Circular Bioeconomy Research Articles

Circular bioeconomy in the Global South: The case of circular bio-based building material use in Vietnam.

Circular bio-based building materials (CBBMs) offer a sustainable solution for reducing the climate impact of buildings and are crucial for transitioning the construction industry towards a circular economy (CE). Reusing, cascading, and recycling municipal biowaste, agricultural by-products, and residues to produce CBBMs can optimise resource utilisation and deliver substantial environmental, economic, and social benefits, as well as promote a circular bioeconomy (CBE). Despite these benefits, the CBBM adoption in the Global South remains limited due to various barriers. Notably, the existing literature lacks research into the current use status and adoption barriers of CBBMs in these regions. This study addresses these gaps by investigating the usage and barriers to CBBM adoption, based on insights from building professionals in Vietnam. Data from 123 valid responses were analysed using descriptive statistics, ranking analysis, and exploratory factor analysis. The findings indicate that "circular bio-based panels or particle boards", "agricultural by-products mixed with clay for wall construction", and "circular bio-based concrete, bricks, fillers, or binders" are the most commonly utilised CBBMs. Government-related barriers, such as "building code restrictions and lack of regulation", "lack of government promotion and incentives", and "lack of design guides and tools for projects using CBBMs", are identified as the most significant obstacles to CBBM uptake. Kendall's W and Whitney U tests reveal a strong consensus among experts, with no significant differences between those with and without firsthand CBBM experience regarding their ranks of barriers. Exploratory factor analysis identified 20 independent barriers, grouped into four components, with the one containing cost and time-related barriers emerging as the most dominant to market and technical-related, government-related, and information and perception-related barriers. The study's findings could provide useful insights for policy recommendations to promote CBBM adoption in Vietnam. These insights may also inform strategies in other Global South countries with similar socioeconomic conditions to facilitate the transition to CE and CBE, mitigating climate change impact, and promoting sustainable development.

How can blue biomass contribute to a more sustainable built environment?

Abstract The implementation of a circular bioeconomy in the construction industry is a necessary strategy to tackle our global climate crisis. With any single solution having practical and environmental limitations, it is clear that creating a material palette of renewable biogenic building materials will expands access to bio-based construction. Photosynthetic organisms, including marine biomass such as seaweeds and microalgae, utilise solar energy to sequester CO₂, producing biomolecules that can be harnessed for a variety of biomaterials. Organisms such as mussels and oysters mineralise carbon into shells that are often dis-carded as residues. These second and third-generation feedstocks present an opportunity to decarbonise the construction industry. However, we need to better understand how to renew our relationship to this resource in a sustainable manner. This question seeks to explore how we can design and fabricate with, and for, blue biomass materials

An organic matter database (OMD): consolidating global residue data from agriculture, fisheries, forestry and related industries

Abstract. Agricultural, fishery, forestry and agro-processing activities produce large quantities of residues, by-products and waste materials every year. Inappropriate disposal and inefficient use of these resources contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and non-point pollution, placing significant environmental and economic burdens on society. Since many nations do not keep statistics on these materials, it has not been possible to accurately quantify the amounts produced, their competing uses and the quantities potentially available for recycling at a local level. Therefore, the objectives of the present work were to provide (1) definitions, typologies and methods to aid consistent classification, estimation and reporting of the various residues and by-products, (2) a global organic matter database (OMD) of residues and by-products from agriculture, fisheries, forestry and related industries and (3) regional and global estimates of residues and by-products potentially available for use in a circular bio-economy. To the best of our knowledge, the OMD is the first of its kind to consolidate quantities and nutrient concentrations of residues and by-products globally from agriculture, fisheries, forestry and related industries (available at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10450921; Sileshi et al., 2024). The OMD will be updated continuously as new production data are published in FAOSTAT and country-specific conversion coefficients become available. This information is expected to contribute to evidence-based policies and actions in support of sustainable utilization and the transition towards a circular economy. The database could be used for a variety of purposes, including estimation of residue availability for soil amendment, livestock feed, bioenergy and other industrial applications as well as assessment of the environmental impacts of residue management practices such as soil application and burning. The estimates in the OMD are only available at the national level. Due to the lack of a uniform methodology, conversion coefficients and data on competing uses across countries, it was difficult to accurately estimate the quantities of all agricultural, fishery and forestry residues and by-products. Therefore, we strongly recommend investment in the inventory of agricultural, fishery and forestry residues as well as by-products and wastes at the national and sub-national levels for use in a circular bio-economy.

