Integrating Biotechnology and Circular Economy Principles for Sustainable Rural Handmade Paper Enterprises

Abstract

In the present scenario of rising pollution concerns and increasing episodes of environmental hazards or natural calamities, the relevance of biotechnology (BT) and circular economy (CE) has grown tremendously. There is a need for CE and sustainable production systems and how rural handmade paper (HMP) enterprises can be further improved for bringing sustainability. It highlights the potential of the HMP sector as a waste-to-wealth and resource-efficient production system that utilizes recycled fibres, agricultural residues and non-wood lignocellulosic biomass for papermaking. Whereas, CE can further enhance its sustainability. Although processing lignocellulosic biomass is challenging, biotechnology is a potential aid for overcoming these challenges through various applications. These applications highlight the actual potential of HMP enterprises which can serve as strong examples of grassroots rural employment with immense potential for incorporating CE principles along with BT.