Punica granatum and Citrus limetta biowaste-derived sorbents for the removal of heavy metals and organic compounds: sustainability perspectives

The occurrence of heavy metals and organic compounds in wastewater is a significant environmental concern. Citrus-based biowaste materials, specifically Punica granatum peels (PGP) and Citrus limetta peels (CLP), offer a promising solution as sorbents for the removal of such contaminants. These agricultural byproducts, typically discarded, possess inherent adsorption capabilities beneficial for wastewater treatment. PGP and CLP, abundant and eco-friendly, offer advantages such as low cost and renewability, aligning with sustainability objectives. Their porous structure facilitates efficient adsorption of pollutants, including various metals and organic compounds, from aqueous systems. This study provides insights into the significant role of PGP and CLP in addressing water pollution. The utilization of biowaste as potential sorbents not only addresses the pressing environmental issue of wastewater pollution but also aligns with the principles of the circular bioeconomy by repurposing agricultural byproducts that would otherwise be discarded, thus promoting resource efficiency and sustainability throughout the value chain.