Harnessing bioenergy potential of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii: A comprehensive characterization and valorization of biomass towards energy conversion under circular bioeconomy

Harnessing bioenergy potential of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii: A comprehensive characterization and valorization of biomass towards energy conversion under circular bioeconomy

Unveiling potential functional applications of grape pomace extracts based on their phenolic profiling, bioactivities, and circular bioeconomy

Abstract Grape pomace (GP), a by-residue from the wine industry, contains bioactive molecules such as phenolic compounds, and anthocyanins, among others, with potential health benefits. In the current study, these bioactive molecules were extracted from GP of different Vitis vinifera L. varieties (Tinta Negra, Complexa, Malvasia Roxa, Malvasia, Sercial, Verdelho, Boal, Terrantez) using the micro quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (µQuEChERS) procedure. The GP extracts were investigated using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC-PDA) to establish the phenolic fingerprint, and by in vitro assays to assess the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Nine phenolic compounds were identified and quantified in GP extracts, with gallic acid (ranging from 10.4 to 12.9 g/100 g), catechin (2.97 to 5.08 g/100 g), quercetin (2.17 to 2.85 g/100 g), and trans-resveratrol (0.28 to 1.82 g/100 g) being the most prominent. GP from the Complexa variety exhibited the highest levels of total anthocyanin content (TAC, 6.67 mgCGE/100 g), total phenolic compounds (TPC, 4727 mgGAE/100 g), and antioxidant activity (DPPH, 9472 mgTE/100 g), while the Tinta Negra variety had the highest total catechin content (TCC, 947 mgCATE/100 g). A strong correlation (p < 0.001) was observed between the TPC-TAC, TPC-DPPH, DPPH-TAC, and TAC-TCC. Moreover, o-coumaric acid and quercetin are significantly (p < 0.001) correlated with TPC, TAC, TCC, and DPPH assays. The investigated GP extracts, at a concentration of 100 µg/mL, showed promising inhibition of albumin protein denaturation compared to aspirin (reference standard). The findings showed that the GP extracts were more useful at inhibiting Staphylococcus aureus compared to Escherichia coli. It is important to emphasise that the GP extracts demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, positioning it as an agro-waste with promising potential for use in the development of innovative functional foods, dietary supplements, and cosmetics, aligning with the circular bioeconomy model for its valorisation.

Use of alfalfa cellulose for formulation of strong, biodegradable film to extend the shelf life of strawberries.

Plastic packaging has increased concerns about human health and the ecosystem due to non-biodegradability. Several biopolymers, such as cellulose, starch, and proteins, are being explored, and cellulosic residue from agricultural biomass is suitable to overcome this predicament. Herein, cellulosic residue fibers (ACR) extracted from alfalfa were used to prepare biodegradable films by solubilizing them in ZnCl2 solution and crosslinking the chains with calcium ions (CaCl2) and sorbitol. Box Behnken Design optimized the ACR, CaCl2, and sorbitol amounts against the responses of water vapor permeability (WVP), tensile strength (TS), and elongation at break (EB). The optimized film combination was found to be 0.5 g ACR, 461.3 mM CaCl2, and 1.05 % sorbitol, making a 12 × 12 cm2 film, with a TS of 16.9 ± 0.4 MPa, EB of 10.1 ± 0.3 %, and WVP of 0.47 ± 0.11×10-10 g.m-1.s-1.Pa-1. It was translucent, blocked UVB light, followed Peleg's water absorption kinetics, displayed anti-oxidant activity, and biodegraded within 35 days at 24 % soil moisture. The ACR film extends the shelf life of strawberries by two more days compared to polystyrene film. The outcome offers a novel path to utilize and conserve natural resources and mitigate plastic perils, promoting a circular bioeconomy and sustainability and a win-win situation between the environment and farmers.

