Search

This study focussed on the development of fully biodegradable composites based on polybutylene succinate (PBS) in combination with raw materials from different processing stages of the pulp and paper industry. Sulfite pulp (SP), kraft pulp (KP) and screened sludge residue (SL) from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) were investigated as reinforcing fibres contributing to a circular economy. We report a comparative study of the physicochemical properties and mechanical performance of PBS composites reinforced with these cellulosic raw fibres and commercial pure microcrystalline cellulose (MC). The composites were characterised in tensile strength, elongation at break, modulus of elasticity, water absorption and wettability. The incorporation of the fibres into the polymer matrix was also investigated using torque rheometry. Critical concentrations were obtained with maximum incorporation in the range of 15–20 wt% for SP/KP and 25–30 wt% for SL. SP and KP composites showed at least as good physicochemical and mechanical properties as MC at the concentrations studied (0–20 wt%). SP-composites showed the highest tensile strength and modulus of elasticity. It was shown that these fibres from the pulp and paper industry can be used as reinforcement for PBS matrices without additional chemical purification and provide a valuable alternative to commercial microcrystalline cellulose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pulp and paper industry generates vast quantities of paper sludge, posing significant environmental challenges due to its disposal in landfills or incineration. This study explores the potential of valorizing paper sludge by incorporating it into particleboard production. It aims to optimize sludge content and particle size to enhance board properties—a novel approach to waste management in the wood composites industry. Through systematic variation of sludge content (0–25%) and particle size (< 0.5 to > 2 mm), we assessed the mechanical and physical properties such as internal bond strength (IB), modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), water absorption (WA), and thickness swelling (TS). The findings indicate that incorporating paper sludge at moderate levels (5–15%) with optimized particle sizes (< 1 mm) significantly improves the mechanical properties of the particleboard, including increased IB, MOR, and MOE while reducing WA and TS. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) further supported these results, revealing that higher-density boards with enhanced mechanical properties absorb less water, highlighting the interrelationship between structural integrity and moisture resistance. The PCA also identified thickness swelling as an independent factor, suggesting that while mechanical properties can be optimized, additional strategies are needed to control swelling. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that up to 15% paper sludge can be effectively used in particleboard production without compromising quality, provided particle size is carefully controlled. This approach not only offers a sustainable solution for managing paper sludge but also contributes to the development of eco-friendly composite materials, aligning with circular economy principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though paper is an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic as a packaging material, it lacks antibacterial properties, and some papers have a low resistance to oil or water. In this study, a multifunctional paper-coating material was developed to reduce the use of plastic packaging and enhance paper performance. Natural cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with excellent properties were used as the base material for the coating. The CNCs were functionalized into dialdehyde CNCs (DACNCs) through periodate oxidation. The DACNCs were subsequently complexed using erythrosine as a photosensitizer to form an erythrosine–CNC composite (Ery-DACNCs) with photodynamic inactivation. The Ery-DACNCs achieved inactivations above 90% after 30 min of green light irradiation and above 85% after 60 min of white light irradiation (to simulate real-world lighting conditions), indicating photodynamic inactivation effects. The optimal parameters for a layer-by-layer dip coating of kraft paper with Ery-DACNCs were 4.5-wt% Ery-DACNCs and 15 coating layers. Compared to non-coated kraft paper and polyethylene-coated paper, the Ery-DACNC-coated paper exhibited enhanced mechanical properties (an increase of 28% in bursting strength). More than 90% of the bacteria were inactivated after 40 min of green light irradiation, and more than 80% were inactivated after 60 min of white light irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fast growth of building constructions industry and of the universal population is the main cause of increase in global energy consumption. Therefore, the improvement of the building envelope encourages the scientific community to investigate the use of alternative materials that assure indoor comfort conditions and at the same time promote the reduction of energy consumption by adopting energy saving strategies in the manufacturing process. The present research contribution aims to focus on the potential use of innovative building materials developed with waste paper, classified as urban non-hazardous discard component. The use of paper pulp originated from recycled paper and cardboard with the addition of textile fibers from industrial by-products was explored. Here, an effort has been made to realize sustainable insulating panel for internal use, considering different mix design and recycled components in various percentages. The research focuses on hygric, thermal, and physical performances of recycled waste based panels, measuring physical aspects as bulk porosity and bulk density and testing hygrothermal performances as the dry-state thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, volumetric heat capacity, and water vapour permeability. Furthermore, in order to assess the hygrothermal behaviour of the building envelope, a numerical simulation, carried out by WUFI® Plus in a Mediterranean context, was developed using as inputs the results collected from the measurement campaign in laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to profile the shoppers' propensity to reuse shopping bags and the type of shopping bags they reuse on the basis of demographics. The study used an observation method to record the consumers' shopping habits and a short questionnaire to record the participants' demographics. A binary regression analysis and a multinomial regression analysis were used to analyse data. The results indicated that the mature aged, women, and low income shoppers were more likely to practice reuse of plastic shopping bags than their respective counterparts. There were no statistically significant differences in the likelihood of young aged shoppers compared to mature aged shoppers and low income shoppers compared to high income shoppers using cotton bags than plastic bags. There were also no statistically significant differences in the likelihood of young aged shoppers compared to mature aged shoppers and male shoppers compared to female shoppers using paper bags than plastic bags. However, the results indicated a statically significant result in how males compared to females differed in their using of cotton bags than plastic bags and a statistically significant result in how low income shoppers compared to high income shoppers differed in their use of paper bags than plastic bags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to explore the methods of recycling waste paper, reduce environment pollution, and develop a circular economy, the application of waste corrugated paper to the strengthening of polylactic acid (PLA) was studied. Plant fiber from waste corrugated paper (WCPF) was used to prepare WCPF/PLA composite via co-extrusion. The WCPF was extracted from the waste corrugated paper by beating in a Valli beating machine and grinding in a disc grinder. KH-550 coupling agent was used to modify the surface of WCPF to improve the interface adhesive strength between the WCPF and PLA matrix. The effects of the contents of WCPF and KH-550 coupling agent on the mechanical properties, microstructure, crystallization properties, and thermostability of the WCPF/PLA composite were studied. The results show that the WCPF can be well separated from each other. The WCPF can be uniformly dispersed in the PLA matrix through a co-extrusion process. WCPF can increase the mechanical strength and deformation resistance ability of WCPF/PLA composite, and KH-550 coupling agent can further improve that of the WCPF/PLA composite. This study is of obvious significance to the recycling of waste paper and the development of a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the recycle value of waste paper and promote circular economic development, waste corrugated paper fiber (WCPF) was used as a reinforcing agent to prepare waste corrugated paper fiber/polylactic acid (WCPF/PLA) composites via dichloromethane solvent which can be reused. The WCPF in the waste corrugated paper is extracted by beating in a Valli beating machine for different time lengths and grinding in a disc grinder. The effects of beating time and the content of WCPF on the microstructure, mechanical properties, thermal decomposition process, and crystallization properties of the WCPF/PLA composite were studied. The result shows that the WCPF can be well separated from each other and can be evenly dispersed in the PLA matrix. When 25 wt% WCPF which was beat for 30 min was used, the composite has the greatest improvement in tensile