Cleaner Production Process Research Articles

Factors associated with the adoption of eco-innovation and its effect on environmental performance in the US household cleaning sector

This study investigates the influence of external and internal factors on eco-innovation and the impact of its adoption on firms' environmental performance. We mainly examined process eco-innovation, which provides eco-friendly alternatives to the raw materials, machines, and energy sources used in the firms' production processes that could harm the environment. Using a survey, we gathered data from 118 publicly listed household cleaning and personal care companies on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Results of the structural equation model revealed that regulatory pressure, consumer demand, and green corporate image could induce the adoption of process eco-innovation, while environmental subsidies do not. In addition, our findings indicated that environmental management systems (EMS), technological capabilities, and managerial environmental concerns spur process eco-innovation adoption. We also found that process eco-innovation can significantly improve firms' environmental performance, indicating that cleaner production processes are important for pollution prevention. This work contributes to existing knowledge of eco-innovation, especially in terms of its regional and industry focus, and provides significant implications for policy and practice.

An analysis of the textural properties of activated carbons obtained from biomass via the LBET, NLDFT and QSDFT methods

This article presents the unique research results of the comprehensive analysis of the porous structure of activated carbons obtained from biomass waste materials from the wood industry during activation in an air atmosphere. The porous structure was analysed on the basis of nitrogen and argon adsorption isotherms via complementary multi-method analysis, i.e. the new numerical clustering-based adsorption analysis, the non-local density functional theory and the quenched solid density functional theory methods. The analytical results for the prepared activated carbons were compared with analogous results obtained for commercial activated carbon. On the basis of the conducted studies it has been determined that the new numerical clustering-based adsorption analysis method gives credible and valuable information on the textural properties of activated carbons which are in strict correlation and mutually complement with the results of the analysis with the use of the quenched solid density functional theory method. The research results obtained in this paper, it has also been shown that from waste materials of the wood industry, in a relatively cheap and cleaner production process, it is possible not only to obtain carbonaceous materials almost comparable to commercial activated carbon, but also to manage the waste in accordance with the principles of a closed-loop economy and sustainable development. The paper pays also attention to the often overlooked economic and ecological aspects, which should nevertheless be taken into account when comparing different adsorbents, rather than their textural properties alone.

Impact of nanoparticle shape on the thermal performance of eco-friendly soybean-based nanofluids in cooling titanium alloys

Ecofriendly soybean coolant offers a sustainable alternative to conventional coolants, providing excellent thermal performance while reducing environmental impact. Its biodegradable nature and low toxicity make it a safe choice for various cooling applications, promoting greener industrial practices. This study investigates the thermal performance of eco-friendly soybean nanofluids dispersed with alumina and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoparticles for cooling a titanium alloy block. The investigations are conducted using single and dual nozzle setup to assess the impact of nanoparticle shape, volume fraction and Reynolds number on heat transfer characteristics of ecofriendy coolant. The discretization is conducted using the finite volume method, and the Nusselt number is calculated from the convective heat transfer coefficient. Results show that platelet-shaped nanoparticles exhibit superior thermal conductivity and heat transfer performance compared to spherical and cylindrical shapes. Increasing the volume fraction of MoS2 platelet-shaped nanoparticles from 0.5% to 6% results in a reduction of the average temperature distribution of the titanium block by 26.53% in the single-nozzle setup and 28.87% in the dual-nozzle configuration. The dual nozzle arrangements significantly enhance heat dissipation, with MoS2 nanoparticles decreasing the temperature distribution by 9.24% in the single-nozzle setup and 15.78% in the dual-nozzle setup compared to alumina nanoparticles. Optimal thermal performance is observed at elevated Reynolds numbers, where platelet-shaped MoS2 nanoparticles achieve the highest Nusselt numbers. Specifically, incorporating MoS2 cylindrical-shaped nanoparticles into soybean oil at higher Reynolds numbers improves average heat transfer by up to 29.16% when compared to cylindrical alumina nanoparticles. The enhancements in heat transfer for spherical and platelet-shaped MoS2 nanoparticles are 37.51% and 46.66%, respectively, relative to cylindrical alumina particles. This research offers crucial guidance on developing and enhancing sustainable coolants, revealing the significance of nanoparticle shape in optimizing thermal performance and paving the way for cleaner production processes that prioritize environmental responsibility.

