S. B. Jilani, Daniel G. Olson

Microbial Cell Factories • 2023

Lignocellulosic biomass represents a carbon neutral cheap and versatile source of carbon which can be converted to biofuels. A pretreatment step is frequently used to make the lignocellulosic carbon bioavailable for microbial metabolism. Dilute acid pretreatment at high temperature and pressure is commonly utilized to efficiently solubilize the pentose fraction by hydrolyzing the hemicellulose fibers and the process results in formation of furans—furfural and 5-hydroxymethyl furfural—and other inhibitors which are detrimental to metabolism. The presence of inhibitors in the medium reduce productivity of microbial biocatalysts and result in increased production costs. Furfural is the key furan inhibitor which acts synergistically along with other inhibitors present in the hydrolysate. In this review, the mode of furfural toxicity on microbial metabolism and metabolic strategies to increase tolerance is discussed. Shared cellular targets between furfural and acetic acid are compared followed by discussing further strategies to engineer tolerance. Finally, the possibility to use furfural as a model inhibitor of dilute acid pretreated lignocellulosic hydrolysate is discussed. The furfural tolerant strains will harbor an efficient lignocellulosic carbon to pyruvate conversion mechanism in presence of stressors in the medium. The pyruvate can be channeled to any metabolite of interest by appropriate modulation of downstream pathway of interest. The aim of this review is to emphasize the use of hydrolysate as a carbon source for bioproduction of biofuels and other compounds of industrial importance.

H. Seelajaroen, M. Haberbauer, Christine Hemmelmair et al.

ChemBioChem • 2019

Microbial electrosynthetic cells containing Methylobacterium extorquens were studied for the reduction of CO2 to formate by direct electron injection and redox mediator‐assisted approaches, with CO2 as the sole carbon source. The formation of a biofilm on a carbon felt (CF) electrode was achieved while applying a constant potential of −0.75 V versus Ag/AgCl under CO2‐saturated conditions. During the biofilm growth period, continuous H2 evolution was observed. The long‐term performance for CO2 reduction of the biofilm with and without neutral red as a redox mediator was studied by an applied potential of −0.75 V versus Ag/AgCl. The neutral red was introduced into the systems in two different ways: homogeneous (dissolved in solution) and heterogeneous (electropolymerized onto the working electrode). The heterogeneous approach was investigated in the microbial system, for the first time, where the CF working electrode was coated with poly(neutral red) by the oxidative electropolymerization thereof. The formation of poly(neutral red) was characterized by spectroscopic techniques. During long‐term electrolysis up to 17 weeks, the formation of formate was observed continuously with an average Faradaic efficiency of 4 %. With the contribution of neutral red, higher formate accumulation was observed. Moreover, the microbial electrosynthetic cell was characterized by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to obtain more information on the CO2 reduction mechanism.

A. Mentges, C. Feenders, C. Deutsch et al.

Scientific Reports • 2019

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) is the main energy source for marine heterotrophic microorganisms, but a small fraction of DOC resists microbial degradation and accumulates in the ocean. The reason behind this recalcitrance is unknown. We test whether the long-term stability of DOC requires the existence of structurally refractory molecules, using a mechanistic model comprising a diverse network of microbe-substrate interactions. Model experiments reproduce three salient observations, even when all DOC compounds are equally degradable: (i) >15% of an initial DOC pulse resists degradation, but is consumed by microbes if concentrated, (ii) the modelled deep-sea DOC reaches stable concentrations of 30–40 mmolC/m3, and (iii) the mean age of deep-sea DOC is several times the age of deep water with a wide range from <100 to >10,000 years. We conclude that while structurally-recalcitrant molecules exist, they are not required in the model to explain either the amount or longevity of DOC.

Y. Asensio, C. Fernández-Marchante, J. Villaseñor et al.

Journal of Chemical Technology &amp; Biotechnology • 2018

BACKGROUND This work compares the performance of three stacked Microbial Fuel Cells constructed with different number of single-MFC (MFC1 with two stacked-MFCs, MFC2 with ten stacked-MFCs and MFC3 with twenty stacked-MFCs), and operated under the same conditions for one month. RESULTS According to results, algae suspensions can be used as fuel of MFC-stacks, although current efficiencies obtained are low. In comparing the effect of number of cells stacked on the performance of the stacks, it was found that the higher the number of cells stacked, the higher was the energy harvested from algae. However, because of the very efficient consumption of COD in the first MFC of the stacks (not only by electrogenic but also by non-electrogenic microorganisms) and the sequential circulation of the fuel through the different cells of the stack, in all cases the systems were run out of fuel and this was reflected in a lower production of electricity, as compared to that expected taking into account the number of cells stacked. Results obtained from the polarization curves and the cathodic oxygen consumption also support this explanation. CONCLUSIONS Results demonstrate that algal biomass is a suitable fuel for energy generation using MFC technology and provides microorganisms not only of a carbon source but also with the required nutrients. However, the low coulombic efficiencies obtained in the three stacks indicate that feeding algae to MFC also promotes the formation of an important amount of non-electrogenic microorganisms that compete successfully with bioelectrogenic microorganisms for the substrate provided.

Haoming Ning, Zhi Zhang, C. Shi et al.

RSC Advances • 2022

In this study, Fe/N codoped porous graphitic carbon derived from macadamia shells was prepared at different temperatures as cathodic catalysts for microbial fuel cells (MFCs), with K2FeO4 as a bifunctional catalyst for porosity and graphitization. The catalyst prepared at 750 °C (referred to as MSAC-750) showed a large specific surface area (1670.3 m2 g−1), graphite structure, and high pyridine-N and Fe-NX contents. Through the electrochemical workstation test, MSAC-750 shows excellent oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity, with an onset potential of 0.172 V and a half-wave potential of −0.028 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) in a neutral medium, and the ORR electron transfer number is 3.89. When applied to the MFCs as cathodic catalysts, a higher maximum power density and voltage of 378.68 mW m−2 and 0.425 V were achieved with the MSAC-750 catalyst and is superior to that of the Pt/C catalyst (300.85 mW m−2 and 0.402 V). In this case, a promising method is hereby established for the preparation of an excellent electrochemical catalyst for microbial fuel cells using inexpensive and easily available macadamia shells.

