Abstract: Piggery farming is the largest source of livestock manure in South Korea, generating about 40% of total livestock waste annually. Yet greenhouse gas (GHG) emission data from piggery wastewater treatment systems remain limited, with most studies focused on farm slurry storage rather than process-level emissions. This study quantified methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O) fluxes from a full-scale piggery wastewater treatment facility in, to develop process, season, specific and diurnal specific emission fluxes. Continuous monitoring with a laser-based gas analyzer and customized PVC air-pool chamber was conducted across raw, anaerobic, and aerobic wastewater treatment stages. Mean CH₄ fluxes ranged 1.1-15.6 mg s⁻¹ m⁻², peaking in summer, while N₂O fluxes ranged 0.01-17971 mg s⁻¹ m⁻², with maxima in fall. Aeration tank II and Anaerobic tank I were the dominant emission stages, with night and intra-day peaks. Statistical analysis identified treatment stage and temperature as the main controls on CH₄ variability (p = 0.006 to 0.014), whereas N₂O showed weaker climatic sensitivity. The results provide refined emission factors and emphasize that aeration optimization and denitrification control are key to reducing GHG emissions from livestock wastewater systems in warm, humid regions.

Abstract: This paper presents Greenopoli, an innovative framework for sustainability and waste management education that has engaged over 600 schools and 90,000 students since 2014. Greenopoli is founded on the idea that children and youth can grasp environmental issues as well as adults and act as agents of change within their families and communities. The Greenopoli approach combines scientific accuracy with playful, creative pedagogy to simplify complex topics and stimulate peer-to-peer learning. It includes storytelling, games, field visits, and “green raps” (original environmental songs co-created with students). The framework is adaptive, with content and activities tailored to education stages from kindergarten through university. Educators adopt the role of moderators or facilitators, encouraging students to discuss and discover concepts collaboratively. Greenopoli’s participatory method has been implemented across all age groups, yielding enthusiastic engagement and tangible outcomes in waste sorting and recycling behaviors. The program’s reach has extended beyond schools through collaborations with national recycling consortia, NGOs, municipalities, and media (TV programs, social media, TEDx talks). Numerous awards and recognitions (2017-2025) have highlighted its impact. A comparative analysis shows that Greenopoli’s use of peer-led learning, gamification, and creative communication aligns with global best practices while offering a unique blend of tools. Greenopoli is a novel best-practice model in environmental education, bridging theory and practice and contributing to the goals of Education for Sustainable Development and a circular economy. It demonstrates the effectiveness of engaging youth as change-makers through interactive and creative learning, and it can inspire similar initiatives globally.

Abstract: This study assessed six tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) cultivars within an integrated solar-powered closed hydroponic system in Al Dhaid, UAE (25°16′11.2″N, 55°55′52.2″E). The system combined an insect-proof net house, closed hydroponics, root-zone cooling, ultra-low-energy drip irrigation, and a cost-effective solar-powered reverse osmosis (RO) desalination unit to address salinity constraints. The cultivars, selected for their adaptability to controlled environments in the UAE, were evaluated for yield, water-use efficiency (WUE), and fertilizer-use efficiency (FUE). Among them, Torcida recorded the highest mean yield (0.619 kg m⁻² harvest⁻¹), WUE (27.1 kg m⁻³), FUE (26.5 kg fruit kg⁻¹ fertilizer), and marketable fruit ratio (66.3%), followed by Roenza, Eviva, and SV 4129 TH; Lamina was intermediate, while Saley, a bushy type, produced the lowest yield. The top cultivars achieved cumulative yields exceeding 7 kg m⁻²—surpassing regional open-field benchmarks (4–5 kg m⁻²; 3–6 kg m⁻³). Compared with conventional cooled hydroponic greenhouses (3.5 kg plant⁻¹; 8 kg m⁻³), the system demonstrated similar productivity using three times less water. The RO unit produced water at 1.05 US$ m⁻³—58–68% below regional tariffs—while minimizing reliance on grid electricity and mechanical cooling. Overall, the integrated solar-powered hydroponic–RO model proved technically reliable, resource-efficient, and economically viable, offering a scalable solution for sustainable veg-etable production in hyper-arid regions.

