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Updated: Feb 9, 2026

The Hawaii Protocol for Scientific Monitoring of Coffee Berry Borer: a Model for Coffee Agroecosystems Worldwide
Published on: March 19, 2018
Converting environmental risks to benefits by using spent coffee grounds (SCG) as a valuable resource
Marinos Stylianou1, Agapios Agapiou2, Michalis Omirou3
1NIREAS-International Research Center, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, CY-1678, Nicosia, Cyprus. stylianou.a.marinos@ucy.ac.cy.
Spent coffee grounds (SCG) are a rich organic waste stream from coffee production. This review explores SCG
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Food Science
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- Coffee consumption generates millions of tons of waste annually, including spent coffee grounds (SCG).
- SCG is a unique, nutrient-rich organic waste stream with minimal contamination, sourced directly from coffee shops.
- Current disposal methods often involve landfilling untreated waste, posing environmental challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a holistic review of spent coffee grounds (SCG) waste management.
- To highlight diverse processes and applications for SCG in environmental, food, and agricultural sectors.
- To discuss the latest developments and approaches in SCG valorization.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications on SCG waste management and applications.
- Analysis of research on the composition and properties of SCG.
- Synthesis of information on SCG's potential in various industrial and environmental contexts.
Main Results:
- SCG is a valuable source of bioactive compounds like phenolics, flavonoids, and lipids.
- SCG can be utilized in applications such as soil improvement, biochar production, biodiesel, cosmetics, and food products.
- SCG demonstrates potential as a heavy metal absorbent and deodorizing agent.
Conclusions:
- Effective waste management strategies for SCG are crucial for environmental sustainability.
- SCG offers significant potential for valorization across multiple industries, transforming waste into valuable resources.
- Further research and development can unlock the full potential of SCG in circular economy models.
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