This study introduces a clean, low-impact recycling method for Tetra Pak waste (TPW), demonstrating how green chemistry principles can transform complex post-consumer materials into valuable resources. The multilayer composition of TPW, primarily aluminum and polyethylene, poses significant challenges for conventional recycling due to its resistant structure. To overcome this, we developed a sustainable aqueous alkaline hydrolysis process that efficiently separated these layers under mild conditions, eliminating the need for toxic solvents or high energy consumption. A key advantage is the simultaneous generation of green hydrogen gas, a clean, renewable energy carrier produced by the reaction between aluminum and sodium hydroxide. Alongside hydrogen production, the process yields a porous, lettuce-like sodium aluminate byproduct. Rather than disposing of this solid, we repurpose it as an environmentally friendly additive in cement systems. When incorporated into Portland cement, it significantly accelerates the hydration process, dramatically reducing the initial setting time from 285 minutes to just 87 minutes. This catalytic effect was verified using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and temperature evolution analysis. By addressing multiple environmental challenges, waste valorization, renewable energy generation, and enhanced construction materials, this integrated approach exemplifies green chemistry and circular economy principles. It provides a scalable, eco-friendly solution for sustainable industrial development and responsible resource management.

Reducing residential energy consumption is critical for achieving global sustainability targets, with windows representing a significant source of solar heat gain and thermal loss. However, their expansive surface area also presents a valuable opportunity for decentralized energy generation. This study presents the design and implementation of a prototype dual-function photovoltaic window system that integrates flexible solar panels for dynamic shading and a compact lithium battery for local energy storage. The methodology involves developing an experimental setup where translucent, flexible photovoltaic panels are retrofitted onto a standard residential window. The system is connected to a charge controller and a small-capacity lithium-ion battery pack. Key performance metrics, including solar irradiance, power generation efficiency, reduction in thermal transmittance, and battery state of charge, are continuously monitored under varying real-world environmental conditions.The integrated panels can significantly reduce solar heat gain, thereby lowering indoor ambient temperature and reducing the building's cooling load. Simultaneously, the system will generate sufficient electricity to be stored in the lithium battery, providing a self-contained power source for low-draw applications such as lighting or charging personal devices. This research highlights the viability of developing cost-effective, multi-functional building components that transform passive architectural elements into active energy-saving and power-generating systems in terms of green environment goals.

Arsenic contamination in groundwater poses a significant threat to public health and agricultural sustainability in Southern Punjab, Pakistan, where naturally occurring arsenic exceeds WHO safety limits. Traditional remediation techniques are often costly, energy-intensive, and environmentally unfriendly. Iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe₂O₃ NPs) have demonstrated significant potential for adsorbing heavy metals, particularly arsenic, from water and soil. The green synthesis approach using plant extracts minimizes chemical toxicity and enhances environmental compatibility. This study aimed to synthesize iron oxide nanoparticles using Moringa oleifera leaf extract, removing arsenic (As³⁺/As⁵⁺) from arsenic-affected regions in Southern Punjab. Iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized via aqueous extraction of Moringa oleifera leaves, acting as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The nanoparticles were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, and SEM. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted under varying pH, contact time, and nanoparticle dosages. Groundwater samples were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The green-synthesized Fe₂O₃ NPs exhibited spherical morphology with an average size of 20–40 nm. The maximum arsenic removal efficiency (92.6%) was observed at pH 6.5 within 60 minutes. The nanoparticles retained over 85% efficiency after three reuse cycles, indicating good stability and reusability. The study demonstrates that Moringa oleifera-mediated iron oxide nanoparticles provide an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and efficient solution for arsenic remediation in groundwater.

Ferrite–polymer composites, which merge the magnetic properties of ferrites with the flexibility of polymers, present a remarkable combination of strength and versatility, unlocking opportunities for innovative applications. In this study, NiGd_0.1Fe_1.9O₄ spinel ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized by adopting a hydrothermal method. Synthesized nanoparticles were then incorporated into a nylon 11 matrix to form a NiGd_0.1Fe_1.9O₄/Nylon composite using the tape casting method. The addition of spinel ferrite nanofillers enabled precise tuning of the electromagnetic shielding properties of the composites. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) shows the polyhedral crystal structure of the synthesized nanoparticles with an average particle size of 20 nm. BET analysis shows mesoporous nanoparticles with a specific surface area of 40.701 m²/g. X-ray diffraction (XRD) with Rietveld refinement confirmed the formation of single crystal phases, which corresponds to the Fd3m space group with a lattice constant of 8.3614 Å. The FTIR spectrum with an absorption band of around 400–600 cm^-1 revealed the vibration of positive ions at tetrahedral and octahedral sites, characteristic of spinel ferrite formation. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), provided insights into the morphology, stoichiometric and uniform distribution of ferrites within the polymer matrix. FTIR of the composite revealed the formation of the metastable ferroelectric phase of nylon 11. Finally, magnetic and dielectric properties of the composite were evaluated across varying ferrite concentrations.