Performance assessment of graphene oxide based nano-cutting fluids during sustainable hard turning through synthesis, characterization and machinability investigation

Achieving sustainability in manufacturing necessitates the implementation of eco-friendly solutions by adopting environmentally friendly coolants with cost-effective, energy-efficient and cleaner production processes without posing any risk to the operator's health. In this current work, mineral oil-based graphene oxide (GO) nano-cutting fluids of different concentration (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 % wt.) are synthesized and their characteristics such as rheological, thermo-physical and tribological properties along with their stability and toxicology impact are thoroughly investigated. Further, the influence of nano-cutting fluid concentration on machinability and sustainability aspects during hard turning such as flank wear, surface integrity, power consumption, cutting temperature, carbon and noise emissions are investigated. According to the result an enhancement of 28.83 % and 29.54 % in viscosity and thermal conductivity have been recorded when concentration of nanofluid increases from 0.05 % to 0.5 %. GO nano-cutting fluids shows anti wear and friction reduction properties by providing excellent lubricious properties, as a result coefficient of friction has been reduced up to 28.36 % at 0.5 % wt. GO compared to plane mineral oil. A notable reduction in flank wear, cutting temperature, surface roughness, cutting temperature, power consumption, carbon emission and noise emission were noticed to be 25.96 %, 27.82 %, 23.86 %, 25.22 %, 11.66 % and 2.72 % respectively when the concentration of GO nanoparticles increases from 0.05 % to 0.5 % wt. Smoother surface with minimal defect has been noticed from the SEM and AFM image of machined workpiece at highest concentration (0.5 % wt.) of GO due to the synergetic effect of GO nano-cutting fluid and dual nozzle MQL system.

Simplified efficiency calibration methods for scintillation detectors used in nuclear remediation

Our study introduces innovative methods to address waste reduction and enhance resource efficiency in nuclear cleanup processes. We focus on sustainable nuclear technology, aligning with goals for cleaner production and environmental protection. We developed two novel methods, termed “oversimplified” and “simplified,” for easily determining the photopeak efficiency of NaI(Tl) scintillation detectors. These methods, along with a “general” solution method, were validated with calibrated radioactive sources such as 241Am, 57Co, 133Ba, 137Cs, and 60Co, and were used to commission a NaI(Tl) scintillation detector system at Chalk River Laboratories (CRL) for nuclear remediation. The system demonstrated high accuracy, making it suitable for screening unstable isotopes at contaminated sites. This screening tool significantly reduces the number of soil samples requiring detailed characterization, thereby lowering operational costs. The NaI(Tl) detector system was calibrated for near-contact geometry, which is commonly used at CRLs. Detection limits were established for this configuration. By improving the efficiency calibration of scintillation detectors, our study advances sustainable nuclear remediation practices, promoting environmental sustainability and cleaner production processes.

Exploration and multi performance evaluation of process intensification for separation of ethyl tert-butyl ether/ethanol from wastewater

Ethyl tert-butyl ether is a green gasoline additive that enhances fuel efficiency and can play an essential role in improving fuel performance. This study explored the separation of wastewater containing ethyl tert-butyl ether and ethanol by changing the pressure and adding reactions based on extractive distillation, using the synergistic effect of the entrainer, pressure, and chemical reaction. By utilizing coupling technology and process intensification concepts, developed a comprehensive series of intensified processes that have clarified the interaction mechanisms between the extractive distillation process (EDP), pressure swing extractive distillation process (PSEDP), and reactive extractive distillation process (REDP). Studying the separation and purification mechanisms of products and intermediates during the reaction process provides theoretical and practical support for optimizing chemical processes. Comparative analysis showed that the reactive extraction pressure swing distillation process (REPSDP) had preeminent economic and environmental benefits. The total annual cost of PSEDP, REDP, and REPSDP was reduced by 5.88 %, 1.68 %, and 10.08 %, respectively, compared with EDP. The gas emissions of PSEDP, REDP, REPSDP, and REPSDP with heat integration process (HI-REPSDP) are all lower than those of EDP. HI-REPSDP saves 47.59 % of gas emissions compared to EDP, highlighting its environmental benefits. HI-REPSDP has the best energy efficiency, reducing energy consumption by 47.58 % compared to EDP, significantly improving the energy utilization rate. It was found that the introduction of heat integration technology had a significant improvement effect. This research has crucial theoretical and practical value and provides guidance and reference for achieving a clean and efficient production process.