property. This study provides a new process for the recycling of waste paper in the application of polymer reinforcement. The research on waste paper fiber and degradable polymer composite is of great significance for reducing environmental pollutants and developing circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several lignocellulosic wastes are generated in the pulp and paper industry (PPI), such as small wood chips (pinchips) and paper sludge, presenting a high cellulose content suitable to be converted into biofuels or bio-products in a forest biorefinery scheme. In this work, two schemes of biorefinery were proposed for their valorization, processing small eucalyptus wood pinchips in two different strategies: (i) autohydrolysis at 230ºC, and (ii) autohydrolysis at 195ºC followed by organosolv process (47.7% ethanol-water, 198ºC for 60 min). More than 95% of cellulose was recovered in both schemes. In the combined process, 76% of delignification was achieved and 78% of xylan was solubilized as xylooligosaccharides. To reduce operational cost of lignocellulosic biomass-to-ethanol fermentation, the mixture of the treated eucalyptus pinchips from two processes with sludge was also proposed to increase the initial glucan content and to supply a rich source of nitrogen (present in the sludge). For that, two experimental designs were carried out for ethanol production by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) process. Ethanol from SSF assays using sludge as co-substrate at 0.6 g of sludge/g of treated wood pinchips and 16 FPU/g of pretreated solids allowed to obtain 59 g/L (90% of conversion) and 46 g/L (96% of conversion) when blended with the wood from autohydrolysis and with the wood from autohydrolysis followed by organosolv, respectively. Overall, this study shows an alternative process valorization of biomasses derived from PPI for production of advanced biofuels and bio-products (such as xylooligosaccharides and lignin) contributing to achieving a circular economy. • Multi-waste valorization approach was proposed to produce biofuel and bioproducts. • Autohydrolysis and organosolv processes allowed > 90% glucan recoveries. • Higher than 40 g/L of ethanol and 90% of yield were obtained in both schemes developed. • Blending with sludge improve ethanol production from pretreated eucalyptus wood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-performance aramid papers are ideal insulating materials in the electric industry, due to their superior mechanical strength and insulation capabilities. However, when subjected to prolonged high-voltage and high-power operations, these papers are prone to electrical damage, such as breakdown or corona aging. Unfortunately, most damaged aramid papers are viewed as mere waste, discarded through landfill or other unsustainable disposal methods. It is not only contrary to circular economy principles but also poses a significant environmental threat due to the potential for pollution. Herein, a closed-loop recycling strategy is proposed that efficiently and effectively reclaims electrically damaged meta-aramid papers. Using the DMAc/LiCl deprotonation system, waste aramid papers are completely decomposed into molecular chains, exposing carbon residues resulting from electrical breakdown. These carbon residues are removed through a step-by-step purification process. A reprotonation treatment is then applied to regenerate new meta-aramid papers by reforming the intermolecular hydrogen bonds. This approach not only fully restores the original honeycomb-like structure but also ensures the crystallization and hydrogen bond content, maintaining both electrical and mechanical properties at above 90 % of their original values. Notably, our recycling method is also compatible with aramid-based composites, achieving exceptional recycling efficiency. [Display omitted] • Electrically damaged meta-aramid paper can be recycled in a closed loop. • The DMAc/LiCl system completely dissolves waste aramid into PMIA molecular chains. • Carbon residues induced by electrical breakdown can be removed by purification. • The synergistic conservation of electrical and mechanical properties exceeds 90 %. • Closed loop recycling strategy is also viable for inorganic-aramid composite paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mining seawater C a 2 + and M g 2 + for recovering F - was proposed. • This was achieved through the high affinity between carboxyl and C a 2 + / M g 2 + . • The C a F 2 / M g F 2 colloids were recovered and retained by the filter papers. • Additional flocculation was avoided. Resource reclamation with low carbon emissions is highly desirable from the perspective of the circular economy. We propose a green solution in this study, which involves mining calcium and magnesium from seawater as an effective reagent for the recovery of valuable fluoride. This was achieved by esterifying the cellulose filter papers with citric acid to associate carboxyl groups onto their surfaces. Consequently, the high affinity between the carboxyl group and alkaline earth elements enabled efficient and selective loading of C a 2 + (0.193 ± 0.001 mmol- C a 2 + /g) and M g 2 + (0.127 ± 0.001 mmol- M g 2 + /g) onto the filter papers, reaching up to 96% and 60% of the available active sites, respectively. When applied in natural seawater, the esterified filter papers successfully captured both C a 2 + (0.110 ± 0.007 mmol- C a 2 + /g) and M g 2 + (0.078 ± 0.005 mmol- M g 2 + /g) simultaneously. The presence of IR singlet symmetric (ν s COO, ≈ 1450 cm−1) stretching vibrations indicated that both C a 2 + and M g 2 + ions were complexed with carboxyl groups in a bridging unidentate mode. The adsorption capacity of C a 2 + and M g 2 + was likely influenced by the varying thickness of their hydration shells within the highly overlapped electric double layers presented in the micropores of the esterified filter papers. The papers loaded with C a 2 + and M g 2 + were subsequently utilized for fluoride recovery in simulated HF wastewater. The formation of C a F 2 / M g F 2 colloids effectively recovered the stoichiometric amount of fluoride (C a F 2.46 and M g F 1.72), which were retained on the surface of the filter papers. Additional flocculation for colloid separation is thus avoided, resulting in a significant increase in the content of reclaimed fluoride. Increasing the density of associated carboxyl groups is crucial for effectively complexing a greater amount of seawater C a 2 + / M g 2 + and, consequently, enhancing the capacity of fluoride reclamation by esterified filter papers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing pressure on natural resources and the climate has been noted by businesses and governments worldwide, who now face the difficult task of integrating paths of environmental sustainability and economic growth. One promising approach to sustainable development, reducing the pressure on natural resources and solving waste problems is circular economy. From different ways of implementing circular economy, this study focuses on the productization of industrial side streams, which carry a great deal of underutilized potential. In this article, the productization of pulp and paper industry side stream, fiber sludge, for commercial use as a dust-binding agent is studied via a descriptive, in-depth case study. Apart from inconsistent quality, fluctuating supply, cost of storage and logistics, what makes industrial side stream utilization challenging is the lack of knowledge that stakeholders have about side streams and their utilization and the lack of new value chain development for their commercial use. Therefore, it is essential for all parties involved to have a clearer vision of what is being sold for what purposes, through productization. This study found that the productization of side streams follows the same steps as the productization of any other traditional product, and the productized side streams can be added to the company's product portfolio as by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical upcycling of plastic waste from landfills to value-added products offers both economic and environmental benefits. Reported here is a simple method to convert high-density polyethylene (HDPE) into upcycled waxes in a very high yield (up to 93%). This selectivity is achieved by reducing the degradation temperature of HDPE via the addition of an inexpensive and reusable sodium chloride. These upcycled waxes had performance comparable to those of commercial rheology modifiers. In addition, kraft paper coated with these upcycled waxes exhibited excellent water- and oil resistance. A preliminary revenue analysis showed that this innovation allows plastic-to-wax to conversion with a three-fold revenue benefit over traditional ways of producing pyrolysis waxes from plastics. Also, sodium chloride reduces the pyrolysis temperature, thus reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, supporting cleaner production, a circular economy, and generating less environmental pollution. The underlying concept reported herein can be extended to major plastics by reducing the degradation temperatures of plastics, thereby obtaining even better control over the pyrolysis products. Thus, these findings have the potential to enhance the circular economy of plastics and protect our environment from plastic waste. SYNOPSIS. Chemical upcycling of post-consumer polyethylene via a sodium chloride-catalyzed process. [Display omitted] • Demonstrated table salt-assisted pyrolysis of high-density polyethylene. • Converted polyethylene into upcycled waxes at mild temperatures and in high-yield. • Used upcycled waxes as rheology modifiers and water-proof coating material. • Performed