A. Malik, J. Puissant, Kate M. Buckeridge et al.

Nature Communications • 2018

Soil microorganisms act as gatekeepers for soil–atmosphere carbon exchange by balancing the accumulation and release of soil organic matter. However, poor understanding of the mechanisms responsible hinders the development of effective land management strategies to enhance soil carbon storage. Here we empirically test the link between microbial ecophysiological traits and topsoil carbon content across geographically distributed soils and land use contrasts. We discovered distinct pH controls on microbial mechanisms of carbon accumulation. Land use intensification in low-pH soils that increased the pH above a threshold (~6.2) leads to carbon loss through increased decomposition, following alleviation of acid retardation of microbial growth. However, loss of carbon with intensification in near-neutral pH soils was linked to decreased microbial biomass and reduced growth efficiency that was, in turn, related to trade-offs with stress alleviation and resource acquisition. Thus, less-intensive management practices in near-neutral pH soils have more potential for carbon storage through increased microbial growth efficiency, whereas in acidic soils, microbial growth is a bigger constraint on decomposition rates. Land use intensification could modify microbial activity and thus ecosystem function. Here, Malik et al. sample microbes and carbon-related functions across a land use gradient, demonstrating that microbial biomass and carbon use efficiency are reduced in human-impacted near-neutral pH soils.

H. Seelajaroen, S. Spiess, M. Haberbauer et al.

Sustainable Energy &amp; Fuels • 2020

Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) consisting of a bioanode and biocathode offer a promising solution for wastewater treatment. These systems can degrade organic substances at the bioanode while converting carbon dioxide (CO2), a major greenhouse gas, to a value-added fuel, methane (CH4) at the biocathode. The bioelectrodes were inoculated with a mixed culture under anaerobic conditions. By applying a constant potential of 0.40 V vs. Ag/AgCl (3 M NaCl), the long-term performance of MECs has been studied by monitoring the removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) in the anolyte which contained synthetic wastewater and CH4 generation in the cathode chamber. To investigate the effect of electrode modification, poly(neutral red) and chitosan modified carbon felt electrodes were prepared, and applied in MECs. The results revealed that MECs with modified electrodes showed remarkably enhanced overall performance. The average COD removal efficiency, faradaic efficiency towards CO2 reduction to CH4 and CH4 production yield of modified MECs were up to 67%, 55% and 0.14 LCH4/gCOD, respectively.

Zhihui Shi, Zhaoyu Xu, Weihe Rong et al.

Nature Communications • 2025

Starch is a primary food ingredient and industrial feedstock. Low-carbon microbial manufacturing offers a carbon-neutral/negative arable land-independent strategy for starch production. Here, we reconfigure the oleaginous yeast as a starch-rich micro-grain producer by rewiring the starch biosynthesis and gluconeogenesis pathways and regulating cell morphology. With the CO2 electro-synthesized acetate as the substrate, the strain accumulates starch 47.18% of dry cell weight. The optimized system renders spatial-temporal starch productivity (243.7 g/m2/d) approximately 50-fold higher than crop cultivation and volumetric productivity (160.83 mg/L/h) over other microbial systems by an order of magnitude. We demonstrate tunable starch composition and starch-protein ratios via strain and process engineering. The engineered artificial strains adopt a cellular resources reallocation strategy to ensure high-level starch production in micro-grain and could facilitate a highly efficient straw/cellulose-to-starch conversion. This work elucidates starch biosynthesis machinery and establishes a superior-to-nature platform for customizable starch synthesis, advancing low-carbon nutritional manufacturing.

Hanaa M. Sabaa, K. El-Khatib, M. El-kady et al.

Journal of Solid State Electrochemistry • 2022

For more sustainability and marketing of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) in wastewater treatment, the sluggish kinetics of cathode oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and platinum scarcity (with its high cost) should be swept away. So, this work aimed to synthesize metal ferrite (MFe2O4; M = Mn, Cu, and Ni) -based activated carbon composites as inexpensive ORR cathode catalysts. The composites were synthesized using a facile modified co-precipitation approach with low-thermal treatment and labeled as MnFe2O4/AC, CuFe2O4/AC, and NiFe2O4/AC. The as-synthesized catalysts are physicochemically characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared microscopy (FTIR), Barrett-Joyner-Halenda (BJH), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and electron spin resonance (ESR). The electrochemical catalytic performance toward ORR was studied in a phosphate buffer solution (PBS) at neutral media via cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV). MnFe2O4/AC has the highest onset potential (Eonset) value of − 0.223 V compared to CuFe2O4/AC (− 0.280 V) and NiFe2O4/AC (− 0.270 V). MnFe2O4/AC also has the highest kinetic current density (jK) and lowest Tafel slope (− 5 mA cm−2 and − 330 mV dec−1) compared to CuFe2O4/AC (− 3.05 mA cm−2 and − 577 mV dec−1) and NiFe2O4/AC (− 2.67 mA cm−2 and − 414 mV dec−1). The ORR catalyzed by MnFe2O4/AC at pH = 7 proceeds via a 4e− -kinetic pathway. The ESR is in good agreement with the electrochemical analysis due to the highest ∆Hppvalue for MnFe2O4/AC compared to CuFe2O4/AC and NiFe2O4/AC. Thus, MnFe2O4/AC is suggested as a promising alternative to Pt- electrocatalyst cathode for MFCs at neutral conditions.

Bi-Lin Lai, Hui Wei, Zirong Luo et al.

SSRN Electronic Journal • 2022

The development of bifunctional catalysts is an effective way to simultaneously address the slow kinetics of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on the cathode and biofilm contamination in the microbial fuel cells (MFC). Cu-N/C@Cu composites were synthesized as bifunctional cathode catalysts for MFC by doping, adsorption, and two calcinations by using Cu-ZIF-8 as the precursor. The higher Cu-Nx content confers excellent ORR catalytic activity to the optimized Cu-N/C@Cu-2 catalyst. The half-wave potential for Cu-N/C@Cu-2 in a neutral solution is 0.67 V vs. RHE, which is close to that of commercial 20 % Pt/C (0.70 V vs. RHE). The maximum power density of the MFCs assembled with Cu-N/C@Cu-2 reached 581 ± 13 mW m-2, which is even better than that using Pt/C (499 ± 13 mW m-2). Moreover, the results of antimicrobial activity and biomass test show that the higher Cu content made Cu-N/C@Cu-2 effective against the contamination of cathode biofilm. And the 16 s rDNA results find that the community structure of the biofilm is favorable for the power production and purification of MFC. This work shows that copper-based materials can be used as potential bifunctional catalysts to promote MFC applications in wastewater treatment.

