Search Results (108)

The food consumption stage, the final step in the food supply chain (FSC), where food has already undergone resource-intensive processes, plays a central role in the transition to a sustainable food system. Consumers’ food choices and consumption practices directly influence food demand, production methods, and resource use across the FSC. These factors affect global challenges such as overconsumption, malnutrition, hunger, and food waste (FW)—issues integral to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, this study aims to identify key aspects of the food consumption stage that influence the shift toward sustainability and to develop a conceptual framework to guide this transition. To achieve this, an integrative literature review (ILR), supported by bibliometric analysis and narrative review elements, was conducted to strengthen the conceptual foundation. The results reveal four central aspects: FW and its reduction, the need for dietary shifts, changes in consumer behaviour, and policy reform, highlighting the consumer and their behaviour as the central connecting element. Based on the findings, a framework was developed linking the identified problems with targeted solutions, which can be implemented through various tools that also act as drivers of change, enhancing sustainable food consumption, food system sustainability, and the achievement of global SDGs. Full article

This study examines the progress, challenges, and successes in implementing Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG12), focusing on responsible consumption and production, using Qatar as a case study. The State has integrated Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) into national policies, established coordination mechanisms, and implemented action plans aligned with SDG12 targets. Achievements include renewable energy adoption, waste management reforms, and sustainable public procurement, though challenges persist in rationalizing fossil fuel subsidies, addressing data gaps, and enhancing corporate sustainability reporting. Efforts to reduce food loss and waste through redistribution programs highlight the country’s resilience, despite logistical obstacles. The nation has also advanced hazardous waste management, environmental awareness, and sustainable tourism policies, though gaps in data systems and policy coherence remain. Qatar’s approach provides a valuable local-to-global example of balancing resource-dependent economies with sustainability goals. Its strategies and lessons offer potential adaptability for other nations, especially those facing similar challenges in achieving SDG12. By strengthening data systems, enhancing policy integration, and fostering regional and international cooperation, Qatar’s efforts underscore the importance of aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship, serving as a blueprint for global sustainability initiatives. Full article

Marine biomass, particularly from waste streams, by-products, underutilized, invasive, or potential cultivable marine species, offers a sustainable source of high-value biopolymers such as collagen and chitin. These macromolecules have gained significant attention due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, functional versatility, and broad applicability across health, food, wellness, and environmental fields. This review highlights recent advances in the uses of marine-derived collagen and chitin/chitosan. In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we analyze how these applications contribute to sustainability, particularly in SDGs related to responsible consumption and production, good health and well-being, and life below water. Furthermore, we contextualize the advancement of product development using marine collagen and chitin/chitosan within the European Union’s Blue bioeconomy strategies, highlighting trends in scientific research and technological innovation through bibliometric and patent data. Finally, the review addresses challenges facing the development of robust value chains for these marine biopolymers, including collaboration, regulatory hurdles, supply-chain constraints, policy and financial support, education and training, and the need for integrated marine resource management. The paper concludes with recommendations for fostering innovation and sustainability in the valorization of these marine resources. Full article

This study addresses the problem of agricultural waste utilization and nutrition for older adults by developing a food product based on a circular design approach. Pineapple core was used to produce a clean-label dietary powder without chemical or enzymatic treatment, relying on repeated rinsing and hot-air drying. The development process followed a structured analysis of physical, chemical, and sensory properties. The powder contained 83.46 g/100 g dietary fiber, 0° Brix sugar, pH 4.72, low water activity (aw < 0.45), and no detectable heavy metals or microbial contamination. Sensory evaluation by expert panelists confirmed that the product was acceptable in appearance, aroma, and texture, particularly for older adults. These results demonstrate the feasibility and safety of valorizing agri-waste into functional ingredients. The process was guided by the Transformative Circular Product Blueprint, which integrates clean-label processing, IoT-enabled solar drying, and decentralized production. This model supports traceability, low energy use, and adaptation at the community scale. This study contributes to sustainable food innovation and aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Full article