Abstract: The packaging sector is undergoing a significant transformation driven by increasing environmental challenges and new European regulatory frameworks. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), following the European Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan, introduces five strategic priorities: waste prevention, recyclability, recycled content, compostable materials, and reusable systems. This framework aims to systematically review the current state of academic research in relation to these five intervention areas, assessing the extent to which scientific literature supports the regulation's circular economy objectives. The PPWR sets guidelines for key aspects such as packaging treatment, recycling targets, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and material optimization. These aspects are strongly linked to market dynamics, driving innovation and new developments of packaging design. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the industry’s evolution, with a focus on the crucial role of the circular economy in addressing the persistent issue of packaging waste. By conducting a systematic literature review using the PSALSAR method, the research explores the relationship between the regulation’s structural design and the European Commission’s Priority areas. The results reveal that Waste Prevention and Reusability are the most researched areas, particularly concerning environmental assessments and regulatory tools like EPR. Additionally, while Recyclability has been studied from technical and environmental perspectives, there is still a lack of research on how it connects with supply chain and material market trends. Strengthening these connections could significantly enhance recycling efficiency and improve the sustainability of packaging system. Furthermore, financial incentives and policy strategies could play a key role in facilitating the transition to a circular economy. Addressing these gaps will foster a more integrated understanding of sustainable packaging solutions.

Abstract: In sub-Saharan Africa, land degradation and climate change threaten food security by reducing soil productivity and water availability. Soil and water conservation (SWC) technologies can restore soil health, enhance moisture retention, and support crop growth under adverse conditions. This review identifies SWC technologies applied in climatically similar African regions with the aim of informing adoption in Senegal, particularly in Sédhiou and Tambacounda regions. Using K-means clustering on 19 WorldClim bioclimatic variables, 35 comparable countries were identified, of which 17 met inclusion criteria based on data availability and ≥60% climatic similarity. Around 85 technologies were reviewed, including water harvesting, soil-moisture conservation, and erosion control, assessed for their compatibility across rainfall patterns, and land gradients and uses. The review highlights 12 successful technologies across Africa with high potential for cross-border transfer and upscaling in Senegal’s agroecological context. While countries such as Burkina Faso, Kenya, and Malawi lead in technology adoption and diversity, Senegal lags behind due to institutional gaps, limited funding, and weak extension systems. The findings highlight the importance of site-specific water management for improving soil conservation, biodiversity protection, climate adaptation, and food security, and emphasize the need for policy integration, stakeholder empowerment, private-sector engagement, and cross-border learning to accelerate adoption.

Abstract: Efficient water recycling is imperative for the sustainable presence of humans during long-duration and deep-space missions, where resupply from Earth is not a viable option. This study proposes a kombucha-based photobioreactor (Kombucha-PBR) as a novel biological approach for the treatment of wastewater generated in space habitats. Kombucha, a symbiotic microbial consortium of bacteria and yeasts, produces bacterial cellulose and demonstrates high stability and resistance to contamination, making it suitable for closed-loop bioprocessing in microgravity conditions. The reactor was evaluated using synthetic wastewater formulated by NASA, which was representative of spacecraft effluents. Treatment performance was assessed through the removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total nitrogen (TN). Following an initial adaptation phase, the system demonstrated stable performance, with a decrease in ammonia concentrations from 200 mg·L⁻¹ to 44 mg·L⁻¹ (>80% removal efficiency) and an average COD removal of 81% after 30 days. The fixed-bed configuration provided an extensive surface area for the growth of biofilm, thereby enabling simultaneous carbon and nitrogen removal whilst minimising energy requirements and operational complexity. The findings demonstrate that the Kombucha-PBR offers a compact, low-energy, and microgravity-compatible solution for regenerative water recovery. Its integration into spacecraft life support systems has the potential to significantly advance sustainable resource management and autonomy for future long-term space missions.

