Growing environmental concerns have increased the focus on sustainable, biodegradable alternatives to plastic-based materials [1]. Among these, nanocellulose (NC) is valued for its renewability, biocompatibility, and functional properties, making it a promising candidate for diverse applications. NC is classified into cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs), and bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), each derived through distinct processes [2]. Plant-based nanocellulose (CNCs and CNFs) is typically produced through the depolymerization of lignocellulosic biomass to remove hemicellulose and amorphous cellulose fractions, retaining nanoscale crystalline cellulose. This is achieved enzymatically, chemically, or mechanically [2]. In contrast, BNC is synthesized via a polymerization-based process, where bacteria convert sugars into cellulose [3].

Inspired by these pathways, we developed a dual bioprocess that integrates both approaches using lignocellulosic biomass to valorize the streams. Agricultural and forest residual feedstocks were subjected to a mild OxiOrganosolv pretreatment process [4], producing a cellulose-rich solid fraction and a hemicellulose-rich aqueous liquor. Both streams underwent enzymatic hydrolysis and saccharification, with sugar release quantified using spectrophotometry and other methods. The fermentable sugars were then used as a carbon source for the microbial production of BNC by Komagataeibacter sp., and the resulting nanocellulose was characterized to confirm its properties. Optimizing the process with various biomass sources, enzymatic treatments, and bacterial strains directed the system toward enhanced saccharification (maximizing sugar release for BNC synthesis) or higher cellulose integrity retention (enhancing CNF yield) [5]. Different enzyme combinations were tested to balance these outcomes, and various carbon sources were evaluated for their effectiveness in supporting bacterial strains to optimize nanocellulose production yield. This integrated process offers a sustainable, scalable approach to NC production, maximizing output with minimal input.