Agro-based industrial wastes as potent sources of alternative energy and organic fertilizers

Agriculture-based industries generate significant amounts and varieties of agro-industrial wastes (AIW). AIW, if not treated properly, may cause environmental pollution and pose a harmful effect on human and animal health. Although AIW consist of organic compounds that can pose a risk to the environment, however, if used in the right way can potentially produce bioenergy, biofertilizer, and biofuels. Energy generation using agro-wastes not only fulfill the energy demand locally but also contribute to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Bioenergy a possible substitute for fossil-fuels can be generated from AIW residues like rice straw, sweet potato, sugarcane bagasse, sawdust, etc. Nutrient-rich and bioactive compounds obtained from AIW can be recycled as raw materials in the agro-based industries, which can reduce the total production costs. Moreover, agricultural wastes, such as animal manures, agricultural effluents, biosolids, etc., can be used as organic fertilizers. This will help to mitigate the scarcity of organic fertilizers and increase the crop yield and productivity. However, the sorption of heavy metals in fertilizers needs to be considered. AIW can be converted to biodegradable plastic or can be used as a feed-in aquaculture industry. Overall, AIW seems to be a potent source of alternative energy and organic fertilizers.