By Ayo Onikoyi

As electronic waste (e-waste) continues to rise globally, experts are searching for innovative ways to manage its environmental impact.

Ms. Abdulraheem Azeezat Faderera, a PhD student at Mississippi State University specializing in analytical and environmental chemistry, is at the forefront of sustainable solutions for resource recovery. While her current research focuses on soil and water remediation, her future aspirations extend to transforming e-waste into valuable resources using eco-friendly techniques.

With a strong academic background, including a Master of Science in Chemistry from Mississippi State University and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, Ms. Azeezat has dedicated years to studying sustainable materials. Her work in soil and water remediation primarily involves designing biochar-based solutions to tackle pollution. By focusing on heavy metal immobilization and adsorption capacities, she aims to improve environmental health and prevent contamination from spreading through the food chain.

Despite her deep engagement in water and soil remediation, Ms. Azeezat’s vision extends beyond her current research. She is now pioneering a new endeavor in e-waste recycling, a field that is gaining significant attention due to the rapid increase in discarded electronic devices. Her work aims to extract valuable metals and components from e-waste using environmentally conscious methods, particularly through modified biochar.

E-waste contains precious metals such as gold, silver, and palladium, alongside hazardous materials that pose environmental threats. Ms Azeezat’s research seeks to develop sustainable extraction techniques that minimize toxic waste while promoting circular economy principles. By repurposing electronic components, her work contributes to reducing the dependency on virgin mining and mitigating harmful disposal practices.

Her journey into sustainable chemistry began with her early research at the University of Lagos, where she explored corrosion inhibitors derived from natural extracts. She later expanded her expertise through research assistant roles, laboratory internships, and advanced studies in material characterization. Her experience with techniques such as Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDX) has been instrumental in refining her current methodologies.

Beyond her academic and research roles, Ms. Azeezat has actively participated in global scientific discussions. She has presented her findings at major conferences, including the Southeastern Regional Meeting of the American Chemical Society and the Mississippi State University Graduate student symposium. These platforms have allowed her to share insights on sustainable remediation and broaden her network within the scientific community.

Her contributions extend to mentoring and teaching, as she has served as a graduate teaching assistant and research tutor at Mississippi State University. She has guided undergraduate researchers in analytical techniques, laboratory safety, and data interpretation, fostering the next generation of environmental scientists.

Recognizing the pressing need for sustainable waste management solutions, Ms. Azeezat envisions her work in e-waste recovery evolving into large-scale industrial applications. She aims to collaborate with environmental agencies, technology firms, and policymakers to integrate her research into mainstream recycling practices. “Incorporating green chemistry into e- waste recovery can revolutionize how we handle electronic waste globally,” she explains. “By turning waste into resources, we not only reduce environmental pollution but also create economic opportunities.”

Her efforts have already earned recognition, with scholarships and awards highlighting her dedication to scientific excellence. As a member of the American Chemical Society and the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers, she continues to advocate for sustainable innovation.

Looking ahead, Ms. Azeezat plans to expand her research beyond the laboratory, seeking real- world applications for her biochar-based e-waste solutions. She envisions collaborating with industries to develop scalable technologies that support a sustainable future.

As the demand for electronic devices rises, so does the urgency to manage e-waste responsibly. Through her groundbreaking research and commitment to environmental stewardship, Ms. Azeezat is paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable planet.