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The US and the EU have adopted contrasting pathways in their pursuit of increased sustainability. This editorial highlights such contrasts with respect to paper and nonwovens products. The American way, at least at the federal level, depends on consumer input, which can have an impact on corporate decisions and practices. Progress with respect to sustainability in the European Union has a higher reliance upon regulations. Each approach has merits as well as deficiencies. A regulation-dependent approach sometimes just moves problems to other parts of the world. A consumer-driven approach does not have a good way to deal with a need for systematic change, such as systems to recycle textile and nonwoven materials. It follows that a combined approach, involving both consumer demand and regulations, can be recommended as a most effective path forward. In addition, applications of artificial intelligence have potential to reconcile societal needs with future industrial practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Community is striving for a sustainable society as suggested by the UN's 2015 sustainability goals. The circular economy in the paper and packaging industry is of particular importance here because it consumes many resources. The paper industry in Germany with a fiber recycling rate of 85% in 2022 is already a pioneer and role model for other industries. All materials should be recyclable. Fiber-based composites/laminates are currently becoming increasingly important. Essential questions are: which collection systems and recycling paths should be used for fiber-based composites/laminates, and where are there currently challenges with recycling? To answer these questions, 58 questionnaires answered by German experts and practitioners in the German paper industry were evaluated. Wet-strength papers, adhesives, plastic coatings and wax dispersions were perceived as a problem by 70% of all respondents, and packaging residues by almost 40%. Additionally, 90% stated that the composition of paper for recycling changes regularly due to legislation, trends and innovations, while 60% attributed this to recent changes in legislation. For at least 80%, virgin fibers from packaging are valuable for paper recycling, but only 15% of respondents stated that virgin fibers compensate for the disadvantages of rejects. Almost 90% expected challenges with fiber-based composites/laminates in the existing paper for recycling processes. Overall, the collection and recycling of fiber-based composites/laminates in conventional paper for recycling collection and the recycling system is not desirable. An integrated collection, sorting and recycling system should be considered, especially because a further increase in fiber-based composites is to be expected. In the end, the design for recycling and following recycling guidelines are the key to the recycling industry in the future. Good recyclability of fiber-based composites/laminates would improve their acceptance by paper recyclers. Their virgin fibers are particularly valuable. The results of our study are relevant to the recycling and fiber industry, standard-setting bodies, regulatory authorities and research. The limitation of this study is that experts from the paper industry were interviewed, but the recyclability of the fiber materials was not analyzed by measurement, and the machine technology of the interviewees could not be examined and evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used in paper products since the 1960s. PFAS emissions during the life cycle of these products have been substantial sources of these substances to the environment. Here, a total of 37 PFAS were analysed in 13 paper products sampled in 2021, for which some were made of virgin paper and others recycled paper, including food contact materials (FCM), packaging, and a notebook. In addition, different fractions of the recycling process of corrugated paper and board were sampled at a Norwegian cardboard recycling plant and analysed for the same PFAS, to get an overview of PFAS in the recycling stream of these materials in Norway. PFAS were found in recycled paper and board, indicating PFAS can be a non-intentionally added substance (NIAS) in recycled paper products. Sum of targeted PFAS detected in paper products (including products made of virgin and recycled materials) ranged between 0.4 and 971 µg kg−1, dominated by SAmPAP diester and 6:2 FTS (0–62% and 0–98%, respectively). The sum of targeted PFAS in returned corrugated paper and board in Norway is at least 32 kg per year (6 mg per capita per year). Recycling is important to ensure sustainability. As part of the broad PFAS restriction in Europe, PFAS are to be restricted in paper and board materials. Thus, lower levels of PFAS entering the recycling stream are expected in the future. Monitoring is necessary to assess reductions of PFAS in the paper waste stream due to PFAS regulations in Europe.

Plastic waste mismanagement is a pertinent environmental concern among developing countries. The Philippines has a significant plastic waste concern as the country is among the top emitters of plastic wastes to the ocean. To manage plastic wastes, the government enacted policies. resulting to paper carrying bags becoming a prominent alternative. Switching from one carrying bag to another, however, requires clear assessment on the environmental implications as environmental trade-offs can occur. To provide the needed clarity, this study assessed the environmental implications of plastic and paper carrying bags through a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach. This study developed a model with the novelty of a) supply chain integration, b) augmented Environmental Design of Industrial Products (EDIP) impact assessment, and c) inventory categorization. From the augmented EDIP assessment, paper carrying bags had a single score impact of 0.73 whereas plastic carrying bags had a single score of 0.63. In terms of geographic emissions, this work revealed that paper carrying bags emit 50.28% of its emissions outside the country whereas plastic carrying bag emit 34.72%. Policy recommendations derived from the findings are provided in this paper. Recommendations include carbon capture and storage, green procurement, circular management, and waste management system improvement. Policy makers may infer from the recommendations in managing environmental issues from the use of carrying bags.

