Solid and Liquid Resource Utilization for Zero-waste Agriculture

Abstract

Agriculture, in addition to sustaining human life, is a major producer of solid residues and nutrient-rich waste
materials. Mishandling of agricultural waste causes greenhouse gas emissions, contaminates water sources
(groundwater and rivers), climate change, and reduces soil fertility. On the other hand, when harnessed, they
become important inputs for circular farming. This study will discover an integrated pathway to convert
natural burdens into resource flows, analysing the challenges and opportunities of agricultural waste. The
present study will also evaluate options for biological and physicochemical treatment of solid and liquid
wastewater and discuss the technology that will reduce gaps in current adoption and policy support. In this
current study, we will critically discuss some recent field investigations, life cycle assessments, and case
studies related to composting, anaerobic digestion, and constructed wetlands. Findings indicate that while
individual technologies work well in isolation, systemic integration at farm scales remains limited, especially
for smallholder farmers. This exposes a research gap in designing modular, low-cost, and farmer-friendly
systems that manage both flows simultaneously. Future opportunities lie in combining waste assessment
with renewable energy generation, digital monitoring, and incentive-driven policies that can accelerate
adoption. AI models are used to get better results in waste management in agricultural sectors. Ultimately,
solid and liquid waste management in agriculture is not just a technical intervention but a strategic step
toward a sustainable food system – one that can reduce pollution, conserve resources, and equally improve
the rural economy.