Conifers valorization applications and their role in circular bioeconomy and sustainable development goals

With the emergence of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the concept of a circular bioeconomy, researchers, industries, and governmental and non-governmental organizations have increasingly focused on plant-based products. Conifers continue to play a critical role in global forestry. This review thoroughly addresses diverse applications of products based on or derived from conifers, such as metallic and carbon-based nanomaterials, essential oils, functional foods and feeds, and health-promoting substances. The current review also discusses various safety parameters associated with their use. The studies showed that all developed products aligned with many SDGs, particularly those related to human health, agriculture, water quality, energy demand, and industrial-scale innovation within a circular bioeconomy. In addition, conifer toxicity was mainly dose-dependent.