Summary
This narrative review synthesises global evidence on agricultural waste management, documenting that 10–50% of agricultural products are discarded annually and highlighting the dual environmental burden and resource opportunity this presents. The authors appraise multiple conversion pathways—from anaerobic digestion and gasification for energy, to composting and livestock feed integration—and emphasise the enabling role of policy frameworks, public-private partnerships, and farmer education in scaling these circular economy solutions.
Regional applicability
The findings are globally applicable but require contextualisation to United Kingdom conditions. The review's emphasis on policy frameworks and public-private partnerships aligns with UK agricultural policy priorities, though specific technologies (e.g. large-scale gasification, vermicomposting) would need assessment against UK waste regulations, farm scale, and climate conditions. The livestock feed integration pathway is particularly relevant to UK mixed farming systems.
Key measures
Waste management practices; pollution reduction; bioenergy yield; soil fertility enhancement; resource recovery pathways
Outcomes reported
The review identifies strategies for converting agricultural waste (10–50% of annual agricultural products) into resources through bioenergy production, composting, mulching, and value-added products. It evaluates technologies including anaerobic digestion, gasification, and circular economy practices to mitigate environmental, economic, and social impacts of waste disposal.
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