Abstract: The spatial configuration of Waste-to-Energy (WtE) infrastructure plays a decisive role in determining the environmental and economic performance of municipal solid waste (MSW) management systems. This study applies a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to evaluate the environmental implications of centralized and decentralized siting strategies for Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) utilization in Greece. Two alternative scenarios were modeled: (i) a centralized approach based on six large WtE plants as proposed by the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy (gr. YPEN), and (ii) a decentralized approach involving smaller, regionally distributed units located closer to Recycling and Recovery Facilities (RRFs). Using the SimaPro software and the CML/ReCiPe 2016 methodologies, environmental impacts were quantified across categories including global warming potential, acidification, eutrophication, and particulate matter formation. The results indicate that the decentralized scenario yields substantial environmental advantages, with reductions ranging from 33% to 45% across all impact categories and a 35% decrease in CO₂-equivalent (CO2e) emissions compared to the centralized scenario. Economic analysis confirms these findings, showing a 31% reduction in total transport and emissions-related costs due primarily to minimized long-distance and maritime transport. The study concludes that decentralized RDF-to-energy systems offer a more balanced and sustainable pathway, enhancing operational flexibility, lowering environmental burdens, and improving social acceptance. These results underscore the importance of integrating spatial and logistical parameters in national WtE planning to align with EU waste hierarchy principles and circular economy objectives.

Abstract: Samples of flotation tailings generated during the exploitation and processing of Zn–Pb–Cu–Ag ore from the Rudnik mine (Serbia) were investigated for their mineralogical, geo-chemical, and magnetic susceptibility properties. The flotation tailings consist of a com-plex mineral assemblage, including silicates, carbonates, sulfides, phosphates, sulfates, oxides, hydroxides, and native elements. Quartz and calcite dominate the coarse fraction (>500 µm), accompanied by epidote, andradite, and diopside. Sulfide minerals are con-centrated in finer fractions (400 µm), with pyrite and arsenopyrite being the most abun-dant, followed by pyrrhotite, sphalerite, galena, and chalcopyrite. These sulfides form in-tricate intergrowths or occur as dispersed grains within a silicate–carbonate matrix. Post-depositional oxidative alteration is moderately developed, with pyrite being replaced by hematite, galena by cerussite, and chalcopyrite by malachite. Geochemical analyses reveal that SiO₂ (avg. 38.98 wt%), Fe₂O₃ (avg. 23.68 wt%), and Al₂O₃ (avg. 8.95 wt%) domi-nate the composition. Economically significant metals include Zn (avg. 0.47 wt%), Pb (avg. 0.20 wt%), Cu (avg. 0.11 wt%), Ag (max. 19 µg/g), and Bi (max. 130 µg/g). Mass mag-netic susceptibility shows a significant correlation with S (r = 0.92), Co (r = 0.90), and Bi (r = 0.87); moderate correlation with Fe₂O₃, Al₂O₃, and As; and negative correlation with Mn, TiO₂, Zn, and Pb. The ferromagnetic phase (sensu lato) most likely originates from hematite formed during pyrite alteration, as well as from pyrrhotite and goethite.

