Unlocking the Potential of Agrifood Waste for Sustainable Innovation in Agriculture

Abstract

The United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP’s) Food Waste Index Report 2021 highlights a global annual food waste of 1 billion tons. The UNEP plays a crucial role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3, which aims to halve per capita global food waste (FW) at the retail and consumer levels and reduce food losses along production and supply chains globally by 2030. On the other hand, the agricultural sector faces the challenge of increasing productivity to feed the world’s growing population while reducing the environmental impact on ecosystems and human health. In this context, the conversion of agri-food waste (AFW) into biocides, bio-based fertilizers (BBFs) and biostimulants could represent a successful approach to tackle all these issues. This review shows the latest findings on the different sources of AFW and the application of their bioactive compounds in agriculture. Increasing crop yields and improving plant physiology through the utilization of AFW-derived value products aligns with a circular economy approach, bolstering people’s confidence in managing food waste for improved food production.

Harnessing Agri-Food Waste as a Source of Biopolymers for Agriculture

“…Additionally, it integrates into a diverse range of polymers utilized in various materials, including those in outdoor applications like greenhouse construction and irrigation systems [28]. Moreover, lignin serves as a versatile agent, functioning as a dispersant, surfactant, insecticide [29], fungicide [30], antibacterial agent [31], or fertilizer [32]. Moreover, in the food industry, lignin finds utility as an additive in food packaging materials, enhancing their properties [20].…”

“…The challenge at hand involves managing waste generated throughout the supply chain, from farm to fork. Innovative waste management models are emerging as important tools to address this issue and improve the sustainability of food supply chains [31]. AFW recovery holds great potential for economic, social, and environmental benefits.…”

“…The reuse of AFW encompasses the conversion into useful products, such as biofuels and chemicals [134]. To achieve this goal, various methods have been exploited to add value to AFW, including pyrolysis, anaerobic digestion, decomposition, chemical and thermal treatment, solid catalysis, extraction, and fermentation [31,135].…”