preliminary revenue analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Papermaking enterprises are currently under both environmental pressure and economic pressure for sustainable development in China. Thus, the efficiency, effectiveness, and benefits of resource utilization need to be improved. High-consumption and high-pollution companies should manufacture paper using sustainable methods. This study highlights a resource value flow analysis from the circular economy perspective, developing an extension of material flow cost accounting and modifying it by accounting for environmental damage as well as economic benefits. With reference to the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle, this specific case study was conducted to verify the comprehensive utility of resource value flow analysis by establishing decision-making prioritization according to the dualistic diagnosis of "internal resource loss–external environmental damage costs." In general, applying a resource value flow analysis can both reduce resource consumption and minimize environmental damage, enhancing the sustainable development of a process industry with limited resources. Highlights • Material flows and value flows form an interactive unit in the resource value flow analysis model. • The resource value flow analysis model extends the environmental dimension of material flow cost accounting. • A dualistic diagnosis of "internal resource loss and external environmental damage costs" can achieve both economic profits and environmental benefits. • The Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle was introduced to strengthen the practical application of the resource value flow analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste paper disposed in landfills notably contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and impedes more sustainable, circular alternatives, such as recycling. In Hong Kong, this unsustainable approach is currently dominant as 68% of waste paper products are treated in landfills in 2020. To contextualize the impact of local waste paper management and explore mitigation potentials of circular alternatives, this paper develops a quantitative assessment framework around GHG emissions development trajectories. Combining guidelines of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), national GHG inventories, and local parameters from life cycle analysis, five GHG emissions projections were simulated along the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) until 2060. Most recent baselines indicate that Hong Kong's current waste paper treatment generated 638,360 tons CO 2 -eq in 2020, comprising 1,821,040 tons CO 2 -eq from landfill and 671,320 tons CO 2 -eq from recycling, and −1,854,000 tons CO 2 -eq from primary material replacement. Proceeding along a Business-as-Usual scenario under SSP5, GHG emissions will dramatically increase to a net 1,072,270 tons CO 2 -eq by 2060, whereas a recycling-intensive scenario will lead to a net saving of −4,323,190 tons CO 2 -eq. To complement the quantitative evidence on the benefits of waste paper recycling, field research was conducted to explore the feasibility of circular policy innovation from the perspective of recycling stakeholders. These empirical qualitative and quantitative findings from stakeholders' business routines and material transactions provide crucial indications for policy and institutional innovation: Essentially, for Hong Kong to improve waste paper recycling capacities and facilitate a circular economy (CE), local stakeholders require support via fiscal policy measures (financial subsidies or tax reductions) and infrastructure improvements (delivery access and material storage). In sum, this study employs a novel analytical framework combining original qualitative and quantitative evidence to provide policy innovation towards circular, GHG emission-saving waste paper management. [Display omitted] • A new framework assessing greenhouse gas emissions from waste paper treatment. • Exploring long-term carbon neutrality pathways for managing waste paper. • Using empirical evidence from recycling stakeholders for circular policy innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• European Waste Statistics Regulation focuses on waste as a post-factum problem. • At least 76,7% of waste disposing entities do not comply to the existing guidance. • Waste producer responsibility falls on the entities that pay waste management costs. • Circular economy transition requires changes in European Waste Statistics. The announcement of a new Circular Economy Action Plan as part of the European Green Deal policy has created an urgent need for the reliable information on resource flows to monitor and support the transition. An updated Monitoring Framework is set to rely as much as possible on European Statistics, however at this point there are no changes introduced in supranational statistics regulations. This raises a question whether regulations that have been created before the paradigm shift are still able to supply us with statistics necessary to inform policy makers about current successful practices, remaining barriers, positive and negative impacts of the transition and overall progress towards the set goals. This paper focuses on the Waste Statistics Regulation, specifically the relationship between the types of waste and economic activities which are considered to be the waste producers. Dutch National Waste Registry is used as a case study to compare the guidelines on pan-European waste data collection to the actual waste reports. The task of this publication is to explore to which extent the guidelines available in the Waste Statistics Regulation correspond to the operational reality. To do so it presents a computational method to link waste producers to their economic activities using a national Trade Registry. An extensive discussion of the results provides insights and recommendations for the future guidelines of waste statistics to support circular economy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulp and paper industry produces massive amounts of sludge from wastewater treatment, which constitute an enormous environmental challenge. A possible management option is the conversion of sludge into carbon-based adsorbents to be applied in water remediation. For such utilization it is important to investigate if sludge is a consistent raw material originating reproducible final materials (either over time or from different manufacturing processes), which is the main goal of this work. For that purpose, different primary (PS) and biological sludge (BS) batches from two factories with different operation modes were sampled and subjected to pyrolysis (P materials) and to pyrolysis followed by acid washing (PW materials). All the materials were characterized by proximate analysis, total organic carbon (TOC) and inorganic carbon (IC), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and N 2 adsorption isotherms (specific surface area ( S BET )and porosity determination). Sludge from the two factories proved to have distinct physicochemical properties, mainly in what concerns IC. After pyrolysis, the washing step was essential to reduce IC and to considerably increase S BET , yet with high impact in the final production yield. Among the materials here produced, PW materials from PS were those having the highest S BET values (387–488 m 2 g −1 ). Overall, it was found that precursors from different factories might originate final materials with distinct characteristics, being essential to take into account this source of variability when considering paper mill sludge as a raw material. Nevertheless, for PS, low variability was found between batches, which points out to the reliability of such residues to be used as precursors of carbon adsorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The substantial expansion of the Brazilian pulp and paper industry in the last years resulted in a significant increase in the solid waste generation. This paper investigates the production of pellets using primary sludge from the effluent treatment plant of a kraft pulp mill, as a fuel for producing energy, using a novel wet route process. The pellet samples were produced in a laboratory pelletizing press, which has a horizontal circular matrix. The samples were characterized by moisture content, high heating value, ash content, dimensions (diameter and length), mechanical durability and fines content. The net heating value and energetic density were also measured. The pellets manufactured with primary sludge were compared to the European standard for non-woody pellets. Pelletization caused a reduction of the moisture content by 37.8 %, and increased the net heating value by 41 % and bulk density by approximately 39 %, which resulted in a 263 % increase in the material´s energetic density. Pellet production using a wet route process was appropriate for the primary sludge, and produced pellets with a high mechanical durability (99.3 %) and low fines content (0.062 %), indicating the potential of thermal valorization for incineration in the biomass boiler to produce high-quality steam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review explores recent advancements in the manufacturing of cellulose nanofiber (CNF)-based cellulose nanopaper (CNP). The analysis delves into customizing CNPs through nanofiber manufacturing, mechanical refining, and chemical treatments. The report underscores the growing interest in CNPs derived from CNF due to their exceptional properties and eco-friendly attributes. CNP strength significantly enhanced through mechanical refining encompassing cellulose nanofibrillation were breaking down of cellulose