Abstract: The global demand for compost, produced through the bioconversion of organic waste into nutrient-rich soil amendments, is increasing due to the adverse environmental, health, and economic impacts of synthetic fertilizers. Compost use offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative, improving soil fertility and long-term productivity. However, the potential of tobacco waste as a composting substrate remains insufficiently investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of utilizing tobacco waste as a composting feedstock and to develop an optimized composting method. Tobacco waste (scrap leaves and midrib stems) was composted with cow manure in earthen pots to promote decomposition and nutrient mineralization, and its performance was compared with compost produced from cow manure and vegetable waste (vegetable leaves). Vermicomposting, which involves the addition of earthworms to conventional compost treatments, was also implemented to enhance composting efficiency and nutrient release. The final composts, both conventional and vermicompost, were analyzed for organic carbon (OC), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S), and the maturity duration. Among the three conventional compost variants, the mixture of cow manure and vegetable waste exhibited a notable nutrient composition, with the highest organic carbon (15.3%) and phosphorus (0.42%) contents. All three vermicompost variants outperformed their conventional counterparts in terms of nutrient concentrations and achieved maturity in shorter durations. The vermicompost, comprising cow manure, vegetable leaves, and earthworms, recorded the highest levels of organic carbon (45.3%) and nitrogen (2.50%), reaching maturity within 40 days. The cow manure with tobacco stem mixed vermicompost was notable for its elevated potassium (1.35%) and sulfur (0.89%) contents. The results indicate that vermicomposting offers a faster and more nutrient-enriched composting approach, particularly with vegetable residues. Incorporating tobacco waste into this process has the potential to produce high-quality compost, presenting a sustainable strategy for waste valorization and enhancing soil fertility.

Abstract: Hydroxamic acid extractors (such as LIX984) show high extraction efficiency in extracting nickel from electron-free nickel waste solution, but there is a problem with a slow extraction rate. This study investigated the effect of adding specific amounts (2-5 vol.%) of three organophosphate extractants (P507, P204, and Cyanex272) to LIX984, and the results showed that adding 2-5 vol.% P507 or Cyanex272 can significantly increase extraction efficiency and kinetic properties. When 2-5 vol% organophosphorus extractant was added, the extraction rate increased 1.5-10 times， indicating a direct correlation between the content of organophosphorus extractant and the acceleration of the extraction process, with an increase in content corresponding to an increase in extraction rate. Compared to the case when additives were not used, nickel extraction efficiency reached more than 99% when 5 vol% P507 was added. while in the absence of additives was only 46%; at the same time, the rate of extraction was also significantly improved. With 2 vol% P204, the removal efficiency reached 99.8%. When applied to a waste solution for non-electroplating (pH 4-6), the first addition of 2-5 Vol.% P204 or P507 for selective removal of iron and zinc impurities and then pH up to 6-7 with a mixture of organophosphate extracts, and the spent electroless nickel plating baths are extracted with LIX984 extractant mixed with organic phosphoric acid extractant to obtain the nickel salt solution with higher purity by stripping. Therefore, in the spent electroless nickel plating baths with recovered nickel, the organic phosphoric acid extractants P507, P204, and Cyanex272 can be used as a good promoter of the hydroxamic acid extractant LIX984, and the new extractant obtained can achieve both a better nickel extraction effect and a higher nickel extraction rate.

Abstract:

The construction industry increasingly seeks sustainable solutions to reduce environmental impact and energy consumption. This study explores the innovative use of industrial sludge generated from the wastewater treatment of detergent manufacturing as a partial substitute for Portland cement in mortar production. The sludge, characterized by high SiO₂ (46.58%) and CaO (28.66%) content, was incorporated at substitution rates of 0% to 30%. Mortars were prepared and tested according to NF EN 196-1 standards for mechanical strength, and thermophysical properties were assessed using the Hot Disk TPS 1500 system. Results demonstrate that up to 20% sludge replacement maintains acceptable mechanical performance (compressive strength: 12.63 MPa at 28 days vs. 13.91 MPa for control; flexural strength: 3.93 MPa vs. 4.65 MPa) while significantly enhancing thermal insulation. Thermal conductivity decreased from 1.054 W/m·K (0% sludge) to 0.797 W/m·K (20% sludge), and thermal diffusivity dropped from 0.6096 mm²/s to 0.504 mm²/s. XRD analysis revealed the formation of new phases, such as gismondine, indicating beneficial pozzolanic activity. These findings highlight the dual benefit of valorizing detergent sludge and improving building energy efficiency, offering an eco-efficient alternative to traditional mortars aligned with circular economy and low-carbon construction goals.

