order to successfully complete the cryopreservation process, selecting the correct laboratory equipment and cryopreservation methodology is important. Our analysis revealed that SRB should be stored in glass vials to help mitigate the corrosive nature of hydrogen sulfide, which can affect their physiology on a molecular level. Furthermore, it is recommended that their storage be performed in distilled water or in a suspension with a low salt concentration. From a molecular biological and bioengineering perspective, this contribution emphasizes the need to consider the potential impact associated with SRB in the medical, construction, and environmental sectors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section "Environmental and Green Processes")
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