Energy production from leather solid wastes by anaerobic digestion: A critical review

Abstract

Solid waste generated from the leather industry is a major environmental challenge in developing countries such as Bangladesh to achieve sustainability in the leather sector. Mismanagement of such hazardous leather solid wastes (LSWs) has a significant negative socio-economic impact and is responsible for affecting public health. As a result, managing such LSWs is essential in order to protect the environment and improve socio-economic conditions. In this regard, sustainable energy generation, such as biogas or biofuel, is both profitable and environmentally friendly. To facilitate the generation of sustainable renewable energy from LSWs, this critical review aims to (a) explore the solid waste generated in the leather industry, (b) discuss the health risks caused by leather solid waste, (c) address the prevailing policies of solid waste management in Bangladesh, (d) review the existing literature of energy generation from LSWs, and (e) offer a series of future research outlook on energy generation from LSWs. This critical review will assist researchers, scholars and relevant stakeholders to work towards efficient and sustainable actions and policies on LSWs management.