A systematic review published in theMoroccan Journal of Chemistry by Asep Bayu Dani Nandiyanto, Meli Fiandini, Obie Farobie, Teguh niawan, and M. Roil Bilad unveils a significant surge in global research focused on transforming biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More waste into valuable products, particularly within the framework of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the transition to a low-carbon society. This comprehensive analysis highlights the multidisciplinary efforts and diverse applications emerging from discarded organic materials.

The study reveals a notable increase in academic attention to biomass utilization for sustainable development, with publications rising dramatically by 367% from 3 documents in 2020 to a peak of 14 documents in 2024. This upward trend signals a growing global urgency to harness biomass as a key strategy for mitigating climate change, reducing carbon emissions, and replacing fossil fuels with renewable alternatives. While there was a slight dip to 2 publications in 2022, potentially due to the COVID-19 pandemic redirecting research priorities, the subsequent rebound in 2023 with 8 documents, followed by the 2024 peak, underscores sustained and intensified commitment in this area.

Research in this domain spans multiple scientific disciplines, underscoring its multifaceted nature. Energy accounts for the largest proportion of studies, at 17.7%, reflecting a primary focus on developing biomass as an alternative energy source, such as biofuels, biogas, and biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More. Environmental Science follows closely at 16.7%, indicating substantial attention to the environmental benefits, including carbon emission reduction and waste management, derived from biomass utilization. Chemical Engineering contributes 14.6% of the research, emphasizing the crucial role of engineering processes like pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More, gasificationGasification is a high-temperature, thermochemical process that converts carbon-based materials into a gaseous fuel called syngas and solid by-products. It takes place in an oxygen-deficient environment at temperatures typically above 750°C. Unlike combustion, which fully burns material to produce heat and carbon dioxide (CO2​), gasification More, and fermentation in converting biomass into useful products.

Geographically, the study highlights a significant contribution from Asian countries. China leads in publications with 10 documents, followed by India with 6. This strong focus in these nations is likely driven by their high demand for renewable energy and the substantial availability of biomass waste from agricultural and industrial sectors. Other nations, including Japan, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and the United States, each contributed 4 documents, demonstrating a balanced global interest in advancing biomass conversion technologies and related green energy policies.

The transformation of biomass waste yields a variety of value-added products that directly contribute to achieving various SDGs. Bioenergy, encompassing biogas, bioethanol, and briquettes, directly supports SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Addressing Climate Change) by providing clean energy and reducing carbon footprints through fossil fuel replacement. Bioplastics, developed from cellulose and chitin, offer a carbon-neutral solution to plastic pollution, aligning with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Furthermore, biocomposites, made from natural fibers like coconut or bamboo, promote circular economy principles and support SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 by extending material lifecycles and reducing reliance on petrochemicals. Biochar, a solid charcoalCharcoal is a black, brittle, and porous material produced by heating wood or other organic substances in a low-oxygen environment. It is primarily used as a fuel source for cooking and heating.   More produced through biomass pyrolysis, significantly contributes to SDG 13, SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 15 by improving soil quality, absorbing heavy metals, and acting as a long-term carbon sink. Lastly, biomass briquettes, derived from agricultural waste, serve as an affordable and clean renewable energy source for households and small industries, aligning with SDG 7, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Human Settlements).

While the potential for biomass development is vast, challenges in technical, social, and policy aspects persist. Overcoming these requires cross-sectoral synergy to fully encourage biomass utilization as a strategic solution for sustainable development and to strengthen the green industry. The biorefinery concept, which processes biological materials into diverse end products, offers an integrated approach to optimize biomass waste. Continued advancements in biotechnology and nanotechnology also hold promise for enhancing the quality and performance of biomass products. Integrating biomass into national energy policies and global decarbonization strategies will be crucial in leveraging green incentive schemes and public-private partnerships to support sustainable projects.

Source: Nandiyanto, A. B. D., Fiandini, M., Farobie, O., Kurniawan, T., & Bilad, M. R. (2025). Harnessing Biomass Waste for Value-Added Products in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Systematic Review of Low-Carbon Transition, Bibliometric, Technical Insights, and Challenges. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 13(3), 1522-1547.