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]

This review explores circular economy principles in regard to ethanol production from paper-mill sludge. Environmental sustainability and renewability over fossil fuels make second generation ethanol an attractive energy source in a rapidly growing population and consumption world. Paper sludge (PS), a by-product of the pulp and paper (P&P) industry, can no longer be recycled for paper production and is mainly disposed of in landfills. Therefore, it poses a major environmental challenge. However, it has shown potential as a valuable raw material for ethanol production, along with other pulp and paper products, due to its abundant availability and high cellulosic content. This waste-to-energy (WtE) technology for ethanol production is proposed as an alternative, aligning with circular economy concepts to maximize resource efficiency and minimize waste. This review underlines the circular economy aspects of bioethanol production within paper mill sludge management systems. Circular economy principles applied to ethanol production from PS offer a promising avenue for sustainable biofuel development that not only addresses waste management challenges but also enhances the overall environmental performance of biofuel production. Furthermore, economic benefits are described, highlighting the potential for job creation and community development. [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]

This review explores circular economy principles in regard to ethanol production from paper-mill sludge. Environmental sustainability and renewability over fossil fuels make second generation ethanol an attractive energy source in a rapidly growing population and consumption world. Paper sludge (PS), a by-product of the pulp and paper (P&P) industry, can no longer be recycled for paper production and is mainly disposed of in landfills. Therefore, it poses a major environmental challenge. However, it has shown potential as a valuable raw material for ethanol production, along with other pulp and paper products, due to its abundant availability and high cellulosic content. This waste-to-energy (WtE) technology for ethanol production is proposed as an alternative, aligning with circular economy concepts to maximize resource efficiency and minimize waste. This review underlines the circular economy aspects of bioethanol production within paper mill sludge management systems. Circular economy principles applied to ethanol production from PS offer a promising avenue for sustainable biofuel development that not only addresses waste management challenges but also enhances the overall environmental performance of biofuel production. Furthermore, economic benefits are described, highlighting the potential for job creation and community development.

This research explores the potential of agricultural waste, specifically flax straw, as a sustainable raw material for eco-friendly packaging materials. This study investigates a three-stage delignification process involving nitric acid, alkaline treatment, and organosolvent solutions. This method effectively removes lignin from the straw, resulting in high-quality technical pulp with 67.7% α-cellulose and a significantly reduced ash content (8.5%). X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were employed to characterize the treated flax straw. XRD analysis revealed changes in the cellulose structure, while TGA indicated enhanced thermal stability compared to untreated straw. Microscopic analysis of the pulp fibers shows a parallel and aligned arrangement, suggesting a high fiber content and a strong paper lattice. The particle size distribution of the ground pulp, influenced by fiber size, has implications for the packing density and mechanical properties of the final product. This study demonstrates the potential of agricultural waste as a sustainable source for packaging materials, contributing to the circular economy and waste reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The valorization of wastes as an alternative or secondary raw material in various products and processes has been a solution for the implementation of sustainability, a safer environment, and the concept of circular economy in the efficient use and management of natural resources. To promote sustainability through a circular economy approach, this work tries to demonstrate the environmental gains that are obtained by bringing together, in an industrial symbiosis action, two large industrial sectors (the pulp and paper and the road pavement sectors) responsible for generating large amounts of wastes. A sustainability assessment, based on a life cycle and circular economy approach, is presented here, and discussed using a simple case study carried out on a real scale. Two wastes (dregs and grits) from the pulp and paper industry (PPI) were used to partially replace natural fine aggregates in the production of bituminous mixtures used on the top surface of road pavements. The impacts at a technical, environmental, economic, and social level were assessed and it was shown that this simple waste valorization action is not only positive for the final product from a technical point of view, but also for the environment, causing positive impacts on the different sustainability dimensions that were evaluated. [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.

