Mining and refining of iron ore result in prodigious quantities of Iron Ore Tailings (IOTs), necessitating urgent adoption of sustainable management practices. Depleted iron ore reserves underscore the untapped value of IOTs' iron content. To minimize waste generation and optimize resource utilization, efficient extraction of iron content from ores is imperative. Accurate identification of ore seams during or before mining mitigates gangue and waste accumulation, resulting in cost savings in material processing, refining, transportation, and disposal. Recycling IOTs from older processing lines into newer, more efficient ones presents a promising avenue for sustainable resource utilization. Available options for IOT reuse span various domains. IOTs serve as building materials (bricks, cement, concrete), providing cost-effective alternatives. Road construction, embankments, and structural fills utilize IOTs as construction materials. Additionally, IOTs demonstrate versatility in manufacturing processes, including ceramics, foam glass, and geopolymer-based materials. Applications in paints, pigments, slow-release fertilizers, and microcrystalline glass further expand the scope of IOT utilization. This study highlights the urgency of IOT reuse/recycling for environmental and economic reasons. It underscores the wealth of available reuse options, emphasizing recycling's pivotal role in sustainable resource management. Examination of these potential applications charts the course toward environmentally conscious and economically viable management of IOTs.  Article in AGU23 Website

The remediation of chromium (Cr) contaminated sites presents a complex challenge due to the hazardous nature of Cr compounds and their adverse impacts on human health and the environment. In addressing this pressing concern, the present study endeavors to contribute to the understanding of technology suitability for effective Cr-contaminated site remediation through a comprehensive Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis. Drawing upon an exhaustive review of the existing literature, this research first identifies and evaluates the strengths of various technologies commonly employed in Cr-contaminated site remediation. These strengths encompass the capacity of technologies to efficiently reduce Cr concentrations, promote sustainable remediation practices, and ensure minimal collateral damage to surrounding ecosystems. Furthermore, the analysis delves into the weaknesses of these technologies, highlighting potential limitations that may impede their optimal performance. The study then explores the opportunities that arise from implementing these technologies, including advancements in remediation processes, novel materials, and cutting-edge monitoring and assessment tools. Additionally, the research critically assesses the threats posed by the application of these technologies, encompassing potential economic, technical, and environmental challenges that may hinder their widespread adoption. By synthesizing these key findings, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the selection and deployment of appropriate remediation technologies tailored to Cr-contaminated sites. Furthermore, the SWOT analysis offers a structured framework for decision-makers, environmental practitioners, and policymakers to make informed choices concerning the most suitable technology options for site-specific circumstances. In conclusion, this research illuminates the diverse landscape of technologies available for Cr-contaminated site remediation, accentuating their respective strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. As such, this SWOT analysis serves as a vital resource in the ongoing efforts to remediate and restore Cr-contaminated sites, thereby safeguarding public health and the environment for future generations. Article in AGU23 Website

Bio-methanation offers a safe, effective, and efficient avenue for the environmentally sound disposal of urban organic waste, while concurrently facilitating the recuperation of valuable by-products. A well-maintained Bio-methanation facility with organic waste as input feed can not only help decrease the waste disposal costs, reduce the volume (and mass) of waste that needs to be processed, and create multilateral employment opportunities but also fosters the production of clean electricity and Compressed Biogas (CBG). Various programs and schemes initiated by different governments in India aim to address the imperatives of waste management and escalating energy demands. These strategic initiatives actively encourage the establishment of Bio-methanation plants (BMPs) by local communities, regional authorities, and private enterprises. Despite the recognition of its potential, the actual number of successfully operational BMPs across India remains relatively low. This dearth of success in operating and managing existing Bio-methanation facilities may emerge as a critical restraint for prospective stakeholders (owners, builders, and operators) when contemplating new plant installations. Consequently, comprehensive research is indispensable to advance energy recovery from waste and to establish standardized design parameters for BMPs. The present investigation intends to appraise the current status of select BMPs in India, conscientiously collating and presenting information pertaining to critical parameters such as size/design capacity, type of reactor, no. of stages employed, etc. Additionally, the study identifies the challenges encountered by plant operators and technology providers in their pursuit of effective plant operation, thus, presenting valuable insights for further development and optimization of the existing technologies. B02-07, Article available at AGU23 Website