Work

Utilization of Oil Palm Residual Biomass Within the Framework of Industrial Symbiosis: A Systematic Review of the Economic Sectors Involved in Its Valorization

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: This study analyzes the valorization of oil palm biomass residues within the framework of industrial symbiosis (IS), emphasizing their role in circular economy strategies and sustainable industrial development. Through a systematic literature review and snowball sampling, 156 articles indexed in Scopus and Web of Science were examined, classifying evidence by country, type of residue, derived products, economic sector (ISIC Rev. 4), and technological approach. The results show a strong geographical concentration of IS experiences in Asia, particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, where residues such as empty fruit bunches (EFB), palm kernel shells (PKS), oil palm mesocarp fibers, palm oil mill effluent (POME), and oil palm trunks (OPT) are integrated into processes for bioenergy, biochemicals, composite materials, construction products, biochar, and bioplastics. In contrast, applications in Latin America and Africa remain incipient, with high potential but limited industrial implementation due to infrastructural and regulatory gaps. Technological trends point toward thermo-chemical and biological conversion routes (pyrolysis, gasification, hydrothermal carbonization, anaerobic digestion), development of advanced materials and catalysts, and the emergence of integrated biorefinery models supported by computational optimization tools. The analysis highlights that palm biomass residues, far from being an environmental liability, constitute strategic resources for low-carbon value chains. However, scaling IS initiatives requires clear public policies, economic incentives, and stronger coordination between industry, government, and academia. The study provides a structured overview of current knowledge, identifies research gaps, and outlines future directions for leveraging oil palm residues as a key input for sustainable IS.

Source: Biomass

DOI: 10.3390/biomass6010010

Authors: Dalidys Rendón-Camargo, Efrain Boom-Cárcamo, Lina Buelvas-Gutiérrez, Ana Maya-Gonzalez

Institution: Universidad Popular del Cesar

Language: English

Topic: Sustainable Industrial Ecology

Subfield: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207