Exploring the complexity of xylitol production in the fungal cell factory Aspergillus niger.

Production of xylitol from agricultural by-products offers a promising approach for the circular bioeconomy. This study investigates the roles of transcription factors XlnR and CreA in xylitol production from wheat bran in Aspergillus niger by generating strains with a constitutively active XlnR (XlnRc, V756F mutation) and/or deletion of creA, in a previously generated xylitol-producing strain. The XlnRc mutation increased the initial rate of xylitol production but lowered the overall accumulation. Deletion of creA in this strain significantly improved both the onset and rate of xylitol production, indicating an inhibitory role of CreA in the PCP. These results demonstrate the complexity of metabolic engineering to generate fungal cell factories for valuable biochemicals, such as xylitol, as not only metabolic but also multiple gene regulation aspects need to be considered.

Two-stage continuous cultivation of microalgae overexpressing cytochrome P450 improves nitrogen and antibiotics removal from livestock and poultry wastewater.

Improper treatment of livestock and poultry wastewater (LPWW) rich in ammonium nitrogen (NH4-N) and antibiotics leads to eutrophication, and contributes to the risk of creating drug-resistant pathogens. The design-build-test-learn strategy was used to engineer a continuous process using Chlorella vulgaris to remove NH4-N and antibiotics. The optimized system removed NH4-N at a rate of 306mg/L/d, degraded 99% of lincomycin, and reduced the hydraulic retention time to 4days. The physiological, metabolic, and genetic mechanisms used by microalgae to tolerate LPWW, remove NH4-N, and degrade antibiotics were elucidated. A new cytochrome P450 enzyme important for NH4-N and antibiotic removal was identified. Finally, application of synthetic biology improved the NH4-N removal rate to 470mg/L/d, which is the highest removal rate using microalgae reported to date. This research contributes to the mechanistic understanding of wastewater detoxification by microalgae, and the goal of achieving a circular bioeconomy for nutrient and water recycling.

Re-granulation and performance of anaerobically digested bacterial and algal-bacterial aerobic granular sludge.

Effective treatment and sustainable waste sludge management are critical challenges for future biorefinery wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). This study investigated the feasibility of re-granulating anaerobically digested bacterial and algal-bacterial aerobic granular sludge (AGS) for sustaining the continuous operation of the AGS-based WWTPs due to the requirement of long-term operation for granulation of flocculent activated sludge. Rapid re-granulation was achieved within 12 and 6 days respectively from digested bacterial AGS and algal-bacterial AGS, demonstrating their high stability and settleability even after anaerobic digestion (AD). The re-granulated bacterial AGS system exhibited >90% dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal, probably attributed to its greater microbial diversity and richness and elevated extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) secretion. The re-granulated algal-bacterial AGS system featured enhanced functional adaptability. It showed a lower average effluent dissolved total carbon concentration (∼100mg/L) and high total inorganic nitrogen removal (>89%) in addition to>56% maximum total phosphorus removal. Morphological observations revealed that some granules retained their compact structure and cores after AD, providing a niche for their re-granulation. Aromatic proteins and fulvic acid-like organics were the critical promoters for AGS regranulation. Notable shifts in microbial community structure, particularly the increase in abundance of photosynthetic bacteria such as Erythromicrobium, Leptolyngbya, and Rhodobacter, played an essential role in enhancing the overall performance of the re-granulated algal-bacterial AGS. By validating the system's effectiveness and exploring the factors governing re-granulation, this study proposes a viable strategy for advancing the sustainability of AGS-based WWTPs and promoting circular bioeconomy practices.

Perspective of nanocellulose production, processing, and application in sustainable agriculture and soil fertility enhancement: A potential review.