Digitalization and Automation and AI: A Theoretical Framework of rethinking the Pollution Haven Hypothesis

This theoretical paper investigates the impact of digitalization, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) on environmental regulations, specifically through the lens of the Pollution Haven Hypothesis (PHH). It explores how these advancements influence pollution intensity and environmental compliance costs, challenging the traditional understanding of the PHH. Methodology. The study employs a Cobb-Douglas production function to model the relationship between technological innovations and environmental regulations. By integrating digitalization, automation, and AI into the model, the paper examines how these factors affect the economic incentives for firms to relocate to regions with lenient environmental standards. Findings. The analysis reveals that advancements in digitalization and automation reduce pollution intensity and lower the costs of complying with strict environmental standards. As a result, the economic incentive to relocate to pollution havens diminishes. In an open economy, the combination of stringent environmental policies and technological innovations leads to reduced pollution levels and a shift toward cleaner production processes. Practical Implication. The findings suggest that integrating technological innovations into environmental policy can make adherence to stricter regulations more economically viable, thereby weakening the appeal of pollution havens. This has significant implications for global sustainability efforts, as it highlights the potential for technology to support more effective and equitable environmental regulations. Originality. This study introduces a novel perspective by directly linking technological innovations to shifts in capital allocation and the efficacy of environmental policies. It offers a fresh understanding of the PHH in the context of modern advancements, providing new understanding into the relationship between innovation and environmental regulation.

Stock Market Development and Environmental Sustainability in Saudi Arabia: Asymmetry Analysis

Stock Market Development (SMD) can have positive or negative environmental effects by providing the capital to clean or dirty production processes, respectively. The present study investigates the effect of SMD on CO2 emissions in Saudi Arabia from 1985 to 2022 by conducting symmetrical and asymmetrical analyses. The results validate the environmental Kuznets curve in both symmetrical and asymmetrical analyses. The turning point of the curve is found at 61500 SR and 49944 of income per capita in symmetrical and asymmetrical analyses, respectively, in the long run. The turning points are found at 65895 SR and 54979 SR in the symmetrical and asymmetrical models, respectively, in the short run. All points are within the range of sample period’s income. Thus, Saudi economic growth has no environmental problems. Moreover, SMD and increasing SMD help reduce CO2 emissions in the long run with elasticity parameters 0.8548 and 0.9854 in symmetrical and asymmetrical models, respectively. Thus, SMD should further be focused to have pleasant environmental effects in Saudi Arabia.

The role of state regulation in ensuring the "green" transformation of the national economy

Green transformation of the state’s economy is an important aspect of modern economic policy aimed at ensuring sustainable development and minimizing the negative impact on the environment. This process involves a transition from traditional economic models based on fossil fuels and significant consumption of natural resources to more environmentally friendly and energy efficient technologies. Such a transformation helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce environmental pollution, and preserve natural resources for future generations. The use of energy-efficient sources helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels and ensures the stability of energy supply in the long term. In addition, the introduction of energy-efficient technologies in various sectors of the economy allows to significantly reduce energy consumption and costs of its production, which has a positive effect on economic indicators and the ecological situation in the country. The transition to more ecologically clean production processes and technologies, as well as the introduction of electric vehicles and other environmentally safe types of transport, allows to significantly reduce the amount of harmful emissions into the atmosphere. This helps to improve air quality, reduce the level of diseases associated with environmental pollution, and increase the general standard of living of the population. The green transformation of the economy also involves the active participation of the state in the formation of the appropriate regulatory and legal framework and the creation of economic incentives for enterprises and citizens. Tax breaks, subsidies, public investment in green technologies and infrastructure are important tools to support this process. At the same time, increasing public awareness of the importance of environmental responsibility and involving the public in decision-making contributes to the formation of an environmentally conscious society. Thus, the green transformation of the economy is a complex process that requires the efforts of the state, business and civil society. It ensures not only environmental safety, but also sustainable economic development, improving the quality of life of the population, and preserving natural resources for future generations.

