Industrial Waste Valorization, Circular Economy, and Heavy Metal Bioremediation: A Multi-Sectoral Review
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Industrial expansion, rapid urban growth, and resource extraction across developing economies generate complex, hazardous waste streams that threaten ecological integrity, soil quality, water security, and human health. Concurrently, global imperatives toward zero-waste futures necessitate a paradigm shift from linear resource consumption to closed-loop circular economy models. This systematic review synthesizes multi- sectoral empirical research published across twelve issues of the British Journal of Contemporary Research (BJCR) and the British Journal of Academic Research (BJAR). We evaluate high-value waste valorization technologies, including the upcycling of ceramic kiln room scraps into structural refractory kiln props, the formulation of zero-VOC acrylic emulsion paints from indigenous calcined clays and calcium carbonate, and the synthesis of high-surface-area activated carbon from agricultural biomass (sawdust, rice husk). Furthermore, we analyze adsorption thermodynamics and sorption kinetics of natural clay minerals, specifically Fika bentonite clay, demonstrating exceptional removal efficiencies for synthetic dyes (Methylene Blue, Methyl Orange) and toxic heavy metals (Pb2+, Cd2+, Cr6+) via pseudo-second-order kinetic chemisorption mechanisms. The review investigates green extraction protocols for critical mineral recovery, specifically lithium from hard-rock pegmatite ores using low-temperature hydrometallurgical leaching, and evaluates municipal solid waste management systems (ISWMS) in urban centers like FCT Abuja. Toxicological profiling reveals severe carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health hazards (Target Hazard Quotient THQ > 1.0, Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk ILCR > 10^-4) resulting from heavy metal bioaccumulation in local food chains (fruits, vegetables, aquatic biota). Finally, we propose a multi-sectoral technological, regulatory, and socio-cultural roadmap—incorporating Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Zero-Liquid Discharge (ZLD), and eco-spirituality stewardship—to operationalize circular economy objectives in emerging markets. Keywords: Circular Economy, Industrial Waste Valorization, Heavy Metal Bioremediation, Bentonite Clay Adsorption, Kiln Waste Refractories, Eco-Friendly Paints, Cancer Risk Assessment, Lithium Hydrometallurgy, ISWMS Governance
Author: Kumar, Dr Karthik
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225658331