Sustainable valorization of <scp> <i>Madhuca longifolia</i> </scp> flowers: A green approach to <scp>MgO</scp> nanoparticle synthesis and bioethanol production with <scp>LCA</scp> insights

Abstract Madhuca longifolia (Mahua) is a notable non‐timber forest product (NTFP) in India, demonstrating remarkable phytochemistry and significant potential for the generation of bioethanol. This study examines the environmental impacts associated with MgO synthesis and biomass utilization via a dual‐step process: (1) the green synthesis of MgO nanoparticles (nps) using Mahua flower extracts and (2) the production of bioethanol from the spent floral biomass. The cradle‐to‐gate life cycle assessment indicated a global warming potential of 11.90 kg CO 2 equivalent for Step 1 of the green synthesis of MgO nps relative to conventional chemical methods, thus supporting its green attributes. Step 2 demonstrated the conversion of spent flowers with spent sugars (≈32%) into bioethanol, resulting in a yield of ≈50% compared to fresh flowers. The research highlights the principles of reduction, reuse, and recycling by converting waste into valuable bioethanol and potential soil amendments, thereby supporting a circular economy framework. This study illustrates the dual use of Mahua flowers as a renewable resource for the synthesis of nps and the production of bioethanol, while offering insights into the efficient utilization of biomass aligning with sustainability objectives.