Effect of energy consumption, foreign direct investment, and economic growth on greenhouse gas emissions in OPEC member states: evidence from panel data analysis

Our paper explores the impact of energy consumption, foreign direct investment, and economic expansion on greenhouse gas emissions in OPEC member states. A panel data of 12 out of 13 OPEC nations over the period 1983 to 2022 obtained from the World Development Indicators is used. The autoregressive distributed lag simulation was adopted to determine the correlation among the series. Our estimations unveil that economic growth in the member states contributes 7.47 per cent to greenhouse gas emissions for every 1 percent increase, trade flow tends to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 0.37 per cent for every 1 percent rise. Though the impact of foreign direct investment on greenhouse gas emissions in the OPEC member states is negative, it is statistically insignificant. The positive association between energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions emphasizes the need for OPEC countries to move to cleaner energy sources in order to reduce environmental damage. A proactive approach to investing in clean technology is critical for governments and companies in OPEC countries. This includes supporting research and development of renewable energy sources, encouraging the adoption of environmentally-safe practices in industry and fostering innovation to promote sustainable development. Strict environmental standards for industries that contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions should be adopted and enforced. This includes: Setting caps on emissions, advocating for cleaner production processes, and imposing penalties for non-compliance with environmental regulations. Sustainable practices should be encouraged through tax incentives, subsidies, and other financial mechanisms designed to incentivized companies to adopt environmentally friendly processes. The implications of these findings for policymakers and future studies are discussed.

Greenhouse gas emissions and carbon and water footprints during processing of Lei bamboo shoots

Lei bamboo shoots are extensively used in the food processing industry, producing solid waste such as bamboo shoot shells and liquid wastewater. This study analyzed several sewage indicators, revealing that the majority exceed the national standards of China for direct water discharge. A field experiment was conducted over a period of 4 months to evaluate the effects of different treatments during the natural decomposition of bamboo shoot shells.The treatment groups consisted of the boiled experimental group (EG) and the control group (CG). Results showed that in EG, the methane emission increased by 8.6% (P < 0.05), the carbon dioxide emission increased significantly by 19.7% (P < 0.01), and the nitrous oxide emission decreased by 37.9% (P < 0.01) relative to those in CG. Regression analysis was employed to establish a relationship model between CH4, CO2, and N2O emission fluxes and temperature and humidity in the EG and CG groups. A specific functional relationship was identified between CH4 and CO2 emission fluxes and temperature and humidity, but N2O emission was present. No significant correlation was found between flux and ambient temperature and humidity (R2 < 0.3). We also estimated that the carbon dioxide emissions and water consumption of producing 1 kg of canned bamboo shoots were 2.8669 kg and 86.8 L, covering the processes in the life cycle of bamboo shoot products. This study identifies the potential water pollution problems and provides insights into resource utilization and recycling in bamboo shoot food processing, facilitating the realization of clean production processes. It also sheds light on the water footprint of bamboo shoot products throughout their life cycle, and the carbon footprint research provides valuable references.

Exploration and practice of cleaner production of titanium dioxide by sulfuric acid process

In China, titanium dioxide production is still based on sulfuric acid process which suffers from high energy consumption, serious pollution and long process. For solves the traditional problems, cleaner production is an effective way for the high-quality development and comprehensive green transformation of sulfate titanium dioxide industry. Taking a titanium dioxide company in Panzhihua as an example, this paper expounds the exploration and practice of utilizing advanced process equipment to transform the original specific process and improve the clean production process and equipment. The company has upgraded the continuous acidolysis process, VCE (Vapor-Condense-Evaporate) crystallization process and MVR (Mechanical Vapor Recompression) concentration process for the three core sections with serious waste and energy consumption, and effectively coupled with the other original sections. Through the analysis of production operation, the new process significantly improves the comprehensive resources utilization efficiency of titanium, sulfur and iron, improves the working environment of labors, and reduces the energy consumption, the amount of three wastes and the production cost. Company in the gradual realization of cleaner production, made beneficial exploration.

How Does a Decision-Making Tool Enhance Spent Mushroom Substrate Valorization into Polysaccharides?

In mushroom farming, one kilogram harvested results in about five kilograms of spent mushroom substrate (SMS), posing an environmental management challenge. As an in-tune work with the concepts of circular economy, cleaner production, and waste minimization, this study has developed a mathematical model than analyzes the valorization potential of SMS through polysaccharide production. The in-depth mathematical model is based on a system dynamics approach, which explains the interactive interplay amongst the production process, related costs, energy consumption, and caused emissions. The model has been developed in a generic way. Meaning that it can be re-adjusted flexibly for a different cleaner production process. A user-friendly interface has been developed. Users can easily maneuver around the variables within the model that offers instantaneous insight into the environmental and economic impacts of SMS valorization. This interface was later integrated into an educational context to serve as an interactive decision-making tool for cleaner production modelling. The main purpose of the developed tool was to favor understanding of causalities between production chains, energy consumption, labor, emissions, and expenses. This tool has been tested on master’s degree students in a cleaner production course. Survey results show that 82% of students report the need to incorporate similar decision-making tools in their learning curriculum. In sum, the application of system dynamics to the valorization of SMS does not only present an attractive solution for this environmental problem but also shows great potential in setting educational backgrounds for an interactive and close-to-life learning process. It is recommended to develop more interactive tools available for students.

