GREEN CHEMISTRY APPROACHES FOR SUSTAINABLE WASTE VALORIZATION AND RESOURCE RECOVERY: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

The increasing amount of agriculture, industry, municipality, food, plastic, and electronic waste has led to environmental degradation, which has only increased the need for sustainable management of resources. The concept of green chemistry, in its push to reduce hazardous materials, to be more resource-efficient and support circular materials use, has changed the way people see waste as an environmental problem, and profited as a resource. This in-depth review discusses the principles of green chemistry and their application in waste valorization and resource recovery in different waste streams. It covers the key green conversion technologies such as catalytic, biocatalytic, hydrothermal, electrochemical, microwave-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, mechanochemical and supercritical fluid processes, and explains their applications in bioenergy production, platform chemicals, bioplastics, biochar, advanced carbon materials, and biofertilizers. The review also delves into the methodology for sustainability assessment, industrial implementation and the role of green chemistry in the circular economy and sustainable development. Current up-and-coming technologies such as artificial intelligence, smart biorefineries, carbon capture and utilization and green hydrogen production are assessed to determine the potential for enhancing process efficiency and industrial scalability. While facing a number of technological hurdles due to feedstock variability, catalyst stability, economic viability, and regulatory support, sustained technological innovation and interdisciplinary research are expected to bring a boost to sustainable waste valorization. In conclusion, green chemistry offers a comprehensive approach to sustainable waste management, resource conservation, and long-term sustainable industrial processes.