Nanocellulose, a promising green material derived from various bio-sources, has potentiality on and off-site in the agricultural sector. Due to its special qualities, which include high strength, hydrophilicity, and biocompatibility, it is a material that may be used in a variety of industries, especially agriculture. This review explores in this article production processes, post-processing procedures, and uses of nanocellulose in soil fertility increment and sustainable agriculture. A variety of plant materials, agricultural waste, and even microbes can be used to isolate nanocellulose. Nanocellulose is produced using both top-down and bottom-up methods, each of which has benefits and limitations of its own. It can be applied as nano-biofertilizer in agriculture to enhance beneficial microbial activity, increase nutrient availability, and improve soil health. Moreover, nanocellulose can be used in fertilizer and pesticide formulations with controlled releases to increase efficacy and lessen environmental effects. Innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture are provided by nanocellulose technologies, which also support the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those pertaining to eradicating hunger and encouraging responsible consumption. Nanocellulose promotes climate action and ecosystem preservation by increasing resource efficiency and decreasing dependency on hazardous chemicals, ultimately leading to the development of a circular bioeconomy. Nonetheless, there are still issues with the high cost of production and the energy-intensive isolation procedures. Despite its various potentialities, challenges such as high production costs, environmental concerns, and regulatory issues must be addressed for nanocellulose to be widely adopted and effectively integrated into farming practices.

Nanochitin: Green nanomaterial for sustainable applications in agriculture and environmental remediation.

The need for a green and sustainable nanomaterial sourced from biomass in the form of nanochitin has raised interest in paving the way towards incorporating biological resources for the production of functional materials. Nanochitin as nanofibers and nanocrystals/whiskers have attractive features like their ability to self-assemble into multidimensional biomaterials while retaining their intrinsic characteristics. Herein, the review discusses chitin's molecular association and hierarchical assemblies and gives an overview of the extraction methods adopted to produce nanochitin. Recent progress in the development of advanced functional nanochitin-based materials/composites and their current application in agriculture and environmental remediation are reviewed to gain a better understanding of their applicability for forthcoming research and improvement. Furthermore, the environmental impact assessment of chitin has been discussed, followed by the techno-economic analysis, thus providing scope for improvement in manufacturing and perspectives on the potential of nanochitin in the context of sustainable material and their role in circular bioeconomy.

Effluent from Winery Waste Biorefinery: A Strategic Input for Biomass Generation with Different Objectives to Add Value in Arid Regions

Agro-industrial activities generate significant amounts of organic waste and a variety of effluents thus posing environmental challenges. Viticulture in Argentina, which covered 204,847 ha in 2023, faces water scarcity as a limiting factor conditioning its production. This industry produces large volumes of grape marc, sediments, and stalks, which can be valorised into products like alcohol, tartaric acid, and compost. However, these valorisation processes generate effluents with high organic load and salinity, further stressing water resources. This study explores the potential of utilising these effluents to cultivate plant biomass in arid regions (sorghum or perennial pasture), which could serve as bioenergy, animal feed, or composting co-substrates, contributing to circular bioeconomy principles. The combined use of effluent as a water resource and the sowing of sorghum and pasture increased soil organic matter content and led to a slight reduction in pH (depth: 0.30–0.60 m) compared to the control treatment. The sorghum plots showed better establishment and higher dry biomass yield (32.6 Tn/ha) compared to the pasture plots (6.5 Tn/ha). Sorghum demonstrated better tolerance to saline soils and high salinity effluents, aligning with previous studies. Although pasture had a lower biomass yield, it was more efficient in nutrient uptake, concentrating more NPK, ash, and soluble salts. Sorghum’s higher yield compensated for its lower nutrient concentration. For biomass production, sorghum is preferable, but if nutrient capture from effluents is prioritised, summer polyphytic pastures are more suitable. These results suggest that the final selection between plant biomass alternatives highly depends on whether the goal is biomass generation or nutrient capture.

Bio-based polymers and biochar materials formulation derived from lignocellulosic biomass for controlled release phosphorus fertilizers.

