| Abstract |
The rapid urbanization of modern societies has presented cities with numerous challenges, including the effective management of waste streams. In response, the concept of smart cities has emerged, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to address these complexities sustainably. This chapter explores the integration of bioelectronics, an interdisciplinary field combining principles from biology and electronics, into waste treatment systems tailored for smart cities. The chapter begins by introducing the fundamental concepts and principles underlying bioelectronics, including biosensors, biofuel cells, neural implants, and wearable health monitors. It then delves into the challenges faced by conventional centralized waste treatment systems, such as inefficiency, resource depletion, and environmental pollution, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. The integration of bioelectronic devices like microbial fuel cells, biosensors, and bioreactors into waste treatment systems is proposed as a transformative solution, offering real-time monitoring, precise control, and enhanced pollutant degradation capabilities. Case studies and examples are provided to demonstrate the efficacy of these technologies in wastewater treatment, pollutant detection, and environmental risk mitigation. While acknowledging the potential benefits, the chapter also addresses the challenges associated with the integration of bioelectronics into waste treatment systems, including scalability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance. Strategies for overcoming these challenges, such as interdisciplinary collaboration, technological innovation, and policy support, are discussed. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the transformative potential of bioelectronics in revolutionizing waste treatment systems for smart cities, enabling increased efficiency, sustainability, and resilience, while promoting circular economy principles and environmental stewardship. © 2024, IGI Global. |
