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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Waste and Recycling".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2025 | Viewed by 24111

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Maria Nazaré Coelho Marques Pinheiro

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Guest Editor

Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Coimbra Institute of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Rua Pedro Nunes 3045-093 Coimbra, Portugal
Interests: waste valorization; bioresources recycling; separation processes; transport phenomena

Dr. Lyudmyla Symochko

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor

1. Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, CC Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
2. Faculty of Biology, Uzhhorod National University, 88000 Uzhhorod, Ukraine
Interests: food security; soil science; ecosystem management; sustainability; environmental microbiology; ecology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Sustainable development and quality of life associated with less consumption of bioresources must be the new paradigm. Good practices such as the recycling and valorization of bioproducts and waste are essential to the circularity of the bioresource economy. It is crucial that the challenges of consciousness development toward sustainability are based on concerted actions to safeguard bioresources. The implementation of green chemistry approaches in industry and agriculture will allow to reduce their negative impact on the environment and promote sustainable development. Biodiversity preservation and the management of ecosystems, the responsible production and consumption of food, energy, and water, and the adoption of sustainable agricultural, forest, and marine activities are some fundamental actions to reach sustainable development goals.

We welcome case studies with practical research results and reflections/discussion addressing the following topics:

Agriculture waste valorization;
Forest waste valorization;
Green chemistry approaches for waste valorization;
Ecosystem management and sustainability;
Water and soil quality;
Food system optimization and food security;
Soil integrity preservation;
Marine ecosystem sustainability;
Management and innovative uses of local bioresources.

Prof. Dr. Maria Nazaré Coelho Marques Pinheiro
Dr. Lyudmyla Symochko
Guest Editors

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Keywords

bioproducts valorization
waste valorization
bioresources
sustainability
food security
ecosystem management

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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32 pages, 3897 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Straw Logistics Network Optimization Considering Cost Importance and Carbon Emission under the Concept of Sustainable Development

by Jia Mao, Shiqi Zhang and Jin Liu

Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 6235; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16146235 - 21 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1665

Abstract

As biomass power generation projects progress, the supply chain of biomass resources has become a key link for the green development of biomass power facilities. The role of biomass recycling logistics in the sustainable development of biomass resources and power generation endeavors has grown increasingly significant. To realize environmentally friendly and economical straw logistics, it is imperative to establish an efficient, economic and sustainable straw recycling logistics network. Therefore, based on the weighting theory and top-down method, this study proposes a planning model aiming at minimum total cost and minimum carbon emission to locate the logistics network. The immune algorithm is applied to solve and analyze the proposed examples. It is concluded that under the condition that the total cost is reasonable, reducing transportation cost. The verification model can enhance the environmental and economic performance of straw logistics networks. From the perspective of theory and practice, we provide ideas for the optimization of relevant biomass logistics networks and promote the realization of low-carbon sustainable development of logistics networks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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17 pages, 4121 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Grape Pomace (Vitis vinifera L.) Waste Valorization: Assessing Its Potential as a Sustainable Natural Dye for Textiles Applications

by Filipa D. Fonseca, Lyudmyla Symochko and M. Nazaré Coelho Pinheiro

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3167; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083167 - 10 Apr 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2904

Abstract

The present study aimed to explore the textile dyeing capability using dyes derived from grape pomace. Extractions were conducted with water at different pH levels and with a water/ethanol solution. Cotton (natural and cationized) and wool were employed in the dyeing process for varying durations (100 and 200 min). The colorimetric and fastness properties, in terms of washing (with hot and cold water) and exposure to natural light, were evaluated. The final color evaluation was performed using ΔE*, a parameter quantifying the magnitude of a color difference by comparing the L*a*b* color coordinates of the CIELAB system of the dyed samples with those of the control. The hues obtained on the fabrics resulted in uniform and earthy colors. However, the cationized cotton substrate showed the highest ΔE* values for all conditions used in obtaining grape pomace extracts, in the range of 33.91 to 37.98. This suggests that the surface treatment enhanced dye uptake, while organic cotton achieved a lighter earthy color. Natural dyeing using grape pomace presents a sustainable, ecological, and non-toxic alternative for textile dyeing, resulting in unique and earthy tones with commercial potential while promoting the sustainable use of natural resources and environmental preservation. The key to achieving sustainable development lies in waste reduction and valorization, along with the adoption of conscious consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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21 pages, 7249 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparison between Uneven-Aged Forest Stands from the Southern Carpathians and Those from the Banat Mountains