Petroleum-based insulating liquids have traditionally been used in the electrical industry for cooling and insulation. However, their environmental drawbacks, such as non-biodegradability and ecological risks, have led to increasing regulatory restrictions. As a sustainable alternative, vegetable-based insulating liquids have gained attention due to their biodegradability, non-toxicity to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, and lower carbon emissions. Adopting vegetable-based insulating liquids also aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 and 13, which focus on cleaner energy sources and reducing carbon emissions. Despite these benefits, most commercially available vegetable-based insulating liquids are derived from edible seed oils, raising concerns about food security and the environmental footprint of large-scale agricultural production, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. In recent years, waste cooking oils (WCOs) have emerged as a promising resource for industrial applications through waste-to-value conversion processes. However, their potential as transformer insulating liquids remains largely unexplored due to limited research and available data. This review explores the feasibility of utilizing waste cooking oils as green transformer insulating liquids. It examines the conversion and purification processes required to enhance their suitability for insulation applications, evaluates their dielectric and thermal performance, and assesses their potential implementation in transformers based on existing literature. The objective is to provide a comprehensive assessment of waste cooking oil as an alternative insulating liquid, highlight key challenges associated with its adoption, and outline future research directions to optimize its properties for high-voltage transformer applications. Full article

Food waste in Australia’s horticulture sector poses significant economic, environmental, and social challenges, with approximately 1.3 million tonnes of waste generated annually. This waste, particularly prevalent in fruits and vegetables, arises across various supply chain stages, driven by factors such as overproduction, cosmetic standards, inadequate redistribution networks, and limited technological infrastructure. Addressing these issues is critical to achieving national sustainability goals, including halving food waste by 2030 as outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 12.3). This paper explores the development of an action plan to systematically reduce food waste across the horticulture supply chain through an extensive research and consultation process. Using a review-plan-do sector action plan methodology, the study combined insights from a literature review, stakeholder interviews, and workshops to identify and validate waste hotspots, root causes, and actionable strategies. Key findings from the research informed the development of nine prioritized strategies categorized into enabling, preventive, and repurposing actions. These strategies include implementing standardized waste measurement systems, enhancing redistribution infrastructure, expanding processing facilities for value-added products, and promoting flexible cosmetic standards. Under these strategies, the plan also outlines short-, medium-, and long-term actions to achieve a 50% reduction in food waste by 2030. This sector-wide action plan serves as a practical model for addressing food waste challenges and fostering sustainability in horticulture and similar industries globally. Full article

This article addresses the scientific gap relating to the limited representation of municipal waste policies in quantitative assessments, as well as their goal to “catch up” economies in the context of SDG 12. The novelty of the paper is defined by the guidelines developed for the consistent logical research of the effectiveness of municipal waste collection and management policies. Herein, a Lithuanian case is considered, with the period of analysis ranging from 2012 to 2023. A review of the scientific literature, an analysis of waste policy, and statistical data analysis methods were applied. The statistical data analysis showed that, while waste generation was historically increasing in parallel with the growth in national income and was therefore inconsistent with the long-term goal to reduce waste, municipal waste, which remains present in a significant amount and makes up one-fifth of the waste structure, is decreasing by 2.0% a year, which is conducive to achieving the goal. An analysis of the municipal waste treatment structure revealed that the priority order of waste management is maintained, as ready-to-reuse and recycling are dominant (accounting for half of all municipal waste management activities), followed by incineration, which accounts for a third of all municipal waste management activities. The requirement to reduce municipal waste disposal in landfills is being successfully implemented. From 2012 to 2023, the proportion of municipal waste disposal in landfills significantly decreased, and it presently accounts for 8.0%, while the target value is 5% by 2030. Difficulties arise in implementing requirements to sort municipal waste and increase the share of ready-to-reuse and recycled waste. In 2023, 66% of municipal waste was mixed, and the share of sorted municipal waste is slowly increasing. A decrease in recycled and ready-to-reuse municipal waste has been observed since 2017. Food waste is a particular issue. A total of 100.9 kilotons of food was wasted in 2023; however, this value is 12.3% less than that of 2020. Other indicators are also analyzed in this article. The results show changes in unsustainable consumption habits and a shift towards responsible consumption in relation to the implemented municipal waste collection and management policy. In the future, it will be necessary to conduct research into the problems that are identified in this article in order to propose scientifically sound and responsible consumption solutions in the areas responding to SDG 12; this will increase the effectiveness of municipal waste collection and management policies. Full article

The growing challenges of freshwater scarcity and the high generation of agro-industrial waste, particularly from fruit and vegetable (F&V) processing, pose significant threats to the sustainability of global food systems. F&V waste, which represents a major portion of the 1.3 billion tons of annual food waste, is characterized by a high moisture content (80–95%), making it a largely overlooked but promising source of water recovery. This review critically assesses the techno-economic and environmental feasibility of extracting water from moisture-rich agro-industrial waste streams. Potential technologies such as solar distillation and membrane separation are evaluated to determine their capacity to treat complex organic effluents and recover high-quality water. The potential end uses of reclaimed water in all sectors are explored, focusing on agricultural irrigation, fertigation, industrial reuse and environmental restoration. This study addresses a key research gap and proposes the reclassification of agro-industrial waste as a viable water resource aligned with circular bioeconomy principles and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6 and 12. Full article