Abstract: The application of efficient optical-electrical sorting technology for the automatic separation of copper mine waste rocks not only enables the recovery of valuable copper metals and promotes the resource utilization of non-ferrous mine waste, but also conserves large areas of land otherwise used for waste disposal and alleviates associated environmental issues. However, the process is challenged by the low copper content and fine dissemination of copper-bearing minerals, including copper metallic elements, and the subdued irradiation response of sulfur. To address these challenges, this study leverages dual-energy X-ray imaging and multi-modal learning, proposing a lightweight twin-tower convolutional neural network (CNN) designed to fuse high- and low-energy spectral information for the automated sorting of copper mine waste rocks. Additionally, the study integrates an emerging Kolmogorov-Arnold network as a classifier to enhance the sorting performance. To validate the efficacy of our approach, a dataset comprising 31,057 pairs of copper mine waste rock images with corresponding high and low-energy spectra was meticulously compiled. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed lightweight method achieves competitive, if not superior, performance compared to contemporary mainstream deep learning networks, yet it requires merely 1.32 million parameters (only 6.2% of ResNet-34), thereby indicating extensive potential for practical deployment.

Abstract:

Among the main man-made water pollutants that pose a danger to the environment are oil products, heavy metals and radionuclides, as well as micro- and nanoplastics formed as a result of the destruction of polymeric materials. A characteristic feature of contaminated waters nowadays is their multicomponent and multiphase nature. To purify such waters, it is necessary to use a combination of several advanced methods, with sorption being one of them. The aim of this work is to develop a nanocomposite sorbent comprising magnetically responsive thermally expanded graphite (TEG) and the natural clay bentonite and assess its ability to purify man-made contaminated waters. In the course of the research, the methods of scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and atomic absorption spectrophotometry were used. To obtain the nanocomposite, magnetoresponsive TEG containing micro- and nanoparticles of metallic iron and its oxides as a magnetic component, and bentonite with a montmorillonite content of at least 70% and the particle size of less than 100 μm were used. Given the complex chemical nature of the surface of montmorillonite and magnetoresponsive TEG particles, the interaction of the hydrophobic centers of bentonite with the surface of TEG particles during mechanical activation leads to the formation of loose aggregates capable of sorbing particles of micro- and nanoplastics and non-polar hydrocarbons. The sorption properties of the nanocomposite are dependent on the hydrophobic centers mainly located on the surface of oxidized graphene layers in thermally expanded graphite. The hydrophilic properties of the nanocomposite are due to the presence of aluminol and silanol groups, as well as the charge on the surface of montmorillonite nanocrystals and the Brønsted centers on the surface of TEG particles. The use of the nanocomposite for purification of a nuclear power plant (NPP) radioactively contaminated water simulant containing stable isotopes of cesium, strontium, cobalt, manganese in the presence of hydrophilic and hydrophobic organic substances reduced the content of organic substances by 10-15 times, and the degree of extraction of heavy metals from water was for cesium - 81.4%, strontium – 89.9%, cobalt – 92.4%, and manganese – 98.8%. The use of a carbon nanocomposite for purification of real radioactively contaminated water obtained from the object “Shelter” (“Ukryttya” in Ukrainian), in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, Ukraine) with an activity of ¹³⁷Cs – 3.3∙10⁷ Bq/dm³, ⁹⁰Sr – 4.9∙10⁶ Bq/dm³, containing, in addition to radionuclides, organic substances, including micro- and nanoplastics, reduced the radioactivity by three orders of magnitude. The filtrate obtained after purification was free from suspended particles, including colloidal ones. The use of cesium-selective sorbents for additional purification of the filtrate allowed further decontamination of radioactively contaminated water with an efficiency of 99.99%.