by Vlad Crişan, Lucian Dincă, Dumitru Târziu, Aurelia Oneţ, Cristian Oneţ and Ilie-Cosmin Cântar

Sustainability 2024, 16(3), 1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16031109 - 28 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1661

Abstract

In this paper, uneven-aged stands from two important Romanian mountain areas—the Southern Carpathians and Banat Mountains—are compared with the purpose of studying the stationary conditions of uneven-aged forest stands in order to determine which management strategies are best suited to these forests and other Romanian forests with a similar structure. The study is based on silvicultural practices and natural growth conditions related to uneven-aged forest stands. The analysed surface represents 20% of Romania’s forests and includes all uneven-aged forest stands in the Southern Carpathians and half of the Romanian Western Carpathians. It has been concluded that the Southern Carpathians and Banat Mountains contain a relatively reduced percentage of uneven-aged stands compared with the total number of stands due to their composition and less favourable stationary conditions of the stands. This section highlights the novelty of the work carried out in this study on uneven-aged forest stands from two landscape reliefs in Romania. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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20 pages, 2683 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Valorisation of Forest and Agriculture Residual Biomass—The Application of Life Cycle Assessment to Analyse Composting, Mulching, and Energetic Valorisation Strategies

by Isabel Brás, Elisabete Silva, Roberta Raimondo, Raffaella Saetta, Vincenzo Mignano, Massimiliano Fabbricino and José Ferreira

Sustainability 2024, 16(2), 630; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16020630 - 11 Jan 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1948

Abstract

The treatment of agricultural and forest residues (AFRs) has become an important issue nowadays, both to avoid improper management and for their enhancement. In the study area of Viseu (Portugal), the AFRs are taken to a Residual Biomass Collection Centre. These are valorised in a Biomass Power Plant to produce electricity. Two further processes could be implemented to valorise this biomass: mulching and composting. This study aims to understand the best strategy to enhance this type of biomass residual considering their environmental performance. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was applied considering a cradle-to-grave approach. Different processes of all the technologies were analysed, and the data collected enabled a comparison of 11 environmental impact categories. The results show that composting is the best alternative, except for global warming and ozone layer depletion, and energy valorisation has the greatest impact on five of the considered categories. In the three processes, impacts are mainly associated with the production and shredding phases of the residual biomass, rather than the transportation stages, due to the short distances covered. In all cases, the value of the final product generates market consequences in terms of electricity and fertiliser production. In line with the aim of the study, its outcomes may provide scientific support to local decision makers in defining best practices in the management of the AFRs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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21 pages, 2013 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Ice Cream Base: Harnessing Mango Seed Kernel (Mangifera indica L. var. Tommy Atkins) Waste and Cheese Whey

by Pedro Gerardo Trejo-Flores, Lester Alejandro Santiago-Rodríguez, María Emperatriz Domínguez-Espinosa, Abumalé Cruz-Salomón, Paulina Elizabeth Velázquez-Jiménez, Jesús Mauricio Ernesto Hernández-Méndez, Mario Alberto Morales-Ovando, Kelly del Carmen Cruz-Salomón, Maritza del Carmen Hernández-Cruz, Paola Tayde Vázquez-Villegas, Rosa Isela Cruz-Rodríguez, Rocío del Pilar Serrano-Ramírez, Yazmin Sánchez-Roque and Heber Vilchis-Bravo

Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14583; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914583 - 8 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3239