Orpheus M. Butler, S. Manzoni, C. Warren

The ISME Journal • 2023

Many microorganisms synthesise carbon (C)-rich compounds under resource deprivation. Such compounds likely serve as intracellular C-storage pools that sustain the activities of microorganisms growing on stoichiometrically imbalanced substrates, making them potentially vital to the function of ecosystems on infertile soils. We examined the dynamics and drivers of three putative C-storage compounds (neutral lipid fatty acids [NLFAs], polyhydroxybutyrate [PHB], and trehalose) across a natural gradient of soil fertility in eastern Australia. Together, NLFAs, PHB, and trehalose corresponded to 8.5–40% of microbial C and 0.06–0.6% of soil organic C. When scaled to “structural” microbial biomass (indexed by polar lipid fatty acids; PLFAs), NLFA and PHB allocation was 2–3-times greater in infertile soils derived from ironstone and sandstone than in comparatively fertile basalt- and shale-derived soils. PHB allocation was positively correlated with belowground biological phosphorus (P)-demand, while NLFA allocation was positively correlated with fungal PLFA : bacterial PLFA ratios. A complementary incubation revealed positive responses of respiration, storage, and fungal PLFAs to glucose, while bacterial PLFAs responded positively to PO_4^3-. By comparing these results to a model of microbial C-allocation, we reason that NLFA primarily served the “reserve” storage mode for C-limited taxa (i.e., fungi), while the variable portion of PHB likely served as “surplus” C-storage for P-limited bacteria. Thus, our findings reveal a convergence of community-level processes (i.e., changes in taxonomic composition that underpin reserve-mode storage dynamics) and intracellular mechanisms (e.g., physiological plasticity of surplus-mode storage) that drives strong, predictable community-level microbial C-storage dynamics across gradients of soil fertility and substrate stoichiometry.

Yang Lei, Danlian Huang, Wei Zhou et al.

Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology • 2023

Abstract Using carbon-based materials (CBMs) to facilitate phytoremediation shows great promise for simultaneously enhancing the restoration efficiency of contaminated soil and reducing carbon dioxide in the context of global warming, which is still in the exploring and attempting phase. In addition to direct degradation or alteration of pollutant bioavailability, CBMs can enhance phytoremediation by alleviating plant nutrient deprivation and oxidative stress, as well as by modulating soil microbial communities and root secretions. Photosynthetic carbon fixation predominantly affects both phytoremediation efficiency and carbon cycle turnover in terrestrial ecosystems. In this regard, CBMs have extremely positive properties in facilitating plant carbon capture, with intrinsic mechanisms including (1) promoting photosynthetic pigment synthesis and acting as artificial built-in antennae to improve photon capture efficiency, (2) accelerating the photosynthetic electron transport rate in photosystems, (3) improving the Calvin cycle, and (4) maintaining the structural integrity of chloroplasts. Besides, as an ultra-stable type of CBM derived from waste biomass, biochar can preserve the native biomass carbon in the soil environment for decades and attenuate the rhizosphere priming effect by influencing the structure of rhizosphere soil aggregates and microbial communities, thus retarding the native soil organic carbon efflux. This review critically elaborates on the mechanisms by which CBMs assist in improving the efficiency of phytoremediation and their positive effects on the plant-root soil carbon balance. Additionally, a simple full-life cycle analysis encompassing cost analysis as well as ecological, economic, and social benefits is concluded to evaluate the feasibility and sustainability of CBMs-phytoremediation systems. Graphical Abstract

V. K. Magotra, Dong-jin Lee, Dong-Il Kim et al.

Frontiers in Microbiology • 2023

Microbial fuel cells (CS-UFC) utilize waste resources containing biodegradable materials that play an essential role in green energy. MFC technology generates “carbon-neutral” bioelectricity and involves a multidisciplinary approach to microbiology. MFCs will play an important role in the harvesting of “green electricity.” In this study, a single-chamber urea fuel cell is fabricated that uses these different wastewaters as fuel to generate power. Soil has been used to generate electrical power in microbial fuel cells and exhibited several potential applications to optimize the device; the urea fuel concentration is varied from 0.1 to 0.5 g/mL in a single-chamber compost soil urea fuel cell (CS-UFC). The proposed CS-UFC has a high power density and is suitable for cleaning chemical waste, such as urea, as it generates power by consuming urea-rich waste as fuel. The CS-UFC generates 12 times higher power than conventional fuel cells and exhibits size-dependent behavior. The power generation increases with a shift from the coin cell toward the bulk size. The power density of the CS-UFC is 55.26 mW/m2. This result confirmed that urea fuel significantly affects the power generation of single-chamber CS-UFC. This study aimed to reveal the effect of soil properties on the generated electric power from soil processes using waste, such as urea, urine, and industrial-rich wastewater as fuel. The proposed system is suitable for cleaning chemical waste; moreover, the proposed CS-UFC is a novel, sustainable, cheap, and eco-friendly design system for soil-based bulk-type design for large-scale urea fuel cell applications.

Niaz Mahmud, Kayode J Taiwo, Joseph G. Usack

Annual Review of Food Science and Technology • 2024

Harnessing CO2 and CO2-derived C1-C2 compounds for microbial food production can mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and boost sustainability within the food sector. These innovative technologies support carbon neutrality by generating nutrient-rich edible microbial biomass and biocompounds using autotrophic and heterotrophic microbes. However, qualifying microbial food viability and future impacts in the food sector remains challenging due to their diversity, technical complexity, socioeconomic forces, and incipient markets. This review provides an overview of microbial food systems and then delves into the technical interplay among feedstocks, microbes, carbon fixation platforms, bioreactor operations, and downstream processes. The review further explores developing markets for microbial food products, the industrial landscape, economic drivers, and emerging trends in next-generation food products. The analysis suggests a transformative shift in the food industry is underway, yet significant challenges persist, such as securing cost-effective feedstocks, improving downstream processing efficiency, and gaining consumer acceptance. These challenges require innovative solutions and collaborative efforts to ensure the future commercial success of microbial foods-doing so will create myriad opportunities to transform and decarbonize our food system.