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions remain a pressing global concern due to their disproportionately large contribution to greenhouse-gas-driven climate change. CO₂ is released through multiple anthropogenic processes, including industrial activity, transportation, and residential energy use. To mitigate its environmental impact, sustainable carbon capture and utilization (CCU) strategies are essential—especially those that can transform captured CO₂ into valuable products. This study aimed to investigate, using Density Functional Theory (DFT), the potential of a choline chloride–lactic acid deep eutectic solvent (ChCl–Lac DES) to serve as a dual-function system for both CO₂ capture and gingerol extraction, contributing to green pharmaceutical applications. All calculations were performed using the wB97X-D functional with PM3-optimized geometries, employing a dual basis set in the gas phase to account for dispersion effects. The DES showed a significantly more negative CO₂ binding energy (–0.86 eV) compared to monoethanolamine (MEA, –0.234 eV), confirming superior CO₂ affinity. Additionally, CO₂ demonstrated moderate binding with 6-gingerol (–0.17 eV), supporting its viability in pharmaceutical extraction. Notably, the DES exhibited an even stronger interaction with 6-gingerol (–1.87 eV), highlighting its potential as a green extraction solvent following CO₂ capture. These findings confirm ChCl–Lac DES as a promising candidate for integrated CCU systems, enabling both carbon mitigation and value-added chemical recovery.

Quercetin and caffeic acid are bioactive phytochemicals with significant pharmaceutical value due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and therapeutic properties. The growing demand for efficient and environmentally friendly extraction methods has spurred interest in green solvents such as deep eutectic solvents (DESs). In this study, a choline chloride–malic acid (ChCl–MA) DES was evaluated as a sustainable alternative to conventional solvents like ethanol for extracting quercetin and caffeic acid. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were used to examine the molecular interactions and extraction potential of ChCl–MA compared to ethanol. All computations were performed using the wB97X-D functional, which accounts for dispersion interactions, with initial geometries optimized at the PM3 level. A dual basis set (6-31G(d)/3-21G*) was applied in the vacuum (gas phase) to ensure reliable results. The ChCl–MA DES was found to be thermodynamically stable and chemically more reactive than ethanol, as indicated by its lower HOMO–LUMO energy gap. It also exhibited stronger binding interactions with the target compounds: –1.63 eV for quercetin and –0.35 eV for caffeic acid, compared to ethanol’s –0.30 eV and –0.33 eV, respectively. These findings suggest that ChCl–MA may offer enhanced extraction potential relative to ethanol. However, it is important to note that these conclusions are based on vacuum (gas-phase) DFT simulations, which do not fully account for solvent-phase dynamics (solvation effect) or entropy effects. Therefore, while the results offer valuable theoretical insight into solvent–solute interactions, further experimental and solution-phase computational studies are necessary to validate the practical efficiency of ChCl–MA in real extraction scenarios.

Groundwater plays a crucial role in regions like southern Uzbekistan, where surface water is limited. This study investigates the physico-chemical properties of groundwater in the Koson district (Kashkadarya region) to assess its suitability for drinking and sustainable use. Four samples (S1–S4) collected from different depths (100–1650 m) were analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total alkalinity, total hardness (TH), calcium hardness (CaH), magnesium hardness (MgH), and total dissolved solids (TDS). Ionometric and elemental analyses were also conducted using standard methods, including ICP-MS. While all samples had a pH within WHO-recommended limits (6.5–8.5), EC, TDS, and hardness values exceeded permissible levels in most cases. Sample S2 recorded the highest EC (6295 µS/cm) and TDS (7600 mg/L), indicating excessive salinity. Total hardness in some samples reached up to 930 mg/L, suggesting unsuitable conditions for direct consumption. Elemental analysis revealed relatively high sodium, calcium, and magnesium levels, though within safe limits. Ionometric data indicated possible contamination from agricultural and anthropogenic sources, including elevated nitrate (NO₃⁻) and ammonium (NH₄⁺) levels. The findings suggest that while groundwater can be a critical water source, proper treatment is required before use. Regular monitoring and management are essential to prevent health risks and ensure long-term water sustainability in the region.