Abstract

The agro-food industry plays a crucial role in enhancing living standards; however, inadequate losses and waste management persists as significant challenges within its processes. Particularly, mango and cheese processing generate substantial waste, leading to ecological disruptions, economic losses, and concerns related to food security and public health. To address these issues, this study was aimed at utilizing this waste to produce a high-quality ice cream base, thereby valorizing the discarded materials. This approach not only adds nutritional value but also contributes to food security and sovereignty. The raw materials (cheese whey, oil, and starch) were subjected to physicochemical characterization, leading to the development of three different ice cream base formulations. Subsequently, the ice cream bases were evaluated for their physicochemical, functional, and sensory properties. The findings of this study revealed that mango seed kernel and cheese whey waste contain valuable components that enable the creation of an ice cream base with excellent physicochemical, functional, and sensory properties. Moreover, this research showcases a promising solution for effectively valorizing food waste and generating value-added products such as ice cream, thus promoting sustainability and resource optimization within the agro-food industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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13 pages, 22747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Cosmetics: Valorisation of Kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) By-Products by Their Incorporation into a Moisturising Cream

by Sandra M. Gomes, Rita Miranda and Lúcia Santos

Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14059; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914059 - 22 Sep 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3835

Abstract

The growing population has intensified food processing, increasing the generation of agro-industrial waste. This waste is rich in bioactive compounds; therefore, it can be valorised by extracting their compounds of biological interest and incorporating them into cosmetic products. In this work, an extract was obtained from kiwi peels and characterised regarding its biological properties and phenolic composition. Results demonstrated that the extract presented antioxidant activity against DPPH and ABTS radicals (IC₅₀ values of 244 mg/L and 58 mg/L, respectively) and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Catechin and epicatechin (flavonoids), as well as chlorogenic acid (phenolic acid), were the main phenolic compounds identified. Subsequently, the kiwi peel extract was incorporated into cosmetic formulations and their antioxidant properties and stability were evaluated. An increase in the antioxidant activity of the moisturising cream was observed upon the extract’s addition. Also, no microorganisms were present in any formulation prepared, attesting to their microbial safety. Finally, the results from the stability analysis revealed that the moisturising creams remained relatively stable for two weeks. These findings suggest that extracts from kiwi peels have the potential to be used as natural additives to produce value-added cosmetic products in a more sustainable manner. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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17 pages, 2353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Challenges of Digital Waste Marketplace—The Upvalue Platform

by Margarida Soares, André Ribeiro, Tomás Vasconcelos, Manuel Barros, Carla Castro, Cândida Vilarinho and Joana Carvalho

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 11235; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151411235 - 19 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3056

Abstract

Waste management is a major challenge for contemporary societies, requiring urgent attention since population growth combined with widespread consumerism and industrialization has led to an alarming increase in waste production. To avoid harmful environmental impacts and the misuse of resources, it is urgent to combat this scourge. A potential solution involves the creation of industrial symbioses, characterized by the practical application of circular economy principles. The use of collaborative platforms is a possible way to promote industrial symbiosis. Addressing these pressing concerns and responding to these challenges, the Upcycle4Biz project envisions establishing a digital platform called Upvalue, conceived as a marketplace where companies can exchange waste and by-products. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and benefits associated with the development of this innovative platform, as well as a presentation of the platform itself. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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20 pages, 2531 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Ketoprofen in Fish: Life Cycle Assessment Using Sensors vs. Conventional Methodology

by Elena Surra, Álvaro Torrinha, Cristina Delerue-Matos and Simone Morais

Sustainability 2023, 15(8), 6775; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15086775 - 18 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1846

