Reviews in Environmental Science and Biotechnology, cilt.24, sa.3, ss.805-829, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
Human activities are increasingly contributing to global climate change through the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Among various sectors, waste management plays a significant role, with emissions largely arising from the disposal of biodegradable materials in landfills. In cases where waste generation is unavoidable, it becomes essential to focus on sustainable recovery strategies that prioritize both material and energy valorization. A wide range of biodegradable wastes such as food residues, agricultural by-products, green waste, sewage sludge, and manure, can be redirected from landfills to low-emission treatment pathways. Traditional methods like composting and anaerobic digestion offer environmental benefits by reducing emissions and recovering valuable resources. However, emerging biorefinery-based technologies extend these benefits by enabling the conversion of waste into high-value bioproducts, including organic acids, biopolymers, and microbial proteins, while supporting low-carbon or even carbon-negative outcomes. These innovative approaches not only contribute to climate mitigation but also reinforce circular economy principles by reducing reliance on fossil-based inputs. Transitioning from landfill disposal to integrated, low-emission waste management systems is therefore essential for advancing both environmental sustainability and climate resilience.