Recent Advances towards Green Ceramics in Developing Countries

Abstract

The ceramics industry is a critical sector for economic development in developing countries, yet it remains one of the most energy-intensive and environmentally burdensome manufacturing domains globally. This review examines recent advances (2020–2025) in green ceramics research and practice specifically relevant to developing nations across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Key thematic areas include the incorporation of agricultural and industrial waste materials—such as rice husk ash, fly ash, sugarcane bagasse ash, and ceramic production waste—as sustainable substitutes for virgin raw materials in ceramic formulations. The paper evaluates innovations in low-energy processing technologies, including geopolymer-based ceramics and alkali-activated materials that eliminate or significantly reduce high-temperature firing requirements. Life cycle assessment studies from countries such as India, Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria are synthesised to quantify the environmental benefits of these approaches, including reductions in CO2 emissions, energy consumption, and landfill waste. Policy frameworks, economic barriers, and technology transfer challenges that shape the adoption of green ceramics in resource-constrained settings are also critically assessed. The review concludes that developing countries possess unique advantages—abundant agricultural residues, growing construction demand, and opportunities for technological leapfrogging—that position them to lead a global transition toward sustainable ceramic manufacturing, provided that supportive institutional mechanisms and international collaboration are strengthened.