Harnessing bio-waste for biomedical applications: A new horizon in sustainable healthcare

Abstract

Recent studies have focused on exploring the potential biomedical applications of compounds derived from bio-waste, responding to growing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable practices in healthcare. This review examines a wide range of bio-waste materials, including coffee extracts, banana peels, rice husks, chickpea peels, and pineapple peels, with the intention of determining their potential for use in the production of biomedical devices. The distinctive properties of these bio-waste materials are highlighted, including their antioxidative and antimicrobial characteristics, as well as their capacity to generate environmentally friendly nanoparticles. The sustainable synthesis of nanoparticles such as zinc oxide and silver facilitates the development of eco-friendly alternatives, which could be applied in various biomedical fields, including drug delivery systems, biosensors, and cancer therapy. Utilizing bio-waste not only provides an innovative avenue for advanced medical technologies but also aligns with the principles of sustainable healthcare by reducing waste and minimizing the environmental footprint of biomedical production. However, challenges remain in achieving standardization, reproducibility of outcomes, and securing necessary regulatory approvals. Future interdisciplinary collaborations should prioritize sustainability and nanotechnology to fully exploit the potential of bio-sourced materials in the biomedical sector.