From waste to rhamnolipid biosurfactant production using sugar industry waste in circular bioeconomy frameworks

The present review critically assesses the microbial conversion of sugarcane bagasse (SCB), an agro-industrial waste for rhamnolipid (RL) biosurfactant production within a framework of innovative technology for sustainable development. Accumulation of sugarcane bagasse (SCB) in environment poses a serious threat and challenges associated with waste and air quality management; but its valorization through microbial conversion provides a resource-efficient innovative approach fostering waste minimization. Rhamnolipids (RLs) are predominantly synthesized by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and are low in toxicity and biodegradable with implications in cosmetics, agriculture, food industry, enhanced oil recovery and bioremediation. Regardless of their benefits, large-scale production is confined by high costs, low rhamnolipids (RLs) yields, highly integrated downstream processes and regulatory challenges. Utilizing lignocellulosic feedstocks particularly sugarcane bagasse (SCB) could considerably reduce production costs and improve sustainability. This review aligns with SDG 12 on responsible consumption and production of RLs through waste-to-value bioconversion, and at the same time SDG 9 on fostering sustainable industrial innovation and the development of bio-based technologies. Further, the review highlights the integration of techno-economic assessment (TEA) and life cycle assessment (LCA) to ensure process transparency, validate circular bio-economy claims, and environmental impact.