Thin film transistors on paper are increasingly in demand for emerging applications, such as flexible displays and sensors for wearable and disposable devices, making paper a promising substrate for green electronics and the circular economy. ZnO self-assembled thin film transistors on a paper substrate, also using paper as a gate dielectric, were fabricated by pulsed electron beam deposition (PED) at room temperature. These self-assembled ZnO thin film transistor source–channel–drain structures were obtained in a single deposition process using 200 and 300 µm metal wires as obstacles in the path of the ablation plasma. These transistors exhibited a memory effect, with two distinct states, "on" and "off", and with a field-effect mobility of about 25 cm2/Vs in both states. For the "on" state, a threshold voltage (Vth on = −1.75 V) and subthreshold swing (S = 1.1 V/decade) were determined, while, in the "off" state, Vth off = +1.8 V and S = 1.34 V/decade were obtained. A 1.6 μA maximum drain current was obtained in the "off" state, and 11.5 μA was obtained in the "on" state of the transistor. Due to ZnO's non-toxicity, such self-assembled transistors are promising as components for flexible, disposable smart labels and other various green paper-based electronics. [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]

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]

The momentum of the Fourth Industrial Revolution is driving increased demand for certain specific metals. These include copper, silver, gold, and platinum group metals (PGMs), which have important applications in renewable energies, green hydrogen, and electronic products. However, the continuous extraction of these metals is leading to a rapid decline in their ore grades and, consequently, increasing the environmental impact of extraction. Hence, obtaining metals from secondary sources, such as waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), has become imperative for both environmental sustainability and ensuring their availability. To evaluate the sustainability of the process, this paper proposes using an exergy approach, which enables appropriate allocation among co-products, as well as the assessment of exergy losses and the use of non-renewable resources. As a case study, this paper analyzes the recycling process of waste printed circuit boards (PCBs) by disaggregating the exergy cost into renewable and non-renewable sources, employing different exergy-based cost allocation methods for the mentioned metals. It further considers the complete life cycle of metals using the Circular Thermoeconomics methodology. The results show that, when considering the entire life cycle, between 47% and 53% of the non-renewable exergy is destroyed during recycling. Therefore, delaying recycling as much as possible would be the most desirable option for minimizing the use of non-renewable resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent discussion paper Sufficiency as a "Strategy of the Enough": A Necessary Debate by the German Advisory Council on the Environment (SRU) aims to intensifY the debate on sufjiciencY, a central but neglected element of future-oriented policY. It deflnes sufbciencY as the need to limit the consumption and production of ecologically critical goods and services, mainly by the economically rich, as a basis for reducing distributional injustices and environmental impacts. Rather than proposing speciflc measures, the paper deliberately aims to explain the need for sufflciencY from various scientific disciplines, and invite discussion. Here, the authors of the discussion paper provide a short overview of the analyses and arguments in English. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To encourage proper waste management for electrical and electronic devices (e-waste), it is necessary to invest heavily in the development of recycling technologies. One way to improve the process is to automate separating the shredded parts of e-waste using a robot. This paper's literature review, utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, showcases potential robotic technologies for e-waste separation. However, the intricate design of these devices can pose significant challenges in their implementation. Various legal, organizational, and sociological obstacles have left Serbia's e-waste management practice underdeveloped, resulting in an unsatisfactory recycling rate. In this paper, we examined the possibility of using robots in the precise example of recycling refrigerators in a recycling center in Eastern Serbia, concluding that such a solution would have multiple positive effects, both on the employees and the working environment, on the operations of the recycling center itself, and on increasing the e-waste recycling rate in the country. [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]

This paper discusses the Digital Product Passport (DPP) as a key tool for achieving a circular economy. An architecture of the DPP is presented built upon the principles of data spaces and W3C Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs). By leveraging data spaces, the DPP enables secure and controlled data exchange among stakeholders, fostering transparency, traceability, and collaboration throughout the product's lifecycle. The use of decentralized identifiers ensures the uniqueness and verifiability of product-related information, facilitating seamless access and sharing of data. The DPP architecture offers a promising framework for realizing the circular economy by promoting resource efficiency, sustainable practices, and informed decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the development of a 3D digital model of end-of-service-life buildings to facilitate a step change in preparation of pre-demolition protocols that can eliminate problems of inadequate documentation and extensive time spent in preparing pre-demolition audits. The 3D digital model consists of the following four main components: (i) digitization of paper-based drawings and their conversion to CAD; (ii) automated generation of a 3D digital model from CAD; (iii) corrections to the 3D digital model to account for changes in the lifetime of a building; (iv) a sub-model for performing pre-demolition audit. This paper proposes the innovative approaches of incorporating a minimal amount of human intervention to overcome numerous difficulties in automated drawing analysis, application of augmented reality (AR) in corrections to the 3D digital model, and data compatibility for pre-demolition audit. These processes are demonstrated using one building as case study. Using the digital model, a pre-demolition audit can be prepared in minutes rather than the many days required in current practice without a digital model. The accurate quantification of the quantities and locations of different demolition waste materials and products in buildings to be demolished will enable a systematic and quantitative evaluation of potentials of material and product reuse and eliminate contamination of different demolition waste streams (which may contain hazardous waste), which is the main cause of environmental degradation and downcycling of demolition waste materials. [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]

