Garvita Singh

Plastic pens, popular for their affordability and convenience have revolutionized writing and communication but their unchecked use contributes to overall plastic waste. Pens and refills are non-biodegradable since they contain several plastic and metal components, making them non-recyclable and ending up in landfills. In the present study, a data-driven survey methodology was employed, analysing student attitudes and practices regarding the use of plastic pens in everyday life. The study investigates the practice of using plastic pens among student groups in Delhi-NCR, focusing on their eco-awareness and need for the responsible waste disposal and recycling. The study assesses the significant usage of plastic pens, pollution caused due to it, and long-term impact on ecosystems and human health. Student-focused surveys on plastic pens usage can provide valuable data on consumer behaviour, environmental consciousness, educational programs, product development, legislation, behavioural change research, and marketing tactics. Understanding students' preferences, habits, and perspectives on plastic pens can benefit companies and policymakers, as they are often seen as a representative sample of the general public. The findings of the present study will contribute to existing literature, promotion of sustainable alternatives, and policy formulation for sustainable plastic pens waste management practices.

The combustion of fossil fuels constitutes a significant catalyst for climate change, resulting in the annual release of about two billion tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂). The increase in CO₂ emission is directly linked to a heightened occurrence of natural calamities and health-related issues. The substitution of fossil fuels with renewable energy sources is a fundamental approach to reduce the negative impacts caused by consumption of these nonrenewable energy resources. The utilisation of biological methodologies to produce environmentally friendly energy from renewable sources holds significant potential for the sustainable production of fuel. However, the cultivation of first- and second-generation biofuel crops presents a challenge, since they compete for limited cropland, hence constraining their overall viability. In contrast, photosynthetic microorganisms such as algae and cyanobacteria exhibit significant potential as third-generation biofuel catalysts, devoid of the limitations associated with contemporary biofuels. Cyanobacteria, a type of photosynthetic prokaryotes, exhibit significant potential for the direct conversion of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into biofuels, chemicals, and various other valuable compounds. There has been a growing interest in the concept of utilising biological processes to convert carbon dioxide into fuels and chemicals. The introduction of a limited number of heterologous genes has the potential to confer upon cyanobacteria the capability to convert particular central metabolites into a diverse range of end products. The progress in the field of synthetic biology and genetic manipulation has enabled the manipulation of cyanobacteria to synthesise compounds that are not generally produced by these organisms in their natural environment. This study focuses on recent papers that employ various methodologies to engineer cyanobacteria for the purpose of producing high-value compounds, such as biofuels.

With the aim to alleviate the increasing plastic burden and carbon footprint on Earth, the role of certain microbes that are capable of capturing and sequestering excess carbon dioxide (CO₂) generated by various anthropogenic means was studied. Cyanobacteria, which are photosynthetic prokaryotes, are promising alternative for carbon sequestration as well as biofuel and bioplastic production because of their minimal growth requirements, higher efficiency of photosynthesis and growth rates, presence of considerable amounts of lipids in thylakoid membranes, and cosmopolitan nature. These microbes could prove beneficial to future generations in achieving sustainable environmental goals. Their role in the production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) as a source of intracellular energy and carbon sink is being utilized for bioplastic production. PHAs have emerged as well-suited alternatives for conventional plastics and are a parallel competitor to petrochemical-based plastics. Although a lot of studies have been conducted where plants and crops are used as sources of energy and bioplastics, cyanobacteria have been reported to have a more efficient photosynthetic process strongly responsible for increased production with limited land input along with an acceptable cost. The biodiesel production from cyanobacteria is an unconventional choice for a sustainable future as it curtails toxic sulfur release and checks the addition of aromatic hydrocarbons having efficient oxygen content, with promising combustion potential, thus making them a better choice. Here, we aim at reporting the application of cyanobacteria for biofuel production and their competent biotechnological potential, along with achievements and constraints in its pathway toward commercial benefits. This review article also highlights the role of various cyanobacterial species that are a source of green and clean energy along with their high potential in the production of biodegradable plastics.

Due to the exploding world population, there is a tremendous increase in demand for agricultural output, which has resulted in the pressure for large-scale crop production. Therefore, chemical fertilizers are used extensively to increase the agricultural output, which has caused hazardous effects on human health, soil quality, and the environment. To combat these problems, beneficial microbes have been exploited and used as biofertilizers. It has been well documented that certain microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and cyanobacteria have plant growth promoting properties and can be safely used as alternative sources of fertilizer. These microbes when used in combination with crop residues and compost show better results in terms of crop yield and soil fertility. The chapter highlights the potential use of various types of biofertilizers in sustainable agriculture with special emphasis on their beneficial role in nutrient uptake, plant growth promotion, and protection against several plant pathogens in an eco-friendly manner.