Balancing clean and quality production goals: A multi-analytical approach to scrutinizing the influencing factors in China's manufacturing industry

Under the strategies of "high-quality development" and "dual carbon goals", the manufacturing industry in China is confronted with the simultaneous challenges of ensuring the production of high-quality goods and adopting environmentally friendly production practices. The integration of cleaner production and quality management has received widespread attention; however, existing research cannot comprehensively identify the interactive factors between quality management and cleaner production and analyze their mechanism of action. This research employed a multi-faceted approach involving meetings, interviews, and online data to access primary materials, and complemented by grounded theory and quality tool (5M1E), a total of 18 quality factors that exert a substantial impact on the attainment of clean production objectives were ultimately identified. To meticulously assess the interrelationships among factors, this study employed the interval value hesitant preference relationship DEMATEL-AISM technique. The findings of the study emphasize the significance of Employee Quality Skill Level (F1) and Production Environment Quality (F15) as critical quality factors that should be given priority and careful consideration by managers aiming for a cleaner production process. The results of this study have the potential to enhance the manufacturing industry's ability to predict and prevent quality and environmental issues, thereby ensuring the long-term sustainability of clean production and effective quality management.

A comprehensive review on unleashing the power of hydrogen: revolutionizing energy systems for a sustainable future.

Population growth and environmental degradation are major concerns for sustainable development worldwide. Hydrogen is a clean and eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels, with a heating value almost three times higher than other fossil fuels. It also has a clean production process, which helps to reduce the emission of hazardous pollutants and save the environment. Among the various production methodologies described in this review, biochemical production of hydrogen is considered more suitable as it uses waste organic matter instead of fossil fuels. This technology not only produces clean energy but also helps to manage waste more efficiently. However, the production of hydrogen obtained from this method is currently more expensive due to its early stage of development. Nevertheless, various research projects are underway to develop this method on a commercial scale.

Effect of microscale C–S–H on the properties of Portland cement and hydration kinetics analysis at different curing temperatures

Microscale calcium–silicate–hydrate (C–S–H) is easily accessible and readily storable, enabling a cleaner production process of cement-waste grinding and simple chemical synthesis technology. However, the temperature effects of microscale C–S–H require further exploration. In this study, we evaluated the impact of microscale C–S–H admixture on the properties of Portland cement at different curing temperatures. Microscale C–S–H can not only increase the early strength of cement pastes, but also achieve high strength in the long term. Adding microscale C–S–H to cement can effectively reduce the apparent activation energy Ea of hydration products and accelerate the reaction of C3S and C2S with water and form more hydration products. At a curing temperature of 10 °C, the microscale C–S–H increased the 1 d compressive strength by 70.0% and shortened the hydration induction period by 1.2 h. Microscale C–S–H also increased the 12 h hydration degree by 38.1%. Microscale C–S–H promoted the formation of CH and xonotlite-like C–S–H and changed the composition of hydrates, although the effects diminished with increasing curing temperature. This paper offers theoretical and fundamental data on the usage of microscale C–S–H as an admixture in cement-based materials.

Carbon Footprint Enhancement of an Agricultural Telehandler through the Application of a Fuel Cell Powertrain

The growing awareness about climate change and environmental pollution is pushing the industrial and academic world to investigate more sustainable solutions to reduce the impact of anthropic activities. As a consequence, a process of electrification is involving all kind of vehicles with a view to gradually substitute traditional powertrains that emit several pollutants in the exhaust due to the combustion process. In this context, fuel cell powertrains are a more promising strategy, with respect to battery electric alternatives where productivity and endurance are crucial. It is important to replace internal combustion engines in those vehicles, such as the those in the sector of Non-Road Mobile Machinery. In the present paper, a preliminary analysis of a fuel cell powertrain for a telehandler is proposed. The analysis focused on performance, fuel economy, durability, applicability and environmental impact of the vehicle. Numerical models were built in MATLAB/Simulink and a simple power follower strategy was developed with the aim of reducing components degradation and to guarantee a charge sustaining operation. Simulations were carried out regarding both peak power conditions and a typical real work scenario. The simulations’ results showed that the fuel cell powertrain was able to achieve almost the same performances without excessive stress on its components. Indeed, a degradation analysis was conducted, showing that the fuel cell system can achieve satisfactory durability. Moreover, a Well-to-Wheel approach was adopted to evaluate the benefits, in terms of greenhouse gases, of adopting the fuel cell system. The results of the analysis demonstrated that, even if considering grey hydrogen to feed the fuel cell system, the proposed powertrain can reduce the equivalent CO2 emissions of 69%. This reduction can be further enhanced using hydrogen from cleaner production processes. The proposed preliminary analysis demonstrated that fuel cell powertrains can be a feasible solution to substitute traditional systems on off-road vehicles, even if a higher investment cost might be required.