into nanofibers takes place. Conversely, dense CNF network formed through filtration and casting method. Chemical treatments such as dispersion, functionalization, and coating methods followed by drying and consolidation introduce custom functionalities for diverse applications. These applications span packaging, electronics, energy harvesting, EMI shielding, optoelectronics, nanogenerators, transparent conducting films, water treatment, bioelectronics, and neuromorphic computing. The study conducts an in-depth investigation to assess CNP's effects on promoting sustainability and minimizing environmental waste, making a significant contribution to the circular economy. This investigation underscores the pursuit of innovation and aligns with the principles of progressing toward a more environmentally sustainable future. [Display omitted] • Explores CNF production, refining and chemical treatments for CNP customization. • Remarkable properties of CNP draw academic and industrial interest. • CNP applied in packaging, electronics, energy, and environmental science. • Investigates role of CNP in circular economy. • Emphasizes CNPs as eco-friendly, fostering innovation and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collection, as the first stage of the recycling process, and pre-processing to increase waste stream purity constitute key operations for achieving high recycling rates and a closed loop in the circular economy. For wastepaper recycling in Hong Kong, it is the semi-formal-informal recycling (SFIR) sector that plays a central role in both stages. This study analyses the so far little explored SFIR stakeholder network in Hong Kong and sheds light on value chains, recovered waste paper quantities and the impact of policies on the sector. The findings show that SFIR stakeholders reclaim 55.6 t/recycling station/month of wastepaper and thereby achieve about a 5.7 times higher reclaim rate than the formal-private recycling system. Critical to this achievement is the SFIR transaction network, which enables its stakeholders to develop a value chain and thereby generate an added value of around 1900 HKD (243.9 USD/t) for wastepaper. Given limited circular structures in Hong Kong, financial subsidies are critical to sustain the SFIR's operations over the short-term. However, over the long-term legalization and integration of its stakeholders are necessary to ensure an economically and socially sustainable wastepaper recovery system in Hong Kong. [Display omitted] • Qualitative & quantitative analysis of the semi-formal-informal recycling (SFIR) sector. • The SFIR's wastepaper value chain achieves a cumulative added value of 1900 HKD/t. • The SFIR recovered 5.7 times higher capacities than the formal system in 2021. • Financial support can enhance the SFIR sector's recovery capacities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Product–service systems (PSS) have the potential to align businesses' financial incentives with environmental objectives. Conceptual and qualitative research on non‐ownership consumption suggests that such offerings benefit from dense local networks, which motivate system adoption and use. However, geographic network effects and their magnitude have not been examined with field data capturing revealed behavior. This paper leverages a large field dataset from a system for reusable take‐out food containers to evaluate the effect of increased geographic network density of participating restaurants on (a) the acquisition of new users and (b) the frequency of system use. Based on fixed effects Poisson panel models, this paper finds statistically significant and practically meaningful positive effects of increased geographic network density on acquiring new users. Notably, marginal effects of increased geographic network density on user acquisition diminish as networks get denser. In terms of frequency of use, no significant effects of geographic network density are identified. These results contribute to the literature on non‐ownership consumption by presenting nuanced field evidence of indirect, cross‐side network effects in PSS. Furthermore, findings encourage businesses and policymakers to promote PSS with dense local networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a spatial equilibrium problem for a pulp and paper supply chain network under the Emission Trading System (ETS) and the circular economy principles. The developed closed-loop supply chain model, based on the variational inequality theory, accounts for the forest deployment and the production of paper using both virgin pulp and recyclable paper waste in an area that is subject to the ETS. In addition, it considers the exchanges of virgin pulp, paper, recyclable and not-recyclable paper waste between this regulated area and geographical zones where no environmental policies apply. The aim of this paper is to investigate the ETS impacts on the pulp and paper industries located in an environmentally regulated area in terms of operating costs, production and trading volumes of the aforementioned commodities, and emissions generated. The case study focuses on the European pulp and paper companies, which are among the energy-intensive industries deemed to be exposed to the carbon leakage risk as a consequence of the ETS application. Sensitivity analyses on the carbon price value and on the trade flexibility are conducted. Our results show that the ETS implies additional costs for the European pulp and paper companies and induces them to resort more on imports of virgin pulp and paper from not-regulated zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many jurisdictions across the globe consider circular economy as their principal strategy in their climate action plan, which aims to reduce emissions in the short-term and eventually reach to net-zero emissions. The creation of a sustainable and resilient future requires the adoption of clean technologies and resource efficient technology development that underpin a circular economy as opposed to the current linear economy. The food packaging market is saturated with inexpensive, single-use, and petroleum-based polymers. Only a small fraction of such packaging materials are recycled, which leads to spillover in the environment and accumulation in landfills, causing a substantial ecological challenge. Thus, increased environmental concerns in combination with consumer demands for greater quality and longer shelf-life of food products spurs the need for the development of biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable packaging materials. In this space, paper packaging is the front runner. Unfortunately, the replacement of plastic packaging with regular paper designs typically reduces the shelf stability due to its inadequate barrier performance. Hence, surface coating with bio-based polymers is an emerging approach to confer the desired barrier properties to papers. This review aims to provide a critical and comprehensive overview of the most impactful and important advancements in improving the barrier properties of sustainable polymer-coated paper packaging systems. Also, developing active paper packaging materials by incorporating antimicrobial agents in coatings as an attractive option for protecting food from spoilage and extending shelf-life is outlined. Biodegradability aspects, as well as future trends and opportunities of sustainable paper packaging platforms are also emphasized. • Coated paper is an appealing alternative to replace single-use plastics in packaging applications. • To maintain the sustainability of paper packaging materials, the coating needs to be sustainable. • Rational design of sustainable coating could involve multiphase systems for enhanced performance. • Oxygen, moisture, and grease barrier properties are key attributes coating can bring to paper packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Paper wastes possess distinct characteristics yet viable for platform chemical production. • Cellulose content and crystallinity highly influence the levulinic acid yield. • Thermally stable cellulosic fibres in papers require higher energy for hydrolysis. • Alkaline mineral fillers in papers adversely affect the acid-catalysed conversion. • FeCl 3 is a safe and efficient catalyst for valorising lignocellulosic paper wastes. Lignocellulosic paper waste constitutes a major waste stream globally, which should be valorised for chemical production. However, paper properties (e.g. , feedstock composition, cellulosic crystallinity, and thermal stability/degradability) vary with raw materials and pulping processes. This study investigated levulinic acid (LA), hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), and furfural production by H 2 SO 4 and FeCl 3 catalysed conversion of nine types of paper wastes in a green solvent system (1:1 γ‐valerolactone/water). At 160–180 °C for 1–20 min, ∼23–27 wt% LA yield was achieved from sanitary papers, tracing/parchment paper, and paper food box mainly containing crystalline cellulose, while a lower LA yield (∼10–20 wt%) was obtained from other paper wastes with high contents of ash and lignin. A higher selectivity towards HMF (∼12 mol%) was achieved in the presence of FeCl 3. A furfural yield of ∼ 4–7.5 wt% was also obtained from the hemicellulose content. This study elucidates crucial factors and desirable characteristics of paper waste for catalytic valorisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The excessive consumption of the disposable paper cup causes adverse effects to the environment, requiring passing from the linear model to the circular one. Objective. In this sense, the research focused on international experiences of exploitation in tendency to circular economy regarding