Microbial and synthetic biology solutions for waste management and biomanufacturing off Earth

Waste management aboard the International Space Station is a critical challenge due to limited space, microgravity, and continuous waste generation. This manuscript explores biotechnological strategies that convert waste into valuable resources, supporting sustainability and reducing reliance on Earth. Biowaste decomposition transforms organic waste into nutrients and biogas, while regenerative life support systems recycle carbon, water, and minerals. Biomining enables microbes to extract rare elements and upcycle electronic waste into mission-critical metals. Engineered extremophiles demonstrate resilience and productivity in space, supporting their potential role in regenerative life support systems. Biomanufacturing platforms that use alternative and in situ feedstocks demonstrated the capability of producing vitamins and pharmaceuticals from waste-derived feedstocks. These innovations enhance crew health, reduce launch mass, and offer scalable models for sustainable resource recovery, marking a shift toward self-sufficient extraterrestrial habitats while simultaneously establishing the foundations for materially closed-loop bioregenerative life-support systems essential for Mars missions and long-term off-Earth settlements.