Cutting ties with local bureaucrats: How does the environmental vertical management reform affect firm pollution in China?

China's local environmental protection agencies are the basic government units that implement the country's environmental regulations. Initiated decades ago, the vertical environmental management reform was gradually rolled out throughout the country with the aim of enhancing the independence of local environmental enforcement by shifting the control of the agencies' resources from local governments to higher-level environmental protection authorities. This research investigates the effects and influencing channels of this reform on firm pollution behavior in China. Combining manually collected data on the timing of the reform at the county level with a unique firm-level emission dataset, we use a difference-in-differences approach to estimate the effect of the reform. Our results suggest that the reform leads to a significant reduction in firms' pollution, and this reduction is achieved mainly through a scaled-back production and a cleaner production process. A further analysis shows that the reform weakens local bureaucrats' political and economic incentives that could distort environmental enforcement. Our findings highlight the importance of minimizing political interventions in environmental governance in a large country like China to achieve environmental targets.

An Integrated Business Model Based on Linear Programming for Carrageenan Production Chain in Coastal Village

The blue economy concept is a development program that harmonizes economic growth, social equity, and a sustainable environment. In coastal villages, economic growth could be promoted by selecting a high-value and competitive local-based product, selecting a clean production process with renewable energy, proper waste management, and involving people who live in the coastal area. The research is carried out in Padike village, Talango district, Poteran island, Sumenep, East of Java supported by the vocational high school in Padike and the University of Wiraraja, Sumenep as a partnership institution, and involving people living in Poteran island. An integrated business model based on linear programming was designed to perform a carrageenan production chain that consists of modern seaweed cultivation farming, a high-quality seaweed drying dome, a clean carrageenan processing shop with zero waste management, and clean renewable energy. The model developed based on linear programming was run into 2 different scenarios. The first scenario focuses on the optimization in each production station and the second scenario focuses on the carrageenan production itself. From the different scenarios, we obtained that the second scenario resulted in an appealing opportunity. As a result, an integrated business model for managing the carrageenan production chain has been initiated, and as a practical example of the blue economy model which ensures the proper balance between economic growth, social equity, and a sustainable environment.

Rational engineering and fabrication of efficient nanophotocatalysts based on ZnO-SrO-CdS for pharmaceutical pollutants based wastewater degradation

Cleaner production processes in conjunction with sustainability is the main requirement for clean and cost-effective industrial process. Moreover, the rapid growth of the world population in conjunction with limited sources of drinking water anticipated water crisis in many countries. Herein, indirect Z-scheme ZnO-3%SrO-2CdS photocatalyst was fabricated for the first time via thermal treatment and well identified by XRD, FT-IR, SEM, EDX and, XPS, meanwhile, the optical properties were evaluated using DRS, PL, and EPR analyses. The photocatalytic activity of noble metal free ZnO-3%SrO-2CdS was investigated in the photodegradation of six antibiotics, namely tetracycline, doxycycline, ofloxacin, amoxicillin, cephalexin, and sulfamethoxazole. Furthermore, kinetic study, pH, initial concentration, dosage, mass ratio, photoreactor type and different water source parameters have been investigated. Results demonstrated a high removal efficiency of tetracycline by ZnO-3%SrO-2CdS of 98.8% within 120 min at pH 7 and dosage 10 mg. This high efficiency could be attributed to SrO channels that facilitate charge migration process and conserve electrons/holes with high redox power for reactive oxygen species production. Besides, the hydroponics study to examine the phytotoxicity of treated tetracycline solution reflected the effectiveness of the treating process since T. foenum-graecum seeds were germinated successfully in the treated tetracycline solution.