Bioeconomy and circular economy: transforming agricultural waste into opportunities

Abstract

This paper entitled “Bioeconomy and circular economy: transforming agricultural waste into opportunities” provides an overview of the transformation in the relationship between agricultural production systems and natural resources in Colombia, addressing aspects related to lignocellulosic residues from sugarcane, coffee, cocoa and oil palm.

First, the author emphasizes the importance of bioeconomy and circular economy as complementary paradigms, as a basis for creating value through the transformation of waste into biofuels, bioplastics and bioactive compounds.

One of the central aspects of the work is the chemical characterization of agricultural waste streams and their conversion potential through thermochemical, biochemical and chemical routes, demonstrating that Colombia generates millions of tons of waste annually with high valorization potential. This enables applications in the production of bioethanol, organic acids, biogas and biofertilizers.

Additionally, examples are presented illustrating the impact of phenolic compounds from coffee and cocoa, such as their applications in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries.

Finally, the study discusses challenges related to technological barriers and financing mechanisms, including the need for cross-sector integration, and highlights the importance of developing integrated rural biorefineries to promote the competitiveness and decarbonization of the Colombian agricultural sector.