Abstract

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a powerful tool to quantify the environmental burdens of different analytical techniques. This work assesses the environmental impacts associated with the use of a simple electrochemical carbon paper sensor (CPS) for ketoprofen detection in fish by LCA in comparison with traditional liquid high-performance chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescent detection. The results indicate significant advantages of CPS compared to HPLC in 16 of the 18 analyzed categories of impact (ReCiPe2016(H) method), with average CPS values 26% lower than for HPLC. This is due, in the categories of impact with higher environmental relevance, to the higher electric energy consumption during the “Analysis” step and, secondarily, to the use of acetonitrile as a mobile phase. On an annual basis, ketoprofen detection by CPS saves 333 kg 1.4 dichlorobenzene equivalents (1.4 DCB eq) of non-carcinogenic and 6.9 kg 1.4 DCB eq of carcinogenic human toxicities, 43.6 kg oil eq of fossil resources, and 91.4 kg CO₂ eq of greenhouse gas emissions compared to HPLC. The high capital investment, maintenance costs, and reagents quantities required for HPLC mitigate the economic competitiveness of this traditional technique compared to the rapid and less complex portable CPS device under the studied conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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15 pages, 6347 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Noxious Weed Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. (Ragweed) as Sustainable Feedstock for Methane Production and Metals Immobilization

by Olesia Havryliuk, Vira Hovorukha, Galyna Gladka, Artem Tymoshenko, Semen Kyrylov, Oleksandra Shabliy, Iryna Bida, Ruslan Mariychuk and Oleksandr Tashyrev

Sustainability 2023, 15(8), 6696; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15086696 - 15 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2156

Abstract

Plants of the Ambrosia genus are invasive and cause many ecological problems, including the oppression of the growth of agricultural crops and native plants, land depletion, and the production of strong allergens. The use of weeds as a sustainable feedstock for biogas production, either methane or hydrogen, is a promising way to fulfill the energy needs of the current generation, eliminate the depletion of non-renewable carbon resources, and preserve the ecosystem degradation caused by invasive species impacts. A diversified microbial community was used as inoculum and Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. biomass as a substrate for anaerobic degradation and methane production. In this regard, the development of biotechnological approaches to ragweed degradation will promote the integration of new renewable energy systems. Herein, we have shown the high effectiveness of combining the processes of anaerobic degradation of plant biomass for methane production and detoxification of meal-containing model sewage by a diversified microbial community. Thus, the maximum methane yield was 56.0 L kg⁻¹ TS. The presence of 500 mg L⁻¹ Cu(II) slightly inhibited methane synthesis, and the methane yield was 38.4 L kg⁻¹ TS. In contrast to a diversified microbial community, the natural microbiome of ragweed almost did not synthesize methane and did not degrade plant biomass (Kd = 2.3). Methanogens effectively immobilized Cr(IV), Cu(II), and Fe(III) during ragweed fermentation at initial concentrations of 100–200 mg L⁻¹. The obtained results showed the high effectiveness of applying a diversified microbial community in a sewage treatment plant for the degradation of a noxious plant, Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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51 pages, 1411 KiB

Open AccessReview

Biological Treatments for VOC-Contaminated Off-Gas: Advances, Challenges, and Energetic Valorization Opportunities

by João R. Silva, Rosa M. Quinta-Ferreira and Luís M. Castro

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4802; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114802 - 23 May 2025

Viewed by 95

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are major contributors to the burgeoning air pollution issue, predominantly from industrial areas, with well-documented environmental and health risks, which demand efficient and sustainable control policies. This review analyzes the current technological challenges and investigates recent developments in biological treatment technologies for VOC-contaminated off-gases, including biofilters, biotrickling filters, and bioscrubber, as well as emerging technologies, such as bioaugmentation and microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Operational performance, economic feasibility, and adaptability to various industrial applications are assessed, alongside opportunities for integration with other technologies, including energy recovery technologies. Biological systems offer considerable advantages regarding cost savings and lower environmental impacts and enhanced operational flexibility, particularly when combined with innovative materials and microbial optimization techniques. Nevertheless, challenges persist, such as choosing the best treatment settings suited to different VOC streams and addressing biofilm control concerns and scalability. Overall, biological VOC treatments are encouraging sustainable solutions, though continued research into reactor design, microbial dynamics, and MFC-based energetic valorization is essential for broader industrial application. These insights cover advancements and highlight the continuous need for innovative prowess to forge sustainable VOC pollution control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)

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