Abstract: The expansion of Nigeria’s digital economy has introduced new pressures on the environment while simultaneously creating opportunities for sustainability-driven innovation. This study examined how the country’s rapid digitalisation intersected with four critical domains: carbon and energy footprints, electronic waste, regulatory readiness, and green innovation. Rather than treating digital growth as environmentally neutral, the paper framed it as a system of trade-offs in which efficiency, inclusion, and ecological responsibility competed for priority. Case evidence from renewable-powered data centres, certified recycling plants, and grassroots upcycling projects illustrated how local actors experimented with circular economy principles despite policy gaps. The findings suggested that Nigeria’s pathway to sustainable digitalisation depended less on technology adoption alone and more on governance choices, enforcement mechanisms, and the willingness of stakeholders to integrate sustainability into design, infrastructure, and regulation. By positioning sustainability as a strategic imperative, Nigeria could transform digitalisation from an environmental liability into a model for green growth in Africa.

Abstract: Africa’s digital sector has expanded rapidly, driving growth in communication, commerce, and innovation. Yet this progress risks deepening carbon emissions, e-waste, and resource dependence if sustainability is overlooked. This compendium examined best practices from across the continent to show how digital transformation can align with environmental responsibility. Through case studies of renewable-powered infrastructure, certified recycling initiatives, and circular economy enterprises, it identified pathways for reducing ICT’s ecological footprint while enabling inclusive growth. Cross-cutting themes such as SME participation, gender-responsive strategies, clean mobility, and climate-smart agriculture demonstrated how greener technologies can support resilience and equity. A practical toolkit provided steps for organisations to assess and improve their sustainability performance, while the discussion of scaling strategies stressed partnerships, financing, and governance as critical enablers. The findings suggested that Africa’s digital future can be both innovative and sustainable when guided by deliberate policies and collaborative action.

Abstract: Plastic is an industrial innovation with many applications. However, its widespread production, use, and inadequate disposal practices, present a complex challenge, with escalating ecological and health impacts. This study investigated plastic waste management practices in the rural coastal communities of Kendwa, Nungwi, Paje, and Michamvi, located near tourist hotels in the Northern and Southern districts of Zanzibar, Tanzania. Structured-interviews, observation-checklists, and participatory-workshops were used to assess the types of plastic waste generated, and community engagement in disposal practices. The study found that the main types of plastic-waste generated and disposed of, included single-use polyethylene-terephthalate (PET) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) packaging, such as beverage bottles and other disposable items sourced from hotels. Nungwi and Kendwa stood out for their proactive approach, supported by a professional waste management company and a structured, NGO-led awareness programs that prioritizes sustainable practices. In contrast, Paje and Michamvi struggle with the waste management challenges linked to increased waste load from tourist activities. Despite the proactive efforts in Nungwi and Kendwa, ongoing littering persists, due to inadequate enforcement, limited infrastructure, and inconsistent community compliance. The study proposes initiation of waste bank programs and complementary strategies to enhance the programs financial sustainability. empower communities, and advance sustainable waste management.

Abstract: Anaerobic digestion (AD) is an environmentally friendly promising solution for recycling of agro-industrial wastes. However, overloading of an anaerobic digester with the substrate might cause inhibition of the AD process. Present study investigates effects of substrate to inoculum (S/I) ratio on the AD of Potato-chips processing (PCP) wastes from Potato-Chips Processing Industry (PCPI). The PCP wastes include expired potato-chips (EPC), recovered potato starch (RPS) and potato peels (PP). Mesophilic AD was carried out in batch-wise static reactors at 35±1 oC using 4 different S/I ratios (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 g VS/g VS) for each waste. Different optimum S/I ratios were obtained for the different wastes; however, pH ranges were comparable (7.0 to 7.5) for all batches. The optimum S/I for EPC, RPS and PP were 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 respectively. Cumulative biogas yields for EPC, RPS and PP were 367.5±6.3, 310.0±5.5 and 202.5±4.9 ml/g VS added, respectively. Methane content of biogas yields ranged between 60% and 70%. There was a variable remarkable shift in the microbial population at the optimum S/I ratio of each waste. Firmicutes increased in case of EPC and RPS while decreased in case of PP. Conversely, Proteobacteria increased by using PP as substrate and decreased in case of EPC. Herein the results of AD of PCP wastes confirm its potential for onsite production of renewable bioenergy and reduction of energy bill in the PCPI. Also it provides guidance for optimizing the AD of PCP wastes for large scale application.