Yingying Du, Qiao Yang, Wangting Lu et al.

Advanced Functional Materials • 2023

Single metal atom isolated in nitrogen‐doped carbon materials (MNC) are effective electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which produces H2O2 or H2O via 2‐electron or 4‐electron process. However, most of MNC catalysts can only present high selectivity for one product, and the selectivity is usually regulated by complicated structure design. Herein, a carbon black‐supported CoNC catalyst (CB@CoNC) is synthesized. Tunable 2‐electron/4‐electron behavior is realized on CB@Co‐N‐C by utilizing its H2O2 yield dependence on electrolyte pH and catalyst loading. In acidic media with low catalyst loading, CB@CoNC presents excellent mass activity and high selectivity for H2O2 production. In flow cell with gas diffusion electrode, a H2O2 production rate of 5.04 mol h−1 g−1 is achieved by CB@CoNC on electrolyte circulation mode, and a long‐term H2O2 production of 200 h is demonstrated on electrolyte non‐circulation mode. Meanwhile, CB@CoNC exhibits a dominant 4‐electron ORR pathway with high activity and durability in pH neutral media with high catalyst loading. The microbial fuel cell using CB@CoNC as the cathode catalyst shows a peak power density close to that of benchmark Pt/C catalyst.

Jan Mertens, Ronnie Belmans, Michael Webber

C • 2020

This paper argues that electrification and gasification go hand in hand and are crucial on our pathway to a carbon-neutral energy transition. Hydrogen made from renewable electricity will be crucial on this path but is not sufficient, mainly due to its challenges related to its transport and storage. Thus, other ‘molecules’ will be needed on the pathway to a carbon-neutral energy transition. What at first sight seems a contradiction, this paper argues that carbon (C) will be an important and required chemical element in many of these molecules to achieve our carbon neutrality goal. Therefore, on top of the “Hydrogen Economy” we should work also towards a “Synthetic Hydrocarbon Economy”, implying the needs for lots of carbon as a carrier for hydrogen and embedded in products as a form of sequestration. It is crucial that this carbon is taken from the biosphere or recycled from biomass/biogas and not from fossil resources. Due to efficiency losses in capturing and converting atmospheric CO2, the production of renewable molecules will increase the overall demand for renewable energy drastically.

H. Dang, N. Jiao

• 2014

Abstract. Although respiration consumes fixed carbon and produce CO2, it provides energy for essential biological processes of an ecosystem, including the microbial carbon pump (MCP). In MCP-driving biotransformation of labile DOC to recalcitrant DOC (RDOC), microbial respiration provides the metabolic energy for environmental organic substrate sensing, cellular enzyme syntheses and catalytic processes such as uptake, secretion, modification, fixation and storage of carbon compounds. The MCP efficiency of a heterotrophic microorganism is thus related to its energy production efficiency and hence to its respiration efficiency. Anaerobically respiring microbes usually have lower energy production efficiency and lower energy-dependent carbon transformation efficiency, and consequently lower MCP efficiency at per cell level. This effect is masked by the phenomena that anoxic environments often store more organic matter. Here we point out that organic carbon preservation and RDOC production is different in mechanisms, and anaerobically respiring ecosystems could also have lower MCP ecological efficiency. Typical cases can be found in large river estuarine ecosystems. Due to strong terrigenous input of nutrients and organic matter, estuarine ecosystems usually experience intense heterotrophic respiration processes that rapidly consume dissolved oxygen, potentially producing hypoxic and anoxic zones in the water column. The lowered availability of dissolved oxygen and the excessive supply of nutrients such as nitrate from river input prompt enhanced anaerobic respiration processes. Thus, some nutrients may be consumed by anaerobically respiring heterotrophic microorganisms, instead of being utilized by phytoplankton for carbon fixation and primary production. In this situation, the ecological functioning of the estuarine ecosystem is altered and the ecological efficiency is lowered, as less carbon is fixed and less energy is produced. Ultimately this would have negatively impacts on the ecological functioning and efficiency of the MCP which depends on both organic carbon and energy supply.

Chongchong Zhao, Bin Wu, Weiguang Hao et al.

Agronomy • 2024

Recycled manure solids (RMSs) are widely utilised as beddings due to their economic and environmentally friendly features. Internal change in RMSs plays a vital role in the stable operation and management of beddings. However, the internal microenvironment of various manure beddings has not been fully reported. Therefore, we evaluated the physicochemical properties, internal gases and changes in the microbial community of the in situ fermentation beds, which were prefermented by cow manure with sawdust (FSD), straw (FST) and sawdust–straw mixture (FM), at a farm in Jiangsu, China, from June to September 2022. The results indicated that the FSD and FM beds were more capable of degrading organic matter (OM), accumulating total nitrogen and processing a more stable pH environment. FSD bed promoted the conversion of nitrate–nitrogen and ammonium–nitrogen (NH4+-N). Different treatments and times had significant effects on bacterial and fungal communities. FSD enriched Chloroflexi, and FST enriched Actinobacteriota in the early stage, while FM enriched Proteobacteria in the late stage. Bacterial communities were more sensitive to NH4+-N and OM, while fungal communities were more sensitive to temperature and pH. FSD had potential advantages concerning N conversion and C emission reduction. The results of the study revealed the microenvironmental dynamics during bedding use, providing a theoretical basis for the use of a compost bedding system for managing recycled dairy manure.

