Valorization of mineral by-products through soil remineralization enhances sustainable agriculture and circular economy outcomes

Soil remineralization using rock powders derived from mining and industrial by-products has gained attention as a sustainable strategy to restore degraded soils, improve fertility, and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers. These materials, rich in nutrients and beneficial minerals, also offer potential for carbon sequestration and contribute to circular economy practices by repurpose byproducts into agricultural inputs. This review aims to critically synthesize the current state of research on rock powder applications in agriculture, with a particular focus on their agronomic potential, environmental implications, and alignment with circular economy principles. A scientific literature review of 142 articles published between 2014 and 2024 was conducted using Scopus-indexed literature. Findings reveal that Brazil, China, and Colombia lead global research efforts, with basalt, phonolite, and other silicate rocks being the most frequently studied materials. Key benefits include increased nutrient availability of potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and phosphorus (P), improved cation exchange capacity (CEC), and enhanced microbial activity. However, limitations persist, such as slow nutrient release, high energy demands for grinding, logistical constraints, and risks of trace metal accumulation in soils. By integrating both quantitative trends and critical thematic analysis, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the opportunities and challenges associated with rock powder use. It highlights the need for region-specific strategies, long-term field trials, and regulatory frameworks to support broader adoption. The contribution of this review lies in framing soil remineralization not only as an agronomic practice but as a circular, regenerative approach to sustainable land and resource management.