Scientific Research as a Path to the Circular Economy: Reuse of Rice Husk Ash Residue
摘要
Higher education institutions play a fundamental role in conducting research and scientific projects related to the circular economy, seeking innovative and sustainable solutions for managing waste from their own academic units and surrounding industries. A promising example is the reuse of rice husk ash, an abundant byproduct of the rice industry, which can represent both an environmental challenge and an opportunity for sustainable innovation. In the state of Santa Catarina, where rice production is substantial, the quantity of rice husk ash is particularly notable. Exploring alternative applications for this waste can not only mitigate environmental impacts but also create revenue and employment opportunities, thus contributing to the circularity of the economy. Furthermore, this approach strongly aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 of the 2030 Agenda, which aims to ensure sustainable production and consumption patterns. In this context, the SUSTENTARE research group from the Higher Education Institution, which seeks through research a mechanism to contribute to the solution of local problems, proposed for this study the use of rice husk ash as a source of amorphous silica for the production of cellular ceramics that contribute to the development of sustainable innovations.