Circular Horticultural Waste Recycling for Sustainable Mushroom Production and Bioeconomy Development

Abstract

The increasing generation of horticultural waste presents significant environmental and economic challenges while simultaneously offering valuable opportunities for resource recovery within a circular bioeconomy. Sustainable mushroom cultivation has emerged as an effective approach for converting horticultural residues into high-value food products through biological recycling processes. This review paper examines the role of circular horticultural waste recycling in promoting sustainable mushroom production and advancing bioeconomy development. The study explores the utilization of diverse horticultural wastes, including fruit and vegetable residues, pruning biomass, leaves, straw, and agro-industrial by-products, as alternative substrates for cultivating edible and medicinal mushrooms. It further discusses the biological mechanisms of lignocellulosic degradation by mushroom species and their contribution to nutrient recycling, waste valorization, and environmental sustainability. The review highlights recent advances in substrate optimization, spent mushroom substrate management, and the integration of mushroom production into circular agricultural systems. Additionally, the potential applications of spent mushroom substrate in compost production, biofertilizers, animal feed, bioenergy generation, and soil improvement are critically evaluated. Despite substantial progress, challenges related to substrate variability, contamination risks, process standardization, and economic scalability remain significant barriers to large-scale implementation. This review synthesizes current knowledge and emphasizes the importance of circular horticultural waste recycling as a sustainable strategy for enhancing mushroom production, reducing environmental pollution, and supporting the transition toward a resilient bioeconomy.