The use of biochar is an interesting alternative to control release of P in soil and efficient use by plants. In this study, a new-coated slow-release P was developed by coating triple superphosphate (TSP) using different biochars (BC) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). This study employs an integrated lignocellulosic biorefinery methodology and circular bioeconomy concept, utilizing a cellulose derivative and biochar produced from macroalgal residues (BCA) and olive pomace (BCO). The study explores the impact of integrating these biochars into CMC matrix as coating materials. The findings demonstrated that the origin of biochar had an effect on the surface and mechanical attributes of the composites. Introducing biochar modified the mechanical proprieties, alongside an increase in the contact angle. However, the attrition of coated TSP seems to be high with high biochar content. An increase in water absorption was also observed with formulations containing more biochar. The release tests showed that the P release decreased up to 67 %, 78 % and 82 % within 30 days with CMC coatings in presence of BCO, BCV and BCA, respectively compared to 100 % with uncoated TSP fertilizer. However, no significant difference on P release was observed when varying the biochar content from 10 to 30 %.

Advancing sustainable agriculture through multi-omics profiling of biosolids for safe application: A review.

Biosolids, derived from wastewater treatment processes, are valuable resources for soil amendment in agriculture due to their nutrient-rich composition. However, various contaminants of concern (CEC) such as pharmaceuticals, per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, endocrine disruptive chemicals, surfactants, pathogens, nanoplastics, and microplastics, are also reported in biosolids. The use of biosolids for agriculture may introduce these CEC into the soil, which raises concerns about their environmental and human health impacts. Moreover, the presence of pathogens (Escherichia coli, Salmonella sp., Shigella, Giardia, Rotavirus, etc.) even after treatment calls for microbial profiling of biosolids, especially in developing countries. Multi-omics approaches can be used as powerful tools for characterizing microbial communities and highlighting metabolic pathways. Moreover, these approaches also help in predicting the ecological and agronomic effects of biosolids application in agricultural soils. This review discusses the advantages and challenges of using biosolids in agriculture, considering the range of different CEC reported in biosolids. Moreover, the current legislation for the use of biosolids in agriculture is also presented, highlighting the limitations with respect to guidelines for emerging contaminants in biosolids. Furthermore, the role of the multi-omics approach in biosolids management, focusing on genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics is also assessed. Multi-omics also allows for real-time monitoring, ensuring continuous optimization of biosolids towards changing environmental conditions. This dynamic approach not only enhances the safe use, but also enhances the sustainability of waste management practices, minimizing the negative effects. Finally, the future research directions for integrating the multi-omics approach into biosolid management practices are also suggested. The need for updating the legislative framework, continued innovation to promote sustainable and robust agricultural systems, bringing the process closer to the principles of a circular bioeconomy is also empahasized.

Towards circularity for agro-waste: Minimal soil hazards of olive pomace bioconverted frass by insect larvae as an organic fertilizer.

As global populations escalate and the demand for food and feed intensifies, the generation of agri-food waste is becoming an increasingly critical issue. Addressing this challenge is crucial for optimizing food production and advancing sustainable waste management practices. In this context, insects, including the Black Soldier Fly (BSF, Hermetia illucens), present opportunities for circularity through the bioconversion of organic waste. Olive pomace (OP), a by-product of the olive oil industry, is known for its phytotoxic properties due to its high phenolic content and acidic pH. Using BSF for OP bioconversion could mitigate the environmental disposal of this by-product while producing valuable resources such as protein, fats, and insect frass. Insect frass is the excrement of insects that can be used as an entomofertilizer. Building from BSF feeding on OP, this study aimed to evaluate the safety of applying the resultant frass in soil amendment applications for the first time. Here are explored the effects of olive pomace-derived frass (OP-BSFfrass) on soil health and plant growth by evaluating the soil model invertebrate Enchytraeus crypticus and phytotoxicity bioassays using the forage crop ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and the agricultural species broccoli (Brassica oleracea). Our methodologies included direct soil applications and aqueous extract tests, with a range of OP-BSFfrass concentrations (from 0 to 9.8% w/w) and observation periods (2 and 32d). Despite initial concerns over the phytotoxic nature of OP, our findings revealed that OP-BSFfrass did not adversely affect the survival of E. crypticus and even enhanced its reproductive success. Furthermore, while higher frass concentrations elicited some adverse effects on plant germination and growth, these were limited to levels unlikely to be used in practical applications. The outcomes of this study suggest that OP-BSFfrass could be safely integrated into the soil as a fertilizer, promoting a circular bio-economy by converting waste into economically and environmentally friendly products. This study underscores the potential of insects in transforming waste management paradigms and enhancing food security, particularly in regions like the Mediterranean, thus contributing to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.