Asif Raihan

Carbon Research • 2023

Abstract Uruguay has set a target of becoming carbon neutral by the year 2030, and this study looks into the role that economic progress, renewable energy utilization, technological innovations, and forest extent could play in reaching the goal. The Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) technique was applied to examine time series data from 1990 to 2021. According to the outcomes of the DOLS estimation, a one-percentage-point boost in economic growth is associated with a 1.16% increase in CO 2 emissions. However, increasing the use of renewable energy by 1% is related to a reduction in CO 2 emissions of 0.73 percent over the long run, as indicated by the coefficient of renewable energy being negative and statistically significant. The calculated long-run coefficient of technological innovations is negative and statistically significant, suggesting that a 1% increase in technological innovation causes a 0.11% cut in CO 2 emissions. The long-run coefficient of forest area is notably negative and significant, which means that expanding forest area by 1% lessens CO 2 emissions by 0.56%. The empirical results show that as Uruguay's economy grows, so do its CO 2 emissions, but the country may get closer to its goal of carbon neutrality through the growing use of renewable energy, technological innovation, and sustainable forest management. The robustness of the outcomes was verified by utilizing the fully modified least squares (FMOLS) and canonical cointegrating regression (CCR) techniques. In order for Uruguay to reach its goal of carbon neutrality by 2030, this article offers policy ideas centered on a low-carbon economy, promoting renewable energy utilization, financing of technological innovations, and sustainable forest management. Graphical Abstract

Christine Ehlig-Economides, Neil de Guzman

SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition • 2020

Abstract In efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel combustion, public funding for wind and solar alternative energy resources has enabled their evolution toward cost competitiveness with coal and natural gas options for electric power generation. To address combustion emissions from the transportation sector, the European Commission has committed to electrifying transportation, but this solution will not address transportation by air or by sea. Nor does it address continued production of petrochemical products that only require a small fraction of produced hydrocarbons. This study investigates the cost competitiveness of an alternative strategy to market crude oil priced to cover the cost of removing an amount of carbon dioxide equal to that produced through combustion of transportation fuels to be refined from it. This strategy enables continued use of fossil fuel for all transportation modes. The cost comparison considers life cycle carbon dioxide emissions and does not address other externalities related to materials or batteries employed in renewable energy options. Rather, we report known costs for carbon capture, use, and storage (CCUS) with consideration of both nature and technology based carbon capture with focus mainly on geologic storage and utilization. Because road and rail transportation can be electrified, of particular interest is the levelized cost comparison between carbon neutral fuel and electrified transportation, the latter including infrastructure implementation costs. The resulting cost comparison informs investment decisions and justifies marketing fossil fuels on a carbon neutral basis.

Paul Magee

TEXT • 2023

The author was co-convener of the Australian Capital Territory’s first government-certified, carbon-neutral conference, Out of the Ordinary: On Poetry and the World, 5–7 December 2022. This paper centres upon a case study of that conference, intended to serve as a model for future such events. Bookending that case study are two discussions. The first addresses recent scholarship on the internationalisation of the university sector and the conflict it poses to concurrent policy drives towards environmentally sustainable operations. The literature on sustainable conferencing reveals the extent of that conflict, but also contains many practical measures for staging responsible events that involve genuine emissions reductions. Some of those measures feature within the poetry conference case study: vegetarian catering, eradication of printed materials, free registration for Indigenous delegates, compulsory travel offsetting, deliberate regionalisation. A final section considers problems with the very idea of carbon neutrality – as a concept based in “net” accounting practices that equate measures intended to affect the removal of emissions with no emissions – in the interest of driving further change in our conferencing practices.

Dorji Yangka, Vanessa Rauland, Peter Newman

Sustainable Earth Reviews • 2023

Abstract Background Bhutan has pledged to remain carbon neutral (CN) in perpetuity. Whether they can sustain this is questionable due to the country’s increasing economic growth (GDP) and commitment to gross national happiness (GNH) outcomes, both of which can lead to a rise in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The nexus between GHG, GNH and GDP is the essence of the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals global project. Results Through scenario modelling using the Long-range Energy Alternative Planning (LEAP) model, the study finds that the carbon neutral declaration will derail between 2037 and 2050 without mitigation measures. By putting in place mitigation measures especially in the industry and transport sectors, CN can be retained even under high growth pressure, which may cost just 2% of GDP. CN can be easily retained under low economic growth, but this could undermine GNH. High growth will require immediate interventions to enable electrification of industry and transport. Conclusions The options to remain CN will require Bhutan to adopt more efficient technologies and electrify industry and transport under both low and high growth scenarios. The additional cost to the Bhutanese economy is feasible through low and high growth opportunities. The options are similar to those confronting emerging nations struggling with issues of climate commitments under economic growth pressures. All will need to adapt their specific economic contexts to achieve the simultaneous objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals whilst addressing the net zero Paris agenda. Bhutan shows it is possible.

, I. Kupriyanchyk

Zemleustrìj, kadastr ì monìtorìng zemelʹ • 2021

The article deals with the relationship between economic development and environmental security.With regard to agricultural land use, ensuring environmental security involves optimizing the organization of land use and land use process on the basis of environmental restrictions on environmental pollution and agricultural products. First of all, according to environmental constraints, the possibilities of exploitation of natural resources and taking into account the peculiarities of agroecosystems (natural and climatic conditions, water resources, terrain, land and soil structure, land erosion, etc.) are determined to address food security. On their basis, ecologically balanced operation of agroecosystems is carried out through the formation of ecologically safe land uses, which provide for the optimization of economic activity of agricultural producers, taking into account environmental constraints. The article clarifies the essence and significance of ecologically safe agricultural land use in agriculture, proposes an approach to defining the essence of ecologically safe agricultural land use as a process of land use in the agricultural sector of the economy, which prevents the danger to human health, degradation of land resources, as well as their resilience to environmental threats and risks. The role of ecologically safe agrarian land use in ensuring sustainable development of rural areas and directions of influence of interaction of ecological and economic components of safety of agrarian land use are defined.

Damien Demoor

Offshore Technology Conference • 2016

The exploitation of marine resources has enjoyed renewed interest with a completely new sector, that of the Deep Sea Mining of mineral resources in the seabed, that is now gaining momentum. Nevertheless, the significant environmental constraints represent a challenge for initiating these new activities, whether this is in terms of the knowledge of the concerned ecosystems or in terms of monitoring and minimizing the impact of these new activities. In the meantime, these prerequisites are becoming increasingly applicable to the Oil and Gas sector, at least in areas adjacent to countries that are sensitive to sustainable development, with increasingly prevalent regulations. This paper presents 2 technologies that aim to respond to the expectations of the stakeholders in this area. The first consists of the real-time monitoring of installations/operations and their impact on the environment using the most modern underwater technologies. The second consists of a membrane allowing the confinement of an area, the reduction of the emission of particles in suspension, noise reduction and thermal insulation.

Biao Zhou, Tiejian Zhang, Fei Wang

Applied Sciences • 2023

There are several industrial processes in which heavy metals are used, including but not limited to chrome plating and tanning. Amongst the most toxic heavy metals to human health are arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, copper, nickel, and mercury. The aforementioned toxic metals possess the ability to cause contamination upon their release into the environment. Humans and aquatic and terrestrial animals are at risk from heavy metals in water and soil. Heavy metal toxicity has the potential to result in several health complications, such as renal and hepatic impairment, dermatological afflictions, cognitive lethargy, and potentially oncogenic manifestations. The removal of heavy metals from wastewater and soil can be accomplished using a variety of conventional methods, such as membrane filtration, reverse osmosis, chemical reduction, and adsorption. These methods have several disadvantages, such as generating an abundance of secondary pollutants, and entail significantly higher costs in comparison to biological methods. Conversely, eco-friendly techniques based on microbes have numerous advantages. This review provides a comprehensive overview of biological processes that remove heavy metal ions, both metabolically dependent and metabolically independent. Additionally, we also focused on the source and toxicity of these heavy metals. This study is expected to be particularly beneficial for the development of biological heavy metal treatment systems for soil and water.

M. Lavanya

Journal of Bio- and Tribo-Corrosion • 2021

Abstract Corrosion results from the electrochemical reactions between the metal and its existing environment. Corrosion results in severe and expensive damage to a wide spectrum of industries. When microbes are involved in corrosion it is seldom possible to economically evaluate its impact. Microbially influenced corrosion is recognized to cause catastrophic failures contributing to approximately 20% of the annual losses. In many engineering applications, microbially influenced corrosion control is of prime importance. Expensive, toxicity and sometimes, even ineffectiveness of the current chemical strategies to mitigate microbially influenced corrosion have shifted the interest towards eco-friendly inhibitors. The present review discusses microbial induced corrosion in various metals and its inhibition through eco-friendly inhibitors. In addition, the study also reviews the morphological and electrochemical impedance results.

Xiaozhen Yang, Lin Huang, Qiang Deng et al.

Polymers • 2024

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is an advantageous polymer due to its renewable nature, low cost, environmental compatibility, biocompatibility, biodegradability, chemical stability, and ease of modification. With these advantages, BC is an interesting candidate for the development of novel eco-friendly materials for proton-exchange membrane (PEM) applications. However, its practical applications have been limited by its relatively high dispersion in water, which usually occurs during the operation of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In addition, the proton conductivity of bacterial cellulose is poor. In this study, functionalized BC modified with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) was prepared using a solvent casting method to enhance its performance. The results showed that the water stability of the modified BC membrane was significantly improved, with the contact angle increasing from 54.9° to 103.3°. Furthermore, the optimum ratio of BC and APTES was used to prepare a proton-exchange membrane with a maximum proton conductivity of 62.2 mS/cm, which exhibited a power generation performance of 4.85 mW/cm2 in PEMFCs. It is worth mentioning that modified BC membranes obtained by combining an alkaline proton carrier (-NH2) with BC have rarely been reported. As fully bio-based conductive membranes for PEMFCs, they have the potential to be a low-cost, eco-friendly, and degradable alternative to expensive, ecologically problematic fluoric ionomers in short-term or disposable applications, such as biodegradable electronics and portable power supplies.

Aman Raj, Ashwani Kumar, Joanna Felicity Dames

Frontiers in Microbiology • 2021

Pesticides are used indiscriminately all over the world to protect crops from pests and pathogens. If they are used in excess, they contaminate the soil and water bodies and negatively affect human health and the environment. However, bioremediation is the most viable option to deal with these pollutants, but it has certain limitations. Therefore, harnessing the role of microbial biosurfactants in pesticide remediation is a promising approach. Biosurfactants are the amphiphilic compounds that can help to increase the bioavailability of pesticides, and speeds up the bioremediation process. Biosurfactants lower the surface area and interfacial tension of immiscible fluids and boost the solubility and sorption of hydrophobic pesticide contaminants. They have the property of biodegradability, low toxicity, high selectivity, and broad action spectrum under extreme pH, temperature, and salinity conditions, as well as a low critical micelle concentration (CMC). All these factors can augment the process of pesticide remediation. Application of metagenomic and in-silico tools would help by rapidly characterizing pesticide degrading microorganisms at a taxonomic and functional level. A comprehensive review of the literature shows that the role of biosurfactants in the biological remediation of pesticides has received limited attention. Therefore, this article is intended to provide a detailed overview of the role of various biosurfactants in improving pesticide remediation as well as different methods used for the detection of microbial biosurfactants. Additionally, this article covers the role of advanced metagenomics tools in characterizing the biosurfactant producing pesticide degrading microbes from different environments.

Felice Panebianco, Selene Rubiola, Pierluigi Aldo Di Ciccio

Microorganisms • 2022

Managing spoilage and pathogenic bacteria contaminations represents a major challenge for the food industry, especially for the dairy sector. Biofilms formed by these microorganisms in food processing environment continue to pose concerns to food manufacturers as they may impact both the safety and quality of processed foods. Bacteria inside biofilm can survive in harsh environmental conditions and represent a source of repeated food contamination in dairy manufacturing plants. Among the novel approaches proposed to control biofilm in food processing plants, the ozone treatment, in aqueous or gaseous form, may represent one of the most promising techniques due to its antimicrobial action and low environmental impact. The antimicrobial effectiveness of ozone has been well documented on a wide variety of microorganisms in planktonic forms, whereas little data on the efficacy of ozone treatment against microbial biofilms are available. In addition, ozone is recognized as an eco-friendly technology since it does not leave harmful residuals in food products or on contact surfaces. Thus, this review intends to present an overview of the current state of knowledge on the possible use of ozone as an antimicrobial agent against the most common spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms, usually organized in biofilm, in dairy manufacturing plants.

, N. Radović, M. Stanišić et al.

Economy of Regions • 2023

Hotel industry, as a very dynamic activity within the tourism industry, applies innovations in business and develops voluntary eco-business standards for developing sustainable tourism. The paper aims to assess business excellence of hotels that are holders of the international eco-certificate Green Key in Serbia, a country in the Western Balkan region, by using the BEX model. The study reviews and presents the current situation when it comes to implementation and valorisation of eco-principles and standards in hotel business in Serbia, while examining their business excellence, as well as the opportunities for better positioning in the international tourism market. The research results show that the examined companies do not have poor ranks of business excellence. It is recommended for these hotels to continue with the current business while implementing innovations in sustainable business in order to improve business results. By monitoring the value of the BEX index, it is possible to avoid business risks, while expanding eco-awareness and implementing sustainable business policies, which would help hotel companies improve their business.

Fernanda Cortez Lopes, Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun

Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems • 2021

Many commodities are abundantly produced around the world, including soybean, corn, rice sugarcane, cassava, coffee, fruits, and many others. These productions are responsible for the generation of enormous amounts of daily residues, such as cassava and sugarcane bagasses, rice husk, and coffee peel. These residues are rich sources for renewable energy and can be used as substrates for industrial interest products. Microorganisms are useful biofactories, capable of producing important primary and secondary metabolites, including alcohol, enzymes, antibiotics, pigments, and many other molecules. The production of pigments was reported in bacteria, filamentous fungi, yeasts, and algae. These natural microbial pigments are very promising because synthetic colorants present a long history of allergies and toxicity. In addition, many natural pigments present other biological activities, such as antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, that are interesting for industrial applications. The use of inexpensive substrates for the production of these metabolites is very attractive, considering that agro-industrial residues are generated in high amounts and usually are a problem to the industry. Therefore, in this article we review the production of microbial pigments using agro-industrial residues during the current decade (2010–2020), considering both submerged and solid state fermentations, wild-type and genetically modified microorganisms, laboratorial to large-scale bioprocesses, and other possible biological activities related to these pigments.

Victor Alejandro Serrano, Carlos Alberto Guerrero Fajardo, Karol Tatiana Castro

Preprints.org • 2024

Biobutanol is becoming more relevant as a promising alternative biofuel, primarily due to its advantageous characteristics. These include a higher energy content and density compared to traditional biofuels, as well as its ability to mix effectively with gasoline, further enhancing its viability as a potential replacement. A viable strategy for attaining carbon neutrality, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and utilizing sustainable and renewable resources is the use of biomass to produce biobutanol. Lignocellulosic materials have gained widespread recognition as highly suitable feedstocks for the synthesis of butanol, together with various value-added byproducts. The successful generation of biobutanol hinges on three crucial factors: effective feedstock pretreatment, the choice of fermentation techniques, and the subsequent enhancement of the produced butanol. While biobutanol holds promise as an alternative biofuel, it is important to acknowledge certain drawbacks associated with its production and utilization. One significant limitation is the relatively high cost of production compared to other biofuels, additionally, the current reliance on lignocellulosic feedstocks necessitates significant advancements in pretreatment and bioconversion technologies to enhance overall process efficiency. Furthermore, the limited availability of biobutanol-compatible infrastructure, such as distribution and storage systems, poses a barrier to its widespread adoption. Addressing these drawbacks is crucial for maximizing the potential benefits of biobutanol as a sustainable fuel source. This document presents an extensive review encompassing the historical development of biobutanol production and explores emerging trends in the field.

Adharsh Rajasekar, Armstrong Ighodalo Omoregie, Kan Fock Kui

Letters in Applied Microbiology • 2025

Abstract Heavy metal contamination significantly threatens environmental and public health, necessitating effective and sustainable remediation technologies. This review explores two innovative bioremediation techniques: microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) and enzyme-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (EICP). Both techniques show promise for immobilizing heavy metals in laboratory and field settings. MICP utilizes the metabolic activity of ureolytic microorganisms to precipitate calcium carbonate, sequestering heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic as stable metal–carbonate complexes. EICP, on the other hand, employs urease enzymes to catalyze calcium carbonate precipitation, offering greater control over reaction conditions and higher efficiency in environments unfavorable to microbial activity. This mini-review compares the mechanisms of MICP and EICP, focusing on factors influencing their performance, including enzyme or microbial activity, pH, temperature, and nutrient availability. Case studies illustrate their success in sequestering heavy metals, emphasizing their practical applications and environmental benefits. A comparative analysis highlights the strengths and limitations of MICP and EICP regarding cost, scalability, and challenges. This review synthesizes research to support the advancement of MICP and EICP as sustainable solutions for mitigating heavy metal contamination.

Bilge Sayın Börekçi

Green Chemistry for the Development of Eco-Friendly Products • 2022

With the increasing population, developing technology, and industry, the importance given to waste control/effective assessment studies continue with increasing momentum. The use of wastes in the production of biotechnological products is preferred due to its advantages in reducing environmental pollution, preventing nutrient and biomass losses, recycling, and decreasing costs. Citric acid (CA) is an intermediate product formed by the oxidation of carbohydrates to carbon dioxide in the Krebs cycle. This organic acid is used in many industrial areas such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. It is also an important organic acid in the food industry and is used as an acidifier, a stabilizer, an antioxidant, a flavor enhancer, and a preservative. Today, CA production is produced by microorganisms through fermentation. In addition, some wastes, such as molasses, glycerol, whey, olive mill wastewater, and various fruit wastes can be evaluated for use in the production of CA. This study reviewed the microbial production of CA using various wastes and some factors affecting the production.

G. De Lorenzo, P. Fragiacomo

Fuel Cells • 2010

Abstract This article refers to a Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) system coupled to a plant with a microgas turbine and a heat recovery system for obtaining a small sized hybrid system in co‐generative arrangement. MCFC are devices capable of concentrating carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) produced in anode exhaust gases. If they are handled conveniently, it is possible to separate and store the surplus CO 2 produced by the plant instead of emitting it into the atmosphere. From the simulation model of the MCFC system, previously developed by the authors, a zero‐dimensional and stationary simulation model for the whole hybrid system was formulated and implemented in the same language. By the simulation model of the MCFC system it has been possible to make a parametric analysis of the hybrid plant to find some optimal operating conditions of the fuel cell(s) that maximise the performance of the entire hybrid plant. In addition, the separation of the CO 2 surplus produced by the hybrid plant was simulated by the model and then the emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NO x ) from the same plant were evaluated.

