BOGDAN-MARIAN TOFĂNICĂ, “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical
University of Iași, Iași, Romania ELENA UNGUREANU, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad”
Iași University of Life Sciences, Iași, Romania,
elena.ungureanu@iuls.ro OVIDIU C. UNGUREANU,
“Vasile Goldis” West University of Arad, Arad, Romania MARIA E.
FORTUNĂ,
“Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iași, Romania IRINA VOLF,
“Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iași, Iași, Romania
VALENTIN I. POPA, “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iași,
Iași, Romania
Abstract Agricultural residues, traditionally regarded as waste,
represent an abundant and renewable resource that can significantly
contribute to a circular economy. By converting crop byproducts like stalks,
husks, and straw into valuable bioproducts, industries can reduce reliance
on non-renewable resources while minimizing environmental impact. This
article explores the potential of agricultural residues, in various
applications, including biochemicals, biofuels, bioplastics, packaging
materials, biocides, bisorbents and biocomposites. Integrating these
residues into production cycles not only reduces waste and conserves natural
resources but also provides economic benefits to rural communities and
supports sustainable development. Despite challenges like processing costs
and logistical issues, advances in technology and supportive policies are
accelerating the adoption of agricultural residues in circular economy
models to create a closed-loop system where resources are reused, recycled,
and repurposed, minimizing waste and conserving natural resources. This
shift towards repurposing agricultural waste is essential for building a
resilient, low-carbon economy and promoting sustainable resource management. Keywords: Agricultural residues, Circular economy, Lignocellulosic,
Bioproducts, Resource efficiency