This paper examines how Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), particularly when conducted using OpenLCA software, is being applied to measure and manage carbon emissions in various processes. With many industrial and operational processes contributing significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions, tools like LCA have become essential to track where emissions come from and how to reduce them across entire production and service chains. OpenLCA, in particular, has emerged as a widely used platform due to its open-source nature, adaptability, and support for a variety of global databases. These features make it accessible not only to researchers but also to industries and policymakers aiming to design greener and more sustainable process operations. This study systematically reviews 36 peer-reviewed papers published between 2015 and 2025. The selected studies cover a broad range of applications, including last-mile delivery, multimodal freight transport, warehousing operations, and integrated supply chains. The review process followed PRISMA guidelines to ensure transparency and a structured selection of relevant literature. The findings highlight recurring low-carbon strategies, such as the adoption of electric vehicles, optimization of routing systems, and modal shifts to more sustainable transport options. Despite these innovations, the review also identifies common limitations. These include the lack of region-specific emission data, inconsistencies in defining system boundaries, and minimal attention to uncertainty analysis within LCA models. In conclusion, the review reinforces the importance of LCA and OpenLCA specifically in guiding various process sectors toward more sustainable practices. However, to make these tools even more effective, there is a need for higher-quality datasets, harmonized methodologies, and a stronger focus on context-specific applications in both developed and developing regions.

Abattoir wastewater is a significant source of heavy metal contamination, posing a serious threat to water quality and public health. This study examines the performance of a laboratory-scale fixed-bed packed column designed for the removal of iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) ions using an innovative blend of polylactic acid (PLA) and kaolin clay treated with NaCl as adsorbents. The adsorbents were prepared via eco-friendly methods to enhance adsorption efficiency, mechanical strength, and sustainability. Column experiments were conducted under varying operational parameters, including a bed height of 5 to 10 cm, flow rate of 4 ml/min, and influent concentrations for Fe and Cu of 15.345 mg/l and 1.252 mg/l, respectively, to evaluate breakthrough curves and model the system. From the results obtained, the column demonstrated maximum adsorption performance at a bed height of 5 cm for Fe removal and 10 cm for Cu removal, with a flow rate of 4 mL/min. The PLA–kaolin hybrid demonstrated improved binding affinity, longer breakthrough time, and high affinity for Fe and Cu ions. Kinetic modeling confirmed the suitability of the Thomas model and Yoon–Nelson’s models in predicting adsorption dynamics, with a good correlation (R² > 0.95), unlike the Adam–Bohart model. This work highlights the potential of bio-based polymer–clay adsorbents for low-cost, sustainable, and efficient treatment of industrial wastewater in fixed-bed systems.

This preliminary study aims to implement circular economy concepts by reusing agro-industrial waste, such as grape pomace, for sustainable food production. It focuses on creating regional formulations to enhance local economies and biodiversity. The research investigates how grape pomace affects the colour of vegan sausages through colourimetry while promoting local companies to adopt circular practices that reduce waste and optimize resource use in sausage production and consumption. Three vegan sausage formulations were developed containing different proportions of grape pomace (F1=10, F2=20, and F3= 30%) and a control with linseed flour (C) (100%). Instrumental colour analysis revealed marked differences between the vegan formulations and the traditional control. The control sample (C) had an L* value of 40.81, which was significantly higher than the vegan formulations F1 (L*=16.22), F2 (L*=15.49), and F3 (L*=14.18). The samples containing grape pomace were visibly darker in colour (lower L* values), which can be attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds naturally present in pomace, such as anthocyanins and tannins. These compounds, in addition to contributing to the dark colour, can also confer functional characteristics to the product. There was a significant reduction in the a* (red) parameter in the vegan formulations (F1 = 4.79, F2 = 4.09, and F3 = 3.89), reflecting the absence of myoglobin, a typical pigment in meat products, and indicating a different colour profile. The b* (yellow) component was also lower in the pomace formulations (F1 = 4.95; F2 = 2.11; F3 = 1.29) compared to the flaxseed control (C = 23.04), reinforcing the tendency towards more opaque and neutral tones. Although different from traditional sausages, these visual changes may appeal to consumers who prefer natural and sustainable products. Grape pomace shows promise as an ingredient in vegan sausage formulations, offering nutritional value and supporting sustainability by reusing agro-industrial by-products.