GREEN-SYNTHESIZED NANOCOMPOSITES FOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT AND ENERGY APPLICATIONS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Rapid industrialization, population growth, and inadequate wastewater management have intensified environmental pollution and energy challenges in Pakistan. Conventional wastewater treatment technologies are often inefficient, costly, and environmentally unsustainable, while fossil fuel–based energy systems contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. In this context, green-synthesized nanocomposites have emerged as a promising class of multifunctional materials for addressing both wastewater remediation and renewable energy applications. This study critically analyzed recent literature on green nanocomposites synthesized using plant extracts and agricultural biomass, focusing on their physicochemical properties, environmental applications, and energy-related performance. The findings revealed that metal oxide-based nanocomposites (ZnO, TiO₂, Fe₃O₄) and carbon-based composites exhibit high efficiency in removing dyes, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants, with removal efficiencies reaching up to 99% under optimized conditions. Additionally, biomass-derived nanocomposites demonstrated strong potential in energy storage systems, including supercapacitors and solar energy conversion applications. However, the analysis highlighted a significant gap between laboratory-scale research and industrial implementation in Pakistan, along with limited commercialization, weak regulatory frameworks, and insufficient pilot-scale studies. The study concludes that integrating green nanotechnology with waste valorization strategies can provide sustainable solutions for environmental remediation and energy production in Pakistan. Strengthening research–industry collaboration and policy support is essential for large-scale adoption of these technologies.