Abstract: As a solid waste generated during the desulfurization process of coal-fired power plants, the output of desulfurization dross is increasing year by year. If not properly treated, it may occupy land and potentially pollute the environment. The article summarizes and analyzes the physical and chemical properties of desulfurization dross, as well as the progress in resource utilization of semi dry desulfurization dross. The application potential of semi dry flue gas desulfurization dross in building materials, agriculture, wet flue gas desulfurization, sludge and wastewater treatment, and high value-added fields was discussed in detail, achieving comprehensive utilization of resources, reducing environmental pollution, and increasing considerable economic benefits for related enterprises. The article points out that in the future, it is necessary to optimize the stability pretreatment technology of desulfurization dross and strengthen its environmental risk control to achieve large-scale and high-value applications. The article also looks forward to the research direction of semi dry calcium based desulfurization dross in the future, aiming to provide reference for the sustainable development and environmental protection of semi dry desulfurization dross.

Abstract: Food waste is one of our planet's most critical issues, as it is directly linked to food securi-ty, resource depletion, greenhouse gas emissions, and, more generally, environmental is-sues that require immediate solutions. This issue occurs at all stages of the food value chain; however, households are the main link in waste production. The present research aims to investigate the main factors that influence households' behaviors regarding food waste and how they can be utilized to develop sustainable practices to avoid environ-mental impacts. For this purpose, six research hypotheses were investigated, associated with consumers' knowledge of environmental and food waste issues, awareness con-cerning the community in which they live, emotions about their actions, and social and economic status issues. A structured questionnaire was addressed to a sample of 870 people in a Greek region to gather quantitative data that were analyzed through factor and path analyses. The results indicated that education and proper information on environ-mental issues, ways to reduce waste, and impacts on the environment and the economy significantly correlate to consumer behaviors in food waste.

Abstract: Globally, mining waste-related problems are regarded as the second most significant environmental issue after global warming and ozone depletion. Although the techniques for extracting precious metals have greatly improved, the increasing scarcity of these metals has resulted in a substantial rise in mine waste. The limitations of traditional remediation methods have led to the adoption of phytoremediation, a plant-based technology, for environmentally friendly and cost-effective detoxification and contaminant removal from soil. Over the past three decades, phytoremediation has attracted considerable interest and research attention. This literature review aims to synthesize the current state of knowledge on phytoremediation, focusing on leveraging bioenergy production. The review further examines species suitable for phytoextraction, phytostabilization, and bioenergy production, along with the limitations of current legislation in promoting a more integrated approach to mitigate the environmental and social impacts of mining, as well as the extensive use of plant species to address metal contamination in South Africa's mining industry. Among other species, Vetiver grass was evaluated for its potential in integrated phytoremediation, carbon sequestration, and bioenergy production systems. The review identified a disconnect between legislation and the current environmental, social, and economic sustainability, which frustrates the country's sustainable development agendas and the adoption of a circular economy. It also highlighted the lack of information regarding potential synergies between phytoremediation, bioenergy production, and carbon sequestration in South Africa. Thus, more work is needed to establish a new paradigm for rehabilitating mined land to tackle the interconnected challenges of mining-related pollution control, energy production, and climate change. This promotes the integration of circular economy principles, innovation, and sustainability.