The transition toward sustainable, second-generation biorefineries critically depends on advanced enzyme biocatalysis for the efficient conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into fuels and value-added bioproducts. Recent advances in microbial systems biology, enzyme discovery, engineering, and process integration have enabled increasingly robust and selective biocatalytic systems capable of operating under industrially relevant conditions. This Special Collection aims to showcase cutting-edge research on next-generation enzymatic technologies supporting integrated lignocellulosic biorefineries, from biomass deconstruction to fraction valorization and downstream bioprocessing. Contributions addressing microbial and enzymatic systems, data-driven or functional screening for biocatalyst discovery, and scalable bioprocess integration are welcome, with an emphasis on economically viable, sustainable, and multi-product biorefinery concepts beyond single-fuel platforms.

Suggested Subtopics:

• Microbial systems biology and omics-driven discovery of lignocellulose-active biocatalysts
• Enzyme discovery and engineering for lignocellulosic biomass deconstruction
• Advanced cellulase, hemicellulase, and auxiliary enzyme systems
• Enzymatic valorization of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin fractions
• Biocatalytic upgrading of lignin-derived and sugar-based intermediates
• Enzyme performance under industrial biorefinery conditions (high solids, inhibitors, temperature, pH)
• Integrated enzymatic–microbial and hybrid bioprocesses
• Enzyme-assisted process intensification and biorefinery integration
• Enzyme recycling, immobilization, and cost-reduction strategies
• Techno-economic and life-cycle assessment of enzyme-enabled biorefineries
• Case studies and scale-up of enzyme-based lignocellulosic bioprocesses

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 7, Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 9, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 12, Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 13, Climate Action.

All submissions in this Collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief and the journal editorial board. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.

This collection aims to provide concise (max. 2,500 words), authoritative, and accessible articles that explore how natural systems inspire and inform biotechnological solutions to environmental challenges.

Primers should blend fundamental biological insights with state-of-the-art research and innovation in areas such as:

-microbial enzymes and biocatalysts

-microbial biopolymers and bio-based materials

-bioremediation and pollutant degradation

-waste valorization and circular bioeconomy systems

-bio-inspired design and living materials

-synthetic biology for sustainability

-ecosystem-inspired biotechnologies.

Authors are encouraged to discuss how nature’s strategies can guide biotechnological advances, outline recent developments and knowledge gaps, and highlight future research directions and real-world applications.

The goal of this series is to educate, inspire, and connect—bridging disciplines and generations of scientists who share a vision of a more sustainable, bio-based world. By distilling complex concepts into clear, engaging narratives, these Primers will serve as a gateway to understanding how biotechnology learns from and collaborates with nature.

We warmly invite you to contribute to “Learning from Nature: Biotechnology for the Environment” and help shape this inspiring and educational series within the journal.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.