ABSTRACT

Large volumes of waste are generated daily by urban, industrial, and agricultural activities that can become an aggravating environmental factor if improperly disposed of. Aiming at sustainable development and a circular economy, using these wastes to obtain value-added products becomes a viable alternative. The production of enzymes, agricultural products, and energy generation from biofuels obtained through residues allow a noble destination for the residue and getting a product of more accessible economic value. The development of bioproducts from waste involves numerous technological processes in the various stages that precede their final design, such as pretreatment, microbial fermentation processes, and enzymatic hydrolysis. In this sense, we will address in this chapter the most recent studies on the potential of agro-industrial and food residues to obtain value-added products, as well as the different technologies involved in the process, discussing future perspectives and the main challenges applied, aiming at a comprehensive review on the use of these wastes.