disposable cups. Materials and methods. From the bibliographic review, a comparative analysis related to three lines of the circular model was developed. Results Five alternatives for use and three more applied recycling technologies were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emission of off-odors from mechanically recycled plastics severely limits their re-introduction into the market for the production of new objects, for the same use or even for less demanding applications, thus hindering the implementation of an effective circular economy for plastics. The addition of adsorbing agents during the extrusion of polymers represents one of the most promising strategy to reduce the odorous emissions of plastics, due to its characteristics of cost-effectiveness, flexibility and low energy consumption. The novelty of this work lies in the assessment of zeolites as VOC adsorbents during the extrusion of recycled plastics. They appear more suitable than other types of adsorbents, due to their ability to capture and "hold" the adsorbed substances at the high temperatures of the extrusion process. Moreover, the effectiveness of this deodorization strategy was compared with the traditional degassing technique. Two types of mixed polyolefin wastes, coming from completely different collection and recycling processes, were tested: Fil-S (Film-Small), deriving from post-consumer flexible films of small size, and PW (pulper waste), which is the residual plastic waste obtained from the paper recycling process. The melt compounding of the recycled materials with two micrometric zeolites (zeolite 13X and Z310) resulted as more effective in the off-odors removal with respect to degassing. In particular, the highest reduction (−45%) of the Average Odor Intensity (AOI) was measured for both PW/Z310 and Fil-S/13X systems at 4 wt% of the zeolites' amount, compared with the corresponding untreated recyclates. Finally, by combining degassing and melt compounding with zeolites, the best result was obtained for the composite Fil-S/13X, whose Average Odor Intensity resulted as quite close (+22%) to the one of the virgin LDPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Coal ash is an important source of germanium, a crucial resource in modern society. • A coal gasification ash can be used both as germanium source and as building material. • An integrated valorization process for a real coal gasification fly ash is shown. • A more circular and sustainable recycling alternative for this waste is presented. • Better waste management option for coal gasification plants and old ash deposits. A Circular Waste Management alternative is considered in this paper in which a complete ash valorization process is proposed for an Integrated Gasification with Combined Cycle fly ash, trying to extract maximum value from this waste before it is discarded. In the paper, germanium, a scarce resource vital in our modern society, is first extracted from fly ash using water, with an extraction yield of 85%, and subsequently, the leached fly ash is used in the manufacture of fire-resistant boards containing 60% ash, thereby avoiding its disposal in a landfill. The potential environmental impact caused by the two stages of the process was analyzed, and the final effluent was considered to achieve a zero-discharge objective. This paper contributes to the development of a more sustainable management alternative for an industrial waste produced in increased amounts and provides the basis for a symbiotic coupling relationship among various industrial sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing concern over environmental sustainability has prompted various industries to reassess their practices and explore greener alternatives. Dentistry, as a significant contributor to waste generation, is actively seeking methods to minimize its environmental footprint. This paper examines the environmental implications of clear aligner therapy (CAT) in orthodontics and explores strategies to prioritize sustainability in aligner manufacturing and usage. CAT has gained popularity as a viable alternative to traditional fixed appliances due to advancements in biomaterials and computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM) technologies. The global market for clear aligners is expanding rapidly, with significant growth projected in the coming years. To address these challenges, this paper proposes adopting the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle, and rethink (4Rs) in orthodontic practices. Strategies such as minimizing resource consumption, incorporating recycled materials, and promoting proper aligner disposal and recycling can significantly reduce environmental harm. This paper explores emerging technologies and materials to mitigate the environmental impacts of CAT. Additionally, initiatives promoting aligner recycling and repurposing offer promising avenues for reducing plastic waste and fostering a circular economy. In conclusion, while CAT offers numerous benefits in orthodontic treatment, its environmental impact cannot be overlooked. By implementing sustainable practices and embracing innovative solutions, the orthodontic community can contribute to a more environmentally conscious future while continuing to provide quality care to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) can significantly contribute to the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by offering innovative solutions and enhancing the efficiency of processes aimed at achieving these goals. There is a perceived need for studies which may look at these connections. Against this background, this paper reports on a study that investigated the connections between artificial intelligence and the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at higher education institutions. The paper deployed a multi-methods approach. The first one was a bibliometric analysis of publications in the topic. The second method used was an assessment of a set of case studies, that illustrate how artificial intelligence is being deployed among a sample of universities in support of efforts to implement the SDGs and a survey aimed at identifying current and future trends. The data gathered allow some trends to be identified. For instance, that there is a wide range of applications of AI to sustainability in High Education Institutions (HEI), to be chosen in terms of campus operations and greening, outreach and community engagement, research, teaching and learning, and university management. Also, the paper has identified successful examples of the deployment of AI in various sustainability contexts, illustrating what are the success factors for them. Moreover, the survey identified the fact that the use of AI is quite widely spread, and is likely to increase in coming years, due to a greater demand. Finally, AI also poses several challenges, such as authenticity and ethics in assessment (case studies), 'lack of access to software/materials', and 'lack of information technology training for myself/my colleagues' (survey). Overall, AI offers a powerful toolset to accelerate and enhance the implementation of the UN SDGs. By analysing vast datasets, predicting outcomes, optimising processes, and providing new insights, AI has the potential to address complex sustainability challenges across various sectors. HIGHLIGHTS: Artificial intelligence (AI) is fast becoming a component of modern life, being used in many areas. AI has a growing impact on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It can catalyse innovations in areas as varied as circular economy and smart cities. AI offers a vital nexus between sustainable development and effective climate change adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind turbine blades are primarily composed of fiberglass composite, posing a significant recycling challenge for the wind energy industry. This paper introduces a novel recycling approach by comprehensively analyzing the pozzolanic reactivity of recycled powder as a new supplementary cementitious material (SCM). A systematic characterization using laboratory techniques is first described, establishing both the chemical and morphological properties of the powder and suggesting that the material was likely to be capable of acting as a pozzolan. The effects of thermal and mechanical processing on the reactivity characteristics of the material were elucidated using a suite of analytical and standardized characterization approaches. It was found that through heat treatment to remove impinging resin and subsequent mechanical processing to synthesize a fine powder, the reactivity of the material could be improved to an extent at which the performance characteristics of a conventional class F fly ash were closely matched. For instance, mortar containing 10% of thermally-mechanically processed powder achieves 95% of the 28-day strength of cement mortar. This paper opens the door for both the use of these materials to bolster dwindling supplies of supplementary cementitious materials, and to provide a much-needed reprocessing route for waste fiberglass which are otherwise highly challenging to dispose of cost-effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benefits of additive manufacturing (AM) are widely recognised, boosting the AM method's use in industry, while it is predicted AM will dominate the global manufacturing industry. Alas, 3D printing's growth is hindered by its sustainability. AM methods generate vast amounts of residuals considered as waste, which are disposed of. Additionally, the energy consumed, the materials used, and numerous other factors render AM unsustainable. This paper aims to bring forward all documented solutions in the literature. The spotlight is on potential solutions for the Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) AM, focusing on Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), as these are candidates for mass manufacturing by industry. Solutions are evaluated critically, to identify research gaps regarding the recyclability of residual material. Only then can AM dominate the manufacturing industry, which is extremely important since this is a milestone for our transition into sustainable manufacturing. This transition itself is a complex bottleneck on our quest for becoming a sustainable civilisation. Unlike previous reviews that primarily concentrate on specific AM recycling materials, this paper explores the state of the art in AM recycling processes, incorporating the latest market data and projections. By offering a holistic and forward-looking perspective on the evolution and potential of AM, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and industry professionals alike. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a detailed review of the plasma gasification process for waste disposal. Due to Shifting economies and consumerism culture, ample change can be seen across the globe in the form of rapid industrialisation and burgeoning urbanisation, which results in a massive increase in waste generation. Plasma gasification technology is an emerging solution for processing a wide range of waste making it a highly sustainable, efficient, and ecologically sound process. This literature review discusses the feasibility of the plasma gasification method and its superiority over other conventional waste disposal techniques. A comprehensive analysis of different methods of plasma generation for gasification is done in this literature review. The review paper presents a detailed coverup of the entire process of plasma gasification and post-processes. The article discusses the notable advancement, current scenario, and possibilities in plasma gasification methodology in terms of the design of plasma torch, modelling of gasifiers, generation of syngas, and power production. It provides an overview of advanced simulation tools helpful in the analysis of the Waste-to-Energy (WtE) process. This literature review aims to provide an overview of the recent advances in plasma gasification, highlighting the technical aspects, environmental benefits, and economic viability of the technology. It also reviews the latest research and developments in plasma gasification and discusses the challenges and limitations of the technology, as well as the future prospects and potential applications. • Plasma gasification methodology for waste treatment is discussed in detail. • Prominent thermal and non-thermal practices are discussed and compared in this literature review. • Selective use of plasma gas for enhanced efficiency and optimised gas yield/composition. • Hybrid systems offer versatility in processing diverse feedstocks and can achieve higher energy efficiencies. • Plasma-catalysis approach with NTP shows desirable syngas yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • More than 220 papers are reviewed to provide insights about waste management in smart cities. • The current status of IoT-enabled waste management practices is reviewed. • A conceptual framework is offered for monitoring of product lifecycle data. • The need to connect waste management to the whole product lifecycle is discussed. • The importance of new business models on improving waste recovery is highlighted. Abstract The potential of smart cities in remediating environmental problems in general and waste management, in particular, is an important question that needs to be investigated in academic research. Built on an integrative review of the literature, this study offers insights into the potential of smart cities and connected communities in facilitating waste management efforts. Shortcomings of existing waste management practices are highlighted and a conceptual framework for a centralized waste management system is proposed, where three interconnected elements are discussed: (1) an infrastructure for proper collection of product lifecycle data to facilitate full visibility throughout the entire lifespan of a product, (2) a set of new business models relied on product lifecycle data to prevent waste generation, and (3) an intelligent sensor-based infrastructure for proper upstream waste separation and on-time collection. The proposed framework highlights the value of product lifecycle data in reducing waste and enhancing waste recovery and the need for connecting waste management practices to the whole product life-cycle. An example of the use of tracking and data sharing technologies for investigating the waste management issues has been discussed. Finally, the success factors for implementing the proposed framework and some thoughts on future research directions have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production systems are being restructured to close production cycles via implementing circular economy (CE) practices. The planted tree industry in Brazil has shown potential for applying CE practices due to its efficient use of resources and inclination towards environmental innovation. However, some gaps and difficulties have been observed in several industrial segments so that the logic of the circular production system is put into practice more effectively and intensely. In this context, the aim was to investigate the use and impacts of CE practices in the Brazilian planted tree industry by sector of operation and scale of enterprises based on the ReSOLVE framework. Data were collected from 34 companies that answered a questionnaire, corresponding to 47.2% of Brazilian planted tree industry companies. Data analysis involved univariate and multivariate statistical techniques, considering the grouping of companies by sector of activity (forest producer, pulp and paper, and timber processing) and scale (small, medium, and large). The results revealed that "pulp and paper" and medium- and large-scale companies had the most significant application of CE practices and reported more significant impacts. [Display omitted] • Explores a segmented analysis of the circular economy by scale and sub-sector groups. • Scores of circular practices and their impacts are presented according to the groups. • The association between circular practices and impacts by group are analyzed. • Propositions to enable the adoption of circular practices are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even though the recycling of paper and paperboard is quite successful when compared to the recycling of other resources, there are many things to improve. Recovering the used paper and paperboard without contamination and sending it back to the papermill that produced it would enhance the recycling potential and efficiency of recovered fiber resources. Close collaboration between a paper and packaging company and a logistics company has made a big improvement in recycling and achieved the circular economy of fiber resources. It is time to find better ways to collaborate, thereby improving our capability to keep our planet green. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mining industry produces massive amounts of waste that in contact with oxygen can result in leaching of metals. Access to a suitable cover-material for the mine waste is sometimes limited, creating a driving force for recycling industrial residues for these purposes. Green liquor dregs (GLD), an industrial residue from paper and pulp production, has the potential to be used in a sealing layer as an amendment to till. Though hydraulic conductivity is commonly used to evaluate the quality of the sealing layer, field application from laboratory investigations is challenging as many factors, apart from vast variations in the physical properties of both the till and the GLD, control hydraulic conductivity. In this study, 5–20 wt.% of GLD from two different paper mills, with different total solid contents and particle size distributions, were mixed with a silty till with varying total solid contents to investigate how the materials' dry density, initial water content, and compaction affects the hydraulic conductivity. We found that the initial water content of the materials was the most important factor. With a drier till and GLD, more GLD should be added to attain the lowest hydraulic conductivity possible. The compaction was not found to notably affect the mixtures' hydraulic conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since its inception nearly 100 years ago, flexible packaging has seen tremendous growth due to its ability to meet packaging needs at the lowest cost and with the least amount of material usage. The modern era of flexible packaging began in the early twentieth century with the introduction of cellophane, a transparent "wonder" film which enabled the development of large distribution channels of pre-packaged goods and changed consumer lifestyles and buying habits. New processes and materials have continually advanced flexible packaging technology. In concert, the scientific understanding of materials and polymer processing has progressed. This paper traces the history of flexible packaging, describing major developments in technology and the science behind them. Flexible packaging has constantly evolved to meet new demands and challenges. This bodes well for the future as the industry address its end-of-life shortcomings and moves towards a more circular economy. Learnings from the past, guided by improved scientific insight and engineering principles, can be leveraged to adapt flexible packaging to changing market, societal and regulatory demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the