Circular Economy

We have actively advanced circular economic strategies by transforming low-value agricultural and industrial residues into high-value bioproducts.

WASTE VALORIZATION

A prominent example is our work on the comprehensive valorization of date seeds, which demonstrated the feasibility of producing biofuels, biochemicals, and personal care ingredients from a single waste stream. This integrated approach showcases the potential of converting regional agri-residues into commercially viable products, closing resource loops. Our innovations also extend to wastewater valorization. We have developed systems that recover fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from industrial wastewater using biological agents such as microalgae, subsequently converting the recovered lipids into biodiesel and other valuable compounds. This aligns with our vision of waste-to-resource transformation and sustainable bioproduct development.

PATENTS

CO2 CAPTURE AND UTILIZATION

We have also contributed to CO₂ conversion technologies, including a patented multienzyme system immobilized on hydrophobic MOFs for efficient hydrogenation of CO₂ into formate. This work exemplifies a biochemical approach to carbon utilization, producing high-value chemicals from greenhouse gas emissions. Another innovative solution under this pillar involves the production of biocement from microalgae, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional cement and significantly reducing reliance on virgin resources. These efforts embody circularity in both design and execution.

PATENTS

ENZYME-ACTIVE MEMBRANES

One of our innovative research initiatives focuses on the development of enzyme-active membranes for advanced wastewater treatment. This project integrates membrane technology, enzyme immobilization and advanced materials to fabricate biocatalytic membranes (BMs) capable of removing emerging pollutants (EPs) from wastewater while reducing the fouling effect and enhancing the stability of the membranes.

Circular Economy Solutions