Dairy Wastewaters to Promote Mixotrophic Metabolism in Limnospira (Spirulina) platensis: Effect on Biomass Composition, Phycocyanin Content, and Fatty Acid Methyl Ester Profile

This study explores the mixotrophic cultivation of Limnospira platensis using dairy byproducts, specifically scotta whey (SW), buttermilk wastewater (BMW), and dairy wastewater (DWW), to promote biomass production and enhance the composition of bioactive compounds. By assessing various concentrations (1%, 2%, and 4% v v−1) of these byproducts in a modified growth medium, this study aims to evaluate their effect on L. platensis growth, phycocyanin (C-PC) content, and fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiles. The results show that the optimal biomass production was achieved with 2% scotta and dairy wastewater, reaching maximum concentrations of 3.30 g L−1 and 3.19 g L−1, respectively. Mixotrophic cultivation led to increased C-PC yields, especially in buttermilk and dairy wastewater treatments, highlighting the potential for producing valuable pigments. Additionally, the FAME profiles indicated minimal changes compared to the control, with oleic and γ-linolenic acids being dominant in mixotrophic conditions. These findings support the viability of utilizing dairy byproducts for sustainable L. platensis cultivation, contributing to a circular bioeconomy while producing bioactive compounds of nutritional and commercial interest.

Extraction of lignin from Duabanga grandiflora and its valorization for nanocomposite development with enhanced mechanical and UV shielding properties

Abstract In this study, we report on extracting lignin (EL) from Duabanga grandiflora (Khukon), an untapped wood source, and its transformation into nano-lignin (NL) to create durable and thermally stable composites. Utilizing ultrasonication, we synthesized spherical lignin nanoparticles with an average size of 8 nm, as verified by High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM). These nanoparticles were integrated into a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and guar gum (GG) matrix, resulting in PVA-GG-nano-lignin (PGNL) composites. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-Guar gum (GG) nanocomposite films containing various contents of lignin nano-particles (1, 2 and 3 wt%) were formulated by a simple solvent cast method and cross-linked by adding borax. Addition of 1wt% lignin nanoparticles brought in the composite films with 29.8MPa tensile strength and 139.3% elongation at break. Compared to PVA-GG-lignin (PGL) composites, the PGNL composites exhibited a 59.4% increase in tensile strength and enhanced elongation at break and good thermal degradation properties. Notably, the PGNL composite films were transparent but could shield 99.9% of the UV-A (320-400 nm) and UV-B (280-320 nm) radiations, marking a significant advancement in UV protective materials. Our innovative use of Duabanga grandiflora-derived nano-lignin in a dual-polymer network not only underscores the potential of renewable resources in high-performance applications but also aligns with the principles of a circular bioeconomy by offering a sustainable solution for effective UV protection.

Valorization of Agri-Food Waste into PHA and Bioplastics: From Waste Selection to Transformation

