Waste Biodegradation: Recycling and Upcycling

Dear Colleagues,

The rapid industrialization and consumer-driven economy have led to the generation of massive volumes of waste, including synthetic polymers, plastics, agro-industrial by-products, and other recalcitrant materials. Conventional disposal methods such as landfilling and incineration pose serious environmental challenges, demanding sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Microbial and enzymatic biodegradation has emerged as a promising route for transforming industrial waste into valuable products through recycling and upcycling approaches. This Topic aims to bring together innovative research and critical reviews addressing advances in biodegradation processes, microbial pathways, engineered enzymes, and biotechnological strategies for waste valorization. Particular emphasis will be given to the degradation and transformation of synthetic polymers, plastics, and complex industrial residues into bio-based materials, energy carriers, platform chemicals, and other high-value products. This Topic will also highlight novel bioprocesses, integrated waste management systems, and life cycle assessments that contribute to circular economy frameworks. By showcasing cutting-edge developments, this Topic seeks to provide a platform for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to accelerate the transition toward sustainable waste management and resource recovery solutions. This Topic seeks high-quality works focusing on the following topics:

• Waste biodegradation and valorization.
• Plastic and polymer biodegradation.
• Industrial waste recycling.
• Waste upcycling technologies.
• Bioconversion of synthetic polymers.
• Microbial and enzymatic degradation.
• Circular economy and waste management.
• Bio-based materials from waste.
• Sustainable recycling strategies.
• Waste-to-value bioprocesses.

Dr. Virender Kumar
Dr. Shashi Kant Bhatia
Topic Editors