Current trends in solid tannery waste management.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Waste Management

Background:

• Tanneries generate substantial solid waste (STW), with 80% of raw material becoming waste during leather production.
• Improperly treated STW severely pollutes soil, water resources, and poses health risks to humans and animals.
• STW consists of proteinaceous untanned and tanned materials requiring effective treatment for safe disposal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss eco-friendly strategies for recycling and reducing tannery solid waste (STW).
• To explore the potential of STW valorization into renewable energy, biofuels, and commercial products.
• To present perspectives on achieving a zero-waste policy in the tannery industry through green technology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing strategies for STW management.
• Analysis of various recycling and reutilization approaches for tannery waste.
• Overview of green-clean technologies for sustainable tannery operations.

Main Results:

• Identified diverse applications for recycled STW, including biogas, biohydrogen, biodiesel, briquettes, construction materials, fertilizers, adsorbents, animal feed, proteins, fats, and enzymes.
• Highlighted the environmental benefits of STW valorization, reducing pollution and conserving resources.
• Emphasized the feasibility of implementing zero-waste policies through innovative technological solutions.

Conclusions:

• Recycling and reutilization of tannery solid waste (STW) offer significant environmental and economic benefits.
• Green-clean technologies are essential for developing sustainable tannery practices and achieving a zero-waste future.
• Adoption of these strategies can mitigate the environmental impact of tanneries and ensure their long-term viability.