Valorization of Peanut Shell Waste: A Sustainable Lignocellulosic Resource for Circular Bioeconomy Applications

• Peanut shell waste is a lignocellulosic biomass valorized for applications in bioenergy, polymer composites, construction materials, agriculture, and environmental remediation. • Thermochemical and biochemical conversion of peanut shells enables production of biofuels, biochar, and functional carbon-based materials. • Peanut-shell-derived fillers and fibers enhance mechanical, thermal, and functional performance of polymer composites and construction materials. • Biochar derived from peanut shells improves soil fertility, crop productivity, carbon sequestration, and long-term soil stability. • Advanced processing of peanut shells yields functional materials such as activated carbon, nanocellulose, and nanocomposites for environmental and energy applications. • Integrated valorization of peanut shells supports circular bioeconomy development and sustainable waste management systems. . Interest in agro-waste valorization has increased due to the growing emphasis on circular bioeconomy and sustainable resource management on a global scale. This review explores peanut ( Arachis hypogaea L.) shell waste as a flexible, inexpensive lignocellulosic resource for creating value-added products in a variety of industries, including construction, energy recovery, polymer composites, and agriculture. Unlike previous reviews that primarily compile data, this work synthesizes existing knowledge to identify technological limitations, economic considerations, and scalability challenges associated with each valorization route. Peanut shells exhibit significant potential as reinforcing fillers in polymer systems, precursors for bioenergy and functional carbon materials, and soil-enhancing biochar, contributing simultaneously to waste management and carbon mitigation strategies. Finally, key research gaps and future development directions are proposed, positioning peanut shell waste as a versatile platform material within sustainable biorefinery and circular resource utilization frameworks. .