Innovative bio-waste valorization strategies for next-generation sustainable energy systems: a critical review on technologies, environmental impact, and circular economy integration

The valorization of bio-waste into renewable energy presents a promising solution to the dual challenges of sustainable waste management and clean energy production. This review critically examines a range of bio-waste conversion technologies-including anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, gasification, fermentation, and hydrothermal liquefaction-highlighting recent technological advancements and their potential to contribute to green energy systems. While these processes offer significant environmental benefits such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and resource recovery, they also entail environmental trade-offs, including emissions of air pollutants, energy consumption, and waste by-product management challenges. Through a comprehensive analysis of lifecycle assessments and environmental impacts, this review identifies key areas for optimization and improvement. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of integrating bio-waste valorization within circular economy frameworks to enhance sustainability and resource efficiency. The findings aim to guide researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders toward developing scalable, environmentally responsible bio-waste-to-energy solutions that support the transition to sustainable energy futures.

Keywords:

Bio-waste valorization , renewable energy , anaerobic digestion , pyrolysis , gasification