Review on floral waste utilization: A sustainable and ecofriendly approach

Abstract:

In India, an estimated 108,000 temples and mosques generate a substantial amount of floral waste daily, with approximately 8 million tons annually ending up in landfills or polluting water bodies. This often-overlooked issue, exacerbated by numerous festivals throughout the year, leads to foul odors and significant environmental harm due to the highly biodegradable nature of flowers. Cities with high concentrations of temples experience a tenfold increase in such waste. However, this floral waste, rich in nutrients and lignocellulosic materials, presents a valuable resource. It can be repurposed for Compost making, Biofuel and biogas generation, Extraction of dyes and essential oils, roduction of eco-friendly products like Holi colors, incense sticks, soaps, and handmade paper, Art and craft applications by transforming this waste, India can mitigate pollution and promote a more sustainable environment. In this paper, we have reviewed the ways by which flower waste can be utilized, managed to get valuable products and thus conserving the environment are explained.