Principles of circular valorisation of agri-food residues and wastes

Common waste hierarchies propose fixed priorities for food surplus and waste
valorisation (like ‘extraction of food components is more circular than applying
as animal feed’ or ‘applying as animal feed is more circular than applying as energy application’). However, all biomass is made up of very different components such a fiber, protein, starch and often scarce nutrients. The best application depends on the composition of the material. An application that is suitable for one biomass type may be less appropriate for another. Therefore, we propose a dedicated framework that prioritises potential applications based on composition, and efficiency of use and re-use potential. We should also consider that the most circular application may not be the best solution if the market does not exist or if other environmental issues occur.