Dr. Pandey’s research produces useful bioactive compounds from citrus fruit waste abundantly available in Nepal – by way of green extraction and solid-state fermentation methods. Fruit and vegetable waste is a serious problem in Nepal, where it is dumped into landfills and water bodies and produces toxic greenhouse gases and health hazards. Citrus fruