Waste Management in Agro-Products: Challenges, Strategies, and Innovations

Abstract

Agricultural production generates a significant amount of waste, which poses serious environmental, economic, and health challenges if not properly managed. Agro-product waste, including crop residues, food processing by-products, post-harvest losses, and packaging waste, has become an area of concern due to its growing volume and environmental impact. Effective waste management practices are essential for promoting sustainability in agriculture, reducing pollution, and optimizing resource use. This review explores the types of agro-product waste, the challenges involved in its management, and various strategies for waste reduction and resource recovery, such as composting, biogas production, and the development of value-added products. Innovative technologies, including smart waste management systems, enzyme-based waste breakdown, and circular economy models, are also discussed as potential solutions to mitigate the impacts of agro-product waste. The article emphasizes the importance of integrating these strategies into agricultural practices to enhance environmental sustainability, improve economic outcomes for farmers, and contribute to a circular economy.