Second generation biorefining in Ecuador: Circular bioeconomy, zero waste technology, environment and sustainable development: The nexus

Abstract

The projection of world population growth with concurrent generation of large volumes of agro-industrial waste that negatively affect the environment is of great concern. Therefore, this review article describes the nexus between concepts of Circular Bioeconomy, Zero Waste Technology, Sustainable Development, Biorefineries, and alternatives and research efforts to generate less environmental impact. A brief analysis of the Ecuadorian industry and exports is described, emphasizing the fact that, to improve the Ecuadorian trade balance, it is necessary to increase industrial competitiveness. It is important to have emerging technologies and innovation in order to promote the replacement of fossil-derived raw materials with renewable raw materials and develop more environmentally friendly processes and industries. This paper analyses the state of biomass research and its transformation in Ecuador, together with current pretreatment research on biomass to obtain bioproducts and biofuels in a biorefinery that promotes clean production for the extraction of phytochemicals using green solvents, such as deep eutectic solvents; and technologies to recover high-value added materials with enhanced properties. In conclusion, the need to develop technologies and markets to commercialize high value-added products coming from biorefineries is highlighted, as this will increase the income both in rural and urban areas and will strengthen the productivity and profitability of the Ecuadorian agroindustry. Our goal through this analysis is to improve Ecuador's trade balance while also contributing to the circular bioeconomy that promotes sustainable development.

Keywords

• Biorefinery
• Circular bioeconomy
• Agro-industrial by-products
• High-added-value products
• Sustainable development