current situation as regards the circular economy in agriculture in Romania, while also taking into consideration its global impact. We have here a system globally endorsed by the United Nations. It is also important for regional organisations such as the European Union or la Francophonie as the circular economy seems to have a high number of advantages in tackling climate change, creating a sustainable food chain, improving the organic character of the agriculture, etc. From that perspective Romania represents an interesting case study as it is both a European Union member state and a member of the Francophonie. It thus follows both sets of rules and recommendations in order to improve its status. The paper uses the bibliographic method and reviews the main documents that settle this aspect and presents the legal framework for circular economy. The put into practice of the circular economy in the Romanian agriculture would bring a series of advantages (environment, food safety, etc.) while also requiring systemic transformations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Wood, paper, agricultural waste offers renewable resources for high-value chemicals. • Biorefineries need to combine biotechnological and physico-chemical approaches. • Industrial lignocellulosic waste has high potential in circular bioeconomy. Lignocellulosic biomass has a promising role in a circular bioeconomy and may be used to produce valuable molecules for green chemistry. Lignocellulosic biomass, such as food waste, agricultural waste, wood, paper or cardboard, corresponded to 15.7% of all waste produced in Europe in 2020, and has a high potential as a secondary raw material for industrial processes. This review first presents industrial lignocellulosic waste sources, in terms of their composition, quantities and types of lignocellulosic residues. Secondly, the possible high added-value chemicals obtained from transformation of lignocellulosic waste are detailed, as well as their potential for applications in the food industry, biomedical, energy or chemistry sectors, including as sources of polyphenols, enzymes, bioplastic precursors or biofuels. In a third part, various available transformation treatments, such as physical treatments with ultrasound or heat, chemical treatments with acids or bases, and biological treatments with enzymes or microorganisms, are presented. The last part discusses the perspectives of the use of lignocellulosic waste and the fact that decreasing the cost of transformation is one of the major issues for improving the use of lignocellulosic biomass in a circular economy and green chemistry approach, since it is currently often more expensive than petroleum-based counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a great demand for human–machine interfaces (HMIs) in emerging electronics applications. However, commercially available plastic-based HMIs are primarily rigid, application-specific, and hard to recycle and dispose of due to their non-biodegradability. This results in electronic and plastic waste, potentially damaging the environment by ending up in landfills and water resources. This work presents a green, capacitive pressure-sensitive (CPS), touch sensor-based keypad as a disposable, wireless, and intelligent HMI to mitigate these problems. The CPS touch keypads were fabricated through a facile green fabrication process by direct writing of graphite-on-paper, using readily available materials such as paper and pencils, etc. The interdigitated capacitive (IDC) touch sensors were optimized by analyzing the number of electrode fingers, dimensions, and spacing between the electrode fingers. The CPS touch keypad was customized to wirelessly control a robotic arm's movements based on the touch input. A low-pressure touch allows slow-speed robotic arm movement for precision movements, and a high-pressure touch allows high-speed robotic arm movement to cover the large movements quickly. The green CPS touch keypad, as a disposable wireless HMI, has the potential to enforce a circular economy by mitigating electronic and plastic waste, which supports the vision of a sustainable and green world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agro-wastes valorization focusses on production of high value-added products, such as cellulose nanofibers (CNF), and contributes to reduce the environmental impact of these residues. CNF have been used successfully as papermaking additives and some previsions maintain that this sector will become the most important, demanding CNF at a reasonable cost. Furthermore, the optimization of the production process of CNF from agricultural residues would contribute to the goals of a circular economy, the development of rural areas and the costs reduction by producing CNF of the minimum quality fit-for-use in recycled paper. In this study, CNF was produced from two agricultural residues; corn (C-CNF) and rape (R-CNF) stalk pulps, pretreated with bleaching, refining and TEMPO-mediated oxidation. Coagulant and cationic polyacrylamide (dual system) and chitosan were the retention systems. Results show the difficulty of predicting the effect of CNF based on their properties, as fibrillation degree or anionic charge, on the improvement of mechanical properties of recycled paper. That is proved by the low differences in tensile index (TI) improvement (∼15% by adding 0.5% C-CNF combined with dual system), obtained with CNF with very different properties. The expensive TEMPO pretreatment could be avoid by applying bleaching pretreatment to the corn pulp, increasing the TI up to 15% without affecting drainage and decoupling the simultaneous deterioration of drainage with TI improvement (drainage time decreased nearly 50% and 20% adding bleached R-CNF and C-CNF, respectively, combined with chitosan). Similar improvements on TI can be achieved by replacing the dual retention system by chitosan without addition of CNF, but the combination of CNF and chitosan allows achieving the highest TI values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among soft magnetic materials, non-grain-oriented electrical steel (NGOES) has emerged as a promising option for various applications. NGOES material plays a crucial role across the entire energy value chain, spanning from power generation through generators to the consumption of electrical energy in electric motors and appliances within the electrical components industry which can lead to a notable enhancement in the performance of electric motors. NGOES are widely used for soft magnetic applications due to their cost and also their superior magnetic properties, including high electrical resistivity, excellent saturation magnetization, and minimal magnetostriction. NGOES are anticipated to serve as a driving force in the future global market for electric power consumption. The magnetic properties of NGOES are profoundly influenced by metallurgical factors such as Si content, grain size, crystallographic texture, sheet thickness, and surface roughness. These crucial variables play a crucial role in shaping the magnetic characteristics of NGOES materials which will be covered in this review paper. This paper provides an overview of different manufacturing routes for NGOES, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of these processes. Moreover, alternative manufacturing techniques and their capability to optimize the microstructure and to fabricate high Si NGOES sheets are discussed. Also, it addresses the challenges associated with mass-producing materials with high Si content using traditional methods. These advancements in this area present promising opportunities for enhancing the manufacturing processes of NGOES and ultimately enhancing the performance of future electrical machines and generators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of recycled polymers into additive manufacturing (AM) processes offers a promising opportunity for advancing sustainability within the manufacturing industry. This review paper summarizes existing research and developments related to the use of recycled materials in AM, focusing on distinct polymers, such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), among others. Key topics explored include the availability of recycled filaments on the market, challenges associated with material variability and traceability, and efforts toward establishing ethical product standards and sustainability characterization methodologies. Regulatory considerations and standards development by organizations such as ASTM and ISO are discussed, along with recommendations for future advancements in improving the sustainability of filament recycling and achieving net-zero emissions in AM processes. The collective efforts outlined in this paper underscore the potential of recycled polymers in AM to foster a more sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal sewage sludge (MSS) is an inevitable byproduct of wastewater treatment, with increasing amounts year by year worldwide. The development of environmentally and economically acceptable methods for the sustainable management of MSS is a major environmental challenge. Nowadays, sludge management practices, besides the commonly used stabilization methods, focus attention on alternative sludge-disposal pathways, which encompass enhanced energy and valuable-resource recovery. This review presents the recent advances in the recovery of selected value-added products from sludge. Because of the high nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations, waste MSS can be a nutrient source (e.g., struvite). This paper discusses the conditions of and advances in the technology of struvite recovery. As in the extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) of biological sludge, alginate-like exopolymers (ALEs) are present in MSS systems that treat municipal wastewater. The yields, dynamics in content, and characterization of ALEs and their possible applications were analyzed. MSS is an important source of humic substances. Their occurrence, characterization, and yields in various types of MSS (e.g., untreated, composted, and digested sludge) and main methods of application are presented. The important aspects and trends of MSS pyrolysis, including the thermochemical conversion to biochar, are discussed in this review. The characterization of biochar derived from MSS and the assessment of the environmental risks are also covered. This paper explores the potential use of biochar derived from MSS in various applications, including soil amendment, carbon sequestration, and environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is highly needed and widely used to assess the environmental performance of circular economy (CE) measures such as reusing and sharing. However, the results of such LCAs are hampered by limited knowledge about the use phase of consumer products and oversimplification of important use phase aspects such as product functionality, user behavior, displacement, and rebound effects. This paper aims to validate the usefulness of a framework designed to assist practitioners in the generation and utilization of such knowledge in LCAs of circular measures. To validate the framework, a case study is used: reuse of shell jackets enabled by "premium secondhand" stores for outdoor equipment and clothing. The paper demonstrates that conclusions about the environmental performance of reuse can easily be altered depending on the functional unit definition, whether real user behavior data are used, and whether imperfect displacement and rebound effects are considered. For instance, shell jacket life cycles that include reuse and thus may be labeled "circular" have significantly higher environmental impact per use occasion than "linear" ones (used by one principal user the entire lifespan), since "circular" shell jackets are used less frequently, in particular during their first use span. Through facilitating the generation and utilization of environmentally relevant use phase data, which are otherwise often overlooked, the framework seems capable of supporting a better understanding of the environmental performance of CE measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buildings are energy- and resource-hungry: their construction and use account for around 39% of global carbon dioxide emissions; they consume around 40% of all the energy produced; they are responsible for over 35% of the EU's total waste generation; and account for about 50% of all extracted (fossil) materials. Therefore, they present a significant challenge to meeting national and international Net Zero targets of reducing greenhouse emissions and fossil resource use. The CircularB Project, is at the heart of this issue, which will underpin synergies of multi-scale circular perspectives (from materials, to components, to assets and built environments), digital transformation solutions, data-driven and complexity science, stakeholder behavioral science, and interdisciplinary capabilities towards achievable, affordable and marketable circular solutions for both new and existing buildings, for sustainable urban design, and for circular built environments across Europe. This paper contributes to the project by deriving new insights into the stakeholders' influences, inter-relationships, and obstacles in the implementation of circular economy concepts on existing building stocks in Europe, which represent over 90% of whole building assets. In order to identify and derive the insights, our study is rigorously based on (i) a robust critical literature review of key documentations such as articles, standards, policy reports, strategic roadmaps and white papers; and (ii) interviews with relevant stakeholders and decision makers. Uniquely, our work spans across all scales of CE implementation from materials, to products and components, to existing building stocks, and to living built environments. The findings point out the current challenges and obstacles required to be tackled. Inadequacies of financial incentives and governmental enforcement (via policy, legislation, or directive) are commonly found to be the most critical obstacles found throughout Europe. Circular economy is the global challenge and not just a single country can resolve the climate issue without the cooperation of other countries. The insights thus highlight the essential need for harmonized actions and tactical/pragmatic policies promoted and regulated by the European Commission, national and local governments who can dominate the influence, promote inter-relationship, and overcome the barriers towards circular economy much more effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The circular economy embodies a contemporary approach centered on sustainability and waste reduction, gradually integrating into production and consumption practices. Nonetheless, it has often remained a theoretical or abstract concept across various economic sectors. This paper focuses on the potential implementation of circularity principles, using the production process of noise barriers, manufactured by the production company based in Prešov, Slovak Republic, as an illustrative example. Through a comprehensive case study, it was determined that reintegrating generated waste into the production cycle is feasible. Moreover, there is potential for a cascading effect, where original waste could be utilized across multiple production processes. This underscores how the circular economy fosters economic efficiency, innovation, and creativity in diverse areas such as design, product diversification, input sourcing, and production planning. The paper's significance lies in its thorough examination of the production process, quantifying various types of waste to uncover innovative methods of converting waste into new input materials. Additionally, it offers insights and actionable guidance towards embracing multicircularity (via a circularity spiral), along with strategies for identifying opportunities to incorporate circularity elements into production schemes. This approach promises extensive economic, environmental, and social benefits, considering product nature and usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we investigate the market size of all materials and products presently produced from (organic) carbon and we present a method to estimate the intrinsic recycling potential of these materials/chemicals as a function of their respective applications. The method is based on the expert assessment of a number of variables that are important within the different application categories and markets of the carbon-based materials/chemicals. Applying the method, the paper presents the recycling potential of all carbon-based products. Following, an estimation of the amount of new products that can be produced each year through recycling of discarded products is presented and the amount of carbon that needs to come from other sustainable sources to fulfil our demand for new products is calculated. We distinguish nine different categories of (organic) carbon-based materials/chemicals: plastics, textile fibres, thermoset resins, rubbers, surfactants, solvents, fine chemicals, paper/board and wood products. Within these nine categories the most important materials/chemicals types were taken into account. Fossil-based and bio-based materials/chemicals were assessed separately. For each of the materials/chemicals types, the market size in terms of mass (Mt) was calculated for the main applications in which they are applied. Next, for all materials/chemicals types in these applications, the maximum recycling potential, in case mechanical or physical recycling methods are applied, was assessed, using an expert panel. Also, inevitable leakage of materials/chemicals in the different applications was assessed. Finally, the amount of feedstock coming from recycling streams that may be made available for chemical recycling or carbon capture and utilisation technologies was derived. From this, the magnitude of carbon-based materials/chemicals that need to be replaced each year by other renewable feedstock than recycled content in terms of Mton carbon was calculated. The analysis is relevant in view of implementation of a circular economy and reuse and recycling of materials, to combat depletion of raw materials. Next, it is relevant in view of phasing out fossil-feedstock to combat climate change. Our analysis indicates that the recycling potential of carbon-based materials and products through mechanical or physical methods lies around 50%, even in a system that is fully optimised for recycling. Chemical recycling and carbon capture and utilisation may provide another 25% of the renewable-carbon feedstock needed, but they generally require far more energy and other inputs to produce new materials and chemicals than the mechanical and physical recycling methods. The remaining demand for renewable-carbon feedstock thus needs to come from either biomass or CO 2 through carbon capture and utilisation technologies. Based on our findings, we argue that the composition of our present carbon-based products pool needs to be redesigned on a fundamental molecular level, towards material types that contain more oxygen. Carbon-based materials that contain more oxygen generally can be recycled more efficiently, and are also easier to produce from the alternative feedstocks biomass and CO 2 through CCU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]