Fly Ash Utilization: A Step Towards Sustainable Development

Fly ash is generated as a by-product of coal combustion and recently this getting recognition as a sustainable material in various sectors. It has good richness in nutrients, thus suitable for agriculture, and in strength it is best for constructing activities. Heavy metals are found in fly ash causes challenges, particularly in concrete durability and stability, leaching risks, harmful effect on soil health, crop development and productivity, and the residues of heavy metals in agricultural systems. It is required to develop necessary regulatory frameworks and essential management strategies to rectify these issues. This review highlights the potential usage of fly ash to enhance soil health, increase crop yields, and support the rehabilitation of degraded landscapes, and it also aligning with the multiple Sustainable Developments Goals (SDGs) like SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by enhancing eco-friendly construction approaches. Moreover, it saves on carbon emissions as a medium of fly ash, thus helping SDG 13: Climate Action. More investigation is needed to track the durations of how fly ash impacts differently across sectors for understanding environmental risks as well as for advancing sustainable development.