The valorization of agri-food waste is a pivotal component in developing the circular economy, wherein waste is given a second life through various conversion technologies. This review aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge on the valorization of agri-food waste, with a particular focus on volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and subsequent bioplastics production. To this end, a comprehensive literature search was conducted using specialist bibliographic databases. The study primarily focuses on reviewing the biological production of PHBV (poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)), a type of PHA, due to its relevance as a substitute for fossil-based plastics. Significant attention has been directed toward exploring the potential of agri-food wastes, such as whey, potato peelings, and brewery bagasse, as raw materials for their transformation into a tailor-made VFA solution, rich in valeric and propionic acids. Additionally, existing operational strategies and waste co-treatments have been reviewed. The produced VFAs present multiple applications, including single-cell oils, Omega-3-rich oils, and different types of PHA. Factors influencing the bio-polymerization of VFAs to PHBV, such as the type of substrate, operating conditions (pH and retention time), and the presence of specific microorganisms, have also been reviewed. Due to its physicochemical properties, PHBV has applications in sectors such as agriculture and packaging. This review concludes that transforming agri-food waste into PHBV has the potential to integrate environmental and economic benefits within a circular bioeconomy model, fostering technological innovation and the sustainable use of waste resources.

Sustainable Skincare Innovation: Cork Powder Extracts as Active Ingredients for Skin Aging.

Background: An emerging practice within the concept of circular beauty involves the upcycling of agro-industrial by-products. Cork processing, for instance, yields by-products like cork powder, which presents an opportunity to create value-added cosmetic ingredients. Building upon our previous research, demonstrating the antioxidant potential of hydroalcoholic extracts derived from two distinct cork powders (P0 and P1), in this work, aqueous extracts were prepared and analyzed. The safety and bioactivities of the newly obtained aqueous extracts, as well as the 30% ethanol extracts, previously reported to be the most promising for skin application, were also evaluated. Methods: Aqueous extracts were obtained from cork powders (P0 and P1) and the identification and quantification of some polyphenols was achieved by liquid chromatography (LC). Antioxidant potential was screened by DPPH method and the bioactivity and safety of extracts were further explored using cell-based assays. Results: All extracts exhibited a reduction in age-related markers, including senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity. Additionally, they demonstrated a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect by suppressing the production of several pro-inflammatory mediators in macrophages upon lipopolysaccharide stimulation. Moreover, the extracts upregulated genes and proteins associated with antioxidant activity, such as heme oxygenase 1. The aqueous extract from P1 powder was especially active in reducing pro-inflammatory mediators, namely the Nos2 gene, inducible nitric oxide protein levels, and nitric oxide production. Moreover, it did not induce skin irritation, as assessed by the EpiSkin test, in compliance with the OECD Test Guidelines. Conclusions: Overall, our findings underscore the potential of aqueous extracts derived from cork waste streams to mitigate various hallmarks of skin aging, including senescence and inflammaging, and their suitability for incorporation into cosmetics formulations. These results warrant further exploration for their application in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries and could foster a sustainable and circular bioeconomy.

Rekal Remineralizer as an Alternative to Potassium Fertilization in Soybean Cultivation

The agricultural sector seeks regional solutions to reduce environmental impact and to develop practices that consider the assumptions of the circular bioeconomy, in addition, to meeting the objectives set out in the 2030 agenda of the United Nations. In this context, Brazil leads research with soil remineralizers to contribute to regenerative agriculture and to have greater sovereignty in the use of natural inputs. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of the remineralizer of Rekal soils in soybean commercial areas in the State of Goiás, verifying the availability and mobility of potassium in soils compared to using soluble source (KCl). The methodology adopted was the application of doses of a Rekal remineralizer in four commercial areas in the municipalities of Santa Rita do Novo Destino/GO, Mimoso de Goiás/GO, and Niquelândia/GO, in rainfed and irrigated systems. The experimental design was the same for all experimental fields, randomized blocks made with four experimental treatments and four replications. The treatments were constituted of the farm standard using KCl (potassium chloride), as the only supplier of K2O demand, and three different doses of a Rekal remineralizer of soils. The parameters evaluated were the determination of the residual potassium content in the soil at three depths (0 to 10 cm, 0 to 20 cm, and 20 to 40 cm); determination of potassium leaf concentrations; determination of potassium concentrations in the grains; yield and weight of one thousand grains (PMG). The remineralizer of Rekal soils did not show significant differences, compared to the use of KCl (potassium chloride), in the variables of potassium content (soil, leaf, and grain) productivity and PMG in different productive environments in a commercial study of soybean cultivation in the Cerrado Goiano.