Activity: Publication peer-review and editorial work › Editorial work
Sustainability in integrated food systems is a critical area of research, particularly in the context of biovalorization and the circular bioeconomy. As the global population continues to grow, the demand for food increases, necessitating more efficient production and waste management practices. Recent advancements in food processing technologies and agricultural practices, such as biovalorization, have shown promise in creating sustainable food systems. Biovalorization involves converting organic waste and biomass into valuable products like bioenergy, biofuels, and biochar, which aligns with the principles of a circular bioeconomy. This economic model focuses on optimizing renewable resources, minimizing waste, and reducing environmental impact through resource reuse, recycling, and regeneration in a closed-loop system. Despite these advancements, significant gaps remain, particularly in the pre-treatment techniques for lignin depolymerization from agricultural waste and ensuring the sustainability of these processes. This research topic aims to explore and promote sustainability within integrated food systems through the principles of biovalorization and the circular bioeconomy. The main objectives include investigating agrifood waste management via biovalorization methods, understanding the evolution towards integrated food systems that embrace circular bioeconomy ideals, and examining advancements in food processing industries. Additionally, the topic seeks to identify and analyze policies that support sustainable practices. Specific questions to be addressed include: How can biovalorization methods be optimized to reduce greenhouse gas emissions? What are the most effective strategies for implementing circular bioeconomy principles in food systems? How can policy interventions facilitate the transition to sustainable food systems? To gather further insights into the boundaries of this research, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes: • Policy interventions to apply circular bioeconomy principles to integrated food systems. • Innovative approaches aimed at reducing agricultural and food processing waste. • Strategies for high-value biovalorization of agri-food waste. • Biotechnological innovations for closed-loop food systems aiming towards minimization of food waste.