E. B. Ituen, O. Akaranta, O. A. James

SPE Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition • 2015

Abstract The applications of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) now transcends food supplements to solving global oilfield problem caused by corrosion. Being an alkaloid, 5HTP is environmentally non-toxic and relatively inexpensive. Its potential as oilfield inhibitor of mild steel corrosion has been investigated at 30 °C to 60 °C using weight loss technigue simulated in both 2.0 M hydrochloric acid and 2.0 M sulphuric acid. The efficiency of inhibition increased with increase in concentration of 5-HTP and decreased with increase in temperature. High inhibition efficiencies up to 93.72 % and 90.23 % were obtained in hydrochloric acid and sulphuric acid respectively even at concentrations as low as 1.0 Ò 10−4 M 5-HTP at room temperature. The compound inhibits corrosion mainly by adsorption mechanism determined by fitting surface coverage data into some adsorption isotherms from where the nature of interactions in the adsorbed layer was predicted. The inhibition of mild steel corrosion by 5-HTP was best approximated by the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Physical adsorption mechanism involving electrostatic interaction of charged molecules of the 5-HTP with charged metal is proposed. Stability of the inhibitor to high temperature was also elucidated using thermodynamic models. It was implied from results that 5-HTP is a stable inhibitor at temperatures up to 60 °C. The inhibitor protects the mild steel surface effectively from acid attack, with better protection obtained in HCl. The adsorption process was exothermic and spontaneous at the temperatures studied. 5-HTP would make an efficient corrosion inhibitor for oilfield operations.

Mansi Chawla, Shivani Narwal, Rajesh Dhankhar et al.

Ecology, Environment and Conservation • 2023

Accumulation of non-biodegradable plastic has shown adverse impacts on the environment and calls for a dire need for a sustainable alternative. Various microbial strains can produce bioplastics in the form of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) as energy reserves. Many bacteria, fungi and microalgae have been studied to produce such biopolymers. PHAs are biodegradable and meet the basic requirements of life cycle environmental impact or life cycle assessments for proper disposal. They are also biocompatible and renewable. They have high Elastic modulus, Tensile modulus, melting temperature, and crystallinity with many other properties similar to synthetic plastics currently in use, making them a more reliable and sustainable substitute. Bioplastics produced from PHAs have found a myriad of applications in medicine, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and the packaging industry. This review emphasizes the structure of PHAs, their biosynthesis and relevant microbial strains employed, including genetically engineered strains, microbes from extreme niches and mixed microbial cultures. It focuses on using cheap and sustainable carbon feedstocks, including agricultural residues, lignocellulosic biomass and crude glycerol, on making the production of PHAs cleaner and commercially feasible. Industrially scaled production using different fermentation strategies, downstream processing and purification, along with the wide range of applications of PHAs, is also discussed.

Teresa Berninger, Natalie Dietz, Óscar González López

Microbial Biotechnology • 2021

Summary Water‐soluble polymers (WSPs) are a versatile group of chemicals used across industries for different purposes such as thickening, stabilizing, adhesion and gelation. Synthetic polymers have tailored characteristics and are chemically homogeneous, whereas plant‐derived biopolymers vary more widely in their specifications and are chemically heterogeneous. Between both sources, microbial polysaccharides are an advantageous compromise. They combine naturalness with defined material properties, precisely controlled by optimizing strain selection, fermentation operational parameters and downstream processes. The relevance of such bio‐based and biodegradable materials is rising due to increasing environmental awareness of consumers and a tightening regulatory framework, causing both solid and water‐soluble synthetic polymers, also termed ‘microplastics’, to have come under scrutiny. Xanthan gum is the most important microbial polysaccharide in terms of production volume and diversity of applications, and available as different grades with specific properties. In this review, we will focus on the applicability of xanthan gum in agriculture (drift control, encapsulation and soil improvement), considering its potential to replace traditionally used synthetic WSPs. As a spray adjuvant, xanthan gum prevents the formation of driftable fine droplets and shows particular resistance to mechanical shear. Xanthan gum as a component in encapsulated formulations modifies release properties or provides additional protection to encapsulated agents. In geotechnical engineering, soil amended with xanthan gum has proven to increase water retention, reduce water evaporation, percolation and soil erosion – topics of high relevance in the agriculture of the 21st century. Finally, hands‐on formulation tips are provided to facilitate exploiting the full potential of xanthan gum in diverse agricultural applications and thus providing sustainable solutions.

Renganathan Manimaran

Clean Energy • 2025

Abstract This article discusses the solar-assisted technologies from the Indian subcontinent to address the sustainable development targets developed by the United Nations program. For water and renewable energy, technologies presented in this paper include carbon sequestration, solar biomass, power plants with thermal and photovoltaic systems, irrigation systems, heating systems, dryers, distillation systems, solar desalination, and water treatment. Various techniques are suggested for clean water recovery using solar distillation, solar stills, and desalination. Various methods of solar drying the fruits and vegetables have been discussed using flat-plate collector. Power production from solar–thermal, solar–photovoltaic, and solar–biomass systems are covered from recent studies. Prospects on future solar energy research is recommended on solar cells, magnetized solar stills, heat pump-integrated solar power production systems, and plasmonic nanofluids in solar collectors. In conclusion, the outlook for solar technologies is examined.

Enrico Drioli, Alfredo Cassano

Clean Technologies • 2023

The leather industry is characterized by the production of a huge amount of wastewater with a high organic/inorganic charge, causing widespread water and soil pollution. Pressure-driven membrane operations and membrane bioreactors have long been proven to be a valid approach for the treatment of tanning wastewaters aimed at the recovery of raw materials as well as for the removal of toxic and environmentally harmful substances. Such processes, opportunely integrated among themselves and/or with conventional physical-chemical and biological treatments, also provide useful protocols for the treatment of global wastewaters with significant advantages in terms of environmental protection, decrease of disposal costs, simplification of cleaning-up processes and saving of water and chemicals. This paper, as the state of the art, attempts to revise the potential and perspectives of membrane-based technologies in the leather industry with related applications in beamhouse, tanning and post-tanning operations as well as in the treatment of global wastewaters.