Advanced recycling offers a unique opportunity for the circular economy, especially for mixed and contaminated plastics that are difficult to recycle mechanically. However, advanced recycling has barriers such as poor selectivity, contaminant sensitivity, and the need for expensive catalysts. Reported herein is a simple yet scalable methodology for converting mixed polyethylene (high-density and low-density polyethylene recycled polyethylene) into upcycled waxes with up to 94% yield. This high yield was possible by performing the reaction at a mild temperature and was enabled by using inexpensive and reusable table salt. Without table salt, in otherwise identical conditions, the plastic remained essentially undegraded. These upcycled waxes were used as prototypes for applications such as water- and oil-resistant paper, as well as rheology modifiers for plastics. Their performance is similar to that of commercial wax as well as rheology modifiers. A preliminary economic analysis shows that the upcycled waxes obtained by this table salt-catalyzed approach offer three times more revenue than those reported in the literature. This pioneering discovery opens the door for a circular economy of plastics in general and polyolefins in particular. [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]

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]

Sustainability in power electronics is a recent research topic. It takes place among current actions to grasp design choices that enable eco-design and circular economy in the domain. This paper shows the results and analysis of a literature review at the intersection of power electronics and sustainability without considering the reliability study of the power electronics systems. The first part explains the scope of the study. The second part shows a bibliometric analysis of the collected publications that underlines a pioneering position at the European level. The third part details the state-of-the-art and its analysis over four investigation topics which are: tools and methods, indicators, circularity and materials. This paper and the work behind are the results of collaboration at the French national level, as part of the workgroup CEPPS (Convertisseurs Electronique de Puissance Plus Soutenables—More Sustainable Power Electronics Converters) supported by the CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique—French National Centre for Scientific Research) research group SEEDS (Systèmes d'énergie électrique dans leurs dimensions sociétales—Societal dimensions of electrical energy systems). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the intersection of social entrepreneurship and the circular economy as a pathway to sustainable development. As global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality become increasingly urgent, innovative solutions are essential for fostering resilience and promoting equitable growth. Social entrepreneurship, defined by its dual mission of addressing social issues while achieving economic viability, offers a unique framework for integrating circular economy principles, which emphasize the restoration of ecosystems, resource efficiency, and waste reduction. The paper analyzes key concepts and theories underpinning both fields, highlighting how social enterprises can serve as catalysts for circular initiatives. By leveraging community engagement and collaborative models, social entrepreneurs can create value that not only supports economic growth but also enhances social equity and environmental sustainability. Case studies illustrate successful implementations of circular practices within social enterprises across various sectors, demonstrating their potential to transform local economies and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, the paper identifies barriers to the integration of social entrepreneurship and circular economy practices, including regulatory challenges, funding gaps, and the need for greater awareness and education. By addressing these challenges, policymakers and stakeholders can support the growth of social enterprises and facilitate the transition toward a circular economy. This synthesis of literature contributes to a deeper understanding of how social entrepreneurship can drive sustainable development and offers insights for future research, practice, and policy. Ultimately, this paper underscores the importance of fostering synergistic relationships between social entrepreneurship and the circular economy to achieve a more sustainable and equitable world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing amount of space debris in the low Earth orbit poses a danger to manned as well as uncrewed missions. Additionally, the new business model of providing internet from space is emerging among new space players, making low Earth orbit more crowded. These factors have encouraged the space community to focus on sustainability in space. Satellite manufacturers typically have the capability to perform complete life cycle analysis (LCA) on their own products based on the manufacturing data. However, there is a lack of a method for non-manufacturers such as environmentalists and the general public to predict the carbon footprint of satellite manufacturing using a subsystem-level mass budget. Hence, this paper presents a method to quantify environmental pollution caused by the production of satellite constellations. Starlink is taken as a case study in this paper, and mass budget is predicted based on space systems engineering budget estimation techniques, the parametric method, and Federal Communication Commission orbital data. With the budget table used as an input, space-specific life cycle assessment is performed based on European Space Agency's life cycle inventory database. Finally, the single score for Starlink constellation version 1 was found to be 76 kilo points. This signifies the annual environmental load. These results could be helpful in obtaining an overview of the environmental effects of the production phase of satellite constellations. Further, the results could act as a foundation for further research on implementing more circular approach practices on Earth as well as in space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling plays a crucial role in impacting national GDP and environmental sustainability. Given the complexities inherent in recycling processes, technology serves as a driving force for advancing and optimizing these practices. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, substantial initiatives are underway to foster a green environment and promote a circular economy. However, at the time of writing this paper, existing regulations mandate recycling primarily for business sectors, with no corresponding requirements for household waste collection or segregation. As a result, a significant portion of recyclable waste remains unprocessed. This paper expands upon earlier studies carried out in Jeddah, analyzing the obstacles and variables impacting sustainable recycling solutions, along with the essential conditions to boost household involvement in recycling. This study explores the potential of blockchain technology to improve household engagement by developing a blockchain-based loyalty program. The proposed system leverages the decentralized, immutable, and transparent features of blockchain technology to reward individuals with tokens for the recycling waste they produce, thereby facilitating token tracking across the recycling value chain and enhancing transparency in the circular economy. This article delves into the technical architecture of the loyalty program, aligning its domain model elements with blockchain design heuristics and integrating it with a mobile application that aims to boost recycling engagement by applying social economy principles. This innovative approach promises to overcome the current regulatory and motivational barriers, as well as promote sustainable recycling habits at the household level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is currently undergoing a phase of high-quality development, with increasing emphasis on the circular economy, energy conservation, and environmental protection by both the government and enterprises. This paper examines a secondary supply chain comprising manufacturers and retailers, focusing on three supply chain decision-making models: one where the manufacturer is the channel leader, one where the retailer is the channel leader, and one where both parties have equal power. The study investigates the impact of manufacturers misrepresenting their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) information and the challenges associated with recycling efforts on the optimal performance of the supply chain. The findings reveal that when manufacturers lead the supply chain, they do not misrepresent their private information. However, when retailers dominate, manufacturers tend to underreport their CSR levels and the difficulty of recycling efforts. In scenarios where manufacturers and retailers have equal power, manufacturers do not misreport the difficulty of recycling but do underreport their CSR levels. This misreporting benefits the manufacturers at the expense of retailers and overall supply chain profitability, while also discouraging the recycling of used products. Across all three power structures, the study shows that retailers' marketing efforts decrease as the misrepresentation of recycling difficulty increases, and increase as the misrepresentation of CSR levels increases. To mitigate the effects of manufacturers' misreporting under information asymmetry, the paper proposes revenue-sharing contracts and two-part pricing contracts to coordinate the closed-loop supply chain under different power structures. Both contracts are shown to achieve Pareto improvements within the supply chain. This research provides valuable insights for enterprises operating within closed-loop supply chains, highlighting the importance of enhancing communication and cooperation to bridge information gaps and ensuring the coordina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modules (or parts) of a car are a complex functional material combination used to deliver a specified task for a car. Recovering all materials, energy, etc., into high-grade materials at their end of life (EoL) is impossible. This is dictated by the second law of thermodynamics (2LT) and thence economics. Thus, recyclability cannot be conducted with simplistic mass-based approaches void of thermodynamic considerations. We apply, in this paper, a process simulation model to estimate the true recyclability of various SEAT (Volkswagen Group) car parts within the EU H2020 TREASURE project. This simulation model is developed with 190 reactors and over 310 feed components with over 1000 reaction species in the 880 streams of the flowsheet. The uniqueness of the work in this paper is to apply the full material declaration (FMD) and bill of materials (BOM) of all 310 materials in the parts as a feed to the process simulation model to show the parts' true recyclability. We classified all parts into categories, i.e., copper-rich, steel-rich and plastic-rich, to maximally recover metals at the desired material quality, as well as energy. Recyclability is understood to create high-grade products that can be applied with the same functional quality in these parts. In addition, disassembly strategies and related possible redesign show how much recyclability can be improved. Process simulation permits the creation of alloys, phases, materials, etc., at a desired quality. The strength of the simulation permits any feed from any End-of-Life part to be analyzed, as long as the FMD and BOM are available. This is analogous to any mineral and metallurgical engineering process simulation for which the full mineralogy must be available to analyze and/or design flowsheets. This paper delivers a wealth of data for various parts as well as the ultimate recovery of materials, elements, and energy. The results show clearly that there is no one single recycling rate for elements, materials, and alloys. It is in fact a function of the complexity and material combinations within the parts. The fact that we use a thermochemical-based process simulator with full compositional detail for the considered parts means full energy balances as well as exergy dissipation can be evaluated. This means that we can also evaluate which parts, due complex mixtures of plastics, are best processed for energy recovery or are best for material and metal recovery, with thermochemistry, reactor technology and integrated flowsheets being the basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]