Attempts have been made to replace conventional plastics in food packaging with biodegradable materials as a promising alternative because they are natural, renewable, and low-cost. This study aimed to develop biodegradable and resistant films from cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) from sugarcane bagasse when used as reinforcement in starch films. Sugarcane bagasse pulps were subjected to alkaline treatment, with the residual lignin remaining. Part of the material was subjected to a bleaching process with H₂O₂. The pulps were subjected to the mechanical fibrillation process, and unbleached and bleached CNFs were produced. Percentages of 10%, 20%, 30%, and 50% CNF were added to a solution containing 2.5% starch (m/m) solids to make the films. The addition of unbleached CNF promoted an average increase in the tensile strength and Young’s modulus values, especially for films with higher percentages of CNF (30% and 50%). The contact angle values increased with the CNF concentration, with all films being classified as hydrophobic (>90°), except for the films with 30% and 50% unbleached CNF. The 50% unbleached and bleached CNF samples showed low water vapor permeability (2.17 g.mm/Kpa⁻¹ day⁻¹ m²), indicating a good vapor barrier. Although the influence of residual lignin on the test results was not identified for the other samples, treatments with 50% CNF of sugarcane bagasse (unbleached or bleached) should be highlighted among the properties evaluated for reinforcing the structure and improving the barrier properties of cassava starch-based films. Furthermore, this study proposes using sugarcane bagasse, which is a waste widely available in Brazil, placing the study in line with three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Full article

Food waste is a critical issue, with significant implications for global sustainability and the achievement of SDG 12.3, which aims to halve per capita food waste by 2030. This study explores consumer attitudes and behavioural intentions toward food waste reduction in food services in Slovenia, focusing on their willingness to support measures such as taking leftovers home, pre-ordering meals, and reducing portion sizes. Using an online survey with 802 respondents, we examined the behavioural drivers within the Motivation–Opportunity–Ability MOA framework and demographic predictors. The results from the regression analysis revealed that motivation significantly influenced both the likelihood of taking leftovers home and the acceptance of pre-ordering, though in opposite directions. Ability was a significant factor in pre-ordering acceptance, while perceived portion size importance negatively impacted acceptance of portion reduction. While meal quality and portion sizes remain the main causes of plate waste, ethical and environmental concerns were found to be the strongest drivers of consumers’ behaviour to reduce food waste. Support for interventions increased when convenience or financial incentives were offered. These findings highlight the need for targeted strategies that balance sustainability goals with consumer preferences and provide actionable recommendations for food service providers to reduce food waste effectively while aligning with consumer expectations. Full article

Archeological evidence shows that dairy farming dates to the early Neolithic era in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Over time, it has evolved from domestication to intensive dairy farms with large, high-tech processing units. Dairy farming has contributed to economic growth, food production, employment, and processing industries. Nonetheless, it has been identified as a major contributor to climate change. This study explores the literature on dairy farming and sustainable development goals (SDGs) to identify current scholarly developments since the formulation and adoption of the SDGs in 2015 and themes for future research. This paper argues that sustainability shortfalls in dairy farming are primarily driven by human processes associated with commercialization and industrialization rather than the animals themselves, although biological emissions remain an inherent factor. Data were analyzed using R package, Excel, NVIVO, and VoS Viewer. A review of the literature showed that dairy farming and its contribution to sustainability has gained more scientific interest since 2015. Moreover, livestock management, feed production and management, stakeholder management, logistics and supply chain management, and waste management are the sources of environmental adversities associated with dairy farming. Notably, these are human processes developed from the commercialization of dairy farming and involve multiple stakeholders across the supply chain. While solutions are embedded within these processes, innovation emerges as a key driver of sustainability and a source of opportunities to strengthen sustainability in the dairy farming sector and achieve SDGs. Sustainability strategies, such as sustainable intensification, multifunctional agriculture, and agro-ecology should be implemented to improve sustainability in the dairy sector. Full article

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are found everywhere, including food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. This review introduces PFASs comprehensively, discussing their nature and identifying their interconnection with microplastics and their impacts on public health and the environment. The human cost of decades of delay, cover-ups, and mismanagement of PFASs and plastic waste is outlined and briefly explained. Following that, PFASs and long-term health effects are critically assessed. Risk assessment is then critically reviewed, mentioning different tools and models. Scientific research and health impacts in the United States of America are critically analyzed, taking into consideration the Center for Disease Control (CDC)’s PFAS Medical Studies and Guidelines. PFAS impact and activities studies around the world have focused on PFAS levels in food products and dietary intake in different countries such as China, European countries, USA and Australia. Moreover, PFASs in drinking water and food are outlined with regard to risks, mitigation, and regulatory needs, taking into account chemical contaminants in food and their impact on health and safety. Finally, PFAS impact and activities briefings specific to regions around the world are discussed, referring to Australia, Vietnam, Canada, Europe, the United States of America (USA), South America, and Africa. The PFAS crisis is a multifaceted issue, exacerbated by mismanagement, and it is discussed in the context of applying the following problem-solving analytical tools: the Domino Effect Model of accident causation, the Swiss Cheese Theory Model, and the Ishikawa Fish Bone Root Cause Analysis. Last but not least, PFASs’ impacts on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of 2030 are rigorously discussed. Full article

The global commitment to ending hunger by 2030 has driven Colombia to align its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) toward reducing food waste and ensuring access to safe, nutritious food. A critical need is monitoring cumulative temperatures across food supply networks, prioritizing products over transport or storage infrastructure. This study introduces a Functional Time–Temperature Indicator (TTI) using nanodispersions of silver (Ag) and gold (Au) nanoparticles housed in 3D-printed plant-based resin containers. Nanoparticles were synthesized via three methods: in situ reduction (AgNPs), seed-based thermal synthesis (AgTNPs), and pulsed laser ablation in liquid (AuNPs). The TTIs operate through three colorimetric mechanisms: NP concentration, geometry changes, and agglomeration. At 4 °C, AgNPs and AgTNPs maintained stable color, while at 22 °C, they exhibited significant changes, with AgNPs reaching 252% variation within 5 h. AuNPs responded at lower temperatures, showing up to 27% variation. Containers enabled effective nanodispersion incorporation due to their thermal and optical properties. AgTNP-based TTIs demonstrated the most noticeable changes at 22 °C, with a total color difference ($\Delta E$) of 39.9, easily detectable by observers. These TTIs provide robust solutions for continuous cold chain monitoring, enhancing food safety and preserving quality throughout the supply chain. Full article

This study investigates the influence of consumers’ alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on their participation in agricultural product subscription services. A two-step cluster analysis was employed to classify consumer subscription behaviors into distinct groups, followed by discriminant analysis and one-way ANOVA to examine differences in consumer behavior and SDG alignment across these clusters. The findings identified three key subscriber categories: General, Price-Oriented, and Quality-Oriented Subscribers. A critical factor distinguishing these clusters was the reduction in product waste, which aligns with SDG 2, aimed at improving agricultural production efficiency to ensure food security. Overall, this study identified a significant relationship between agricultural product subscriptions and the SDGs, reflecting consumers’ attitudes toward sustainable development based on their varying degrees of recognition of the subscription model’s value. Full article

In pursuing sustainable health solutions and growing demand for neuroprotective interventions, the industry demands alternative green extraction technologies to valorize agri-food by-products. This study aimed to develop an optimized supercritical carbon dioxide extraction to isolate sesame meal’s functional compound (lignans) and assess their neuroprotective effects. Extraction was performed at various pressures (2–4 kpsi), temperatures (40–60 °C), co-solvent concentrations (2–25 mol% ethanol), and CO₂ collection segments (0–100 NL) to systematically analyze extraction parameters. Extracts were analyzed quantitatively using high-performance liquid chromatography followed by neuroprotective mechanisms analysis through PC12 neural cell and ischemic stroke models. The results showed that adding ethanol enhanced the polarity and density of supercritical CO₂, improving the extraction efficiency of polar lignans. Optimal extraction conditions (4 kpsi, 50 °C, 10 mol% ethanol) yielded the highest sesamol, sesamin, and sesamolin. Extracts showed remarkable protective capabilities when subjected to oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) conditions simulating ischemic stress, preventing the enhancement of lactate dehydrogenase activity. Relatively low extract concentrations (25–100 μg/mL) significantly mitigated cellular damage induced by short and extended OGD conditions. The findings revealed green extraction methodologies’ capability to transform sesame meal, a food processing waste, into value-added compounds, in line with sustainable development goals for responsible and sustainable food production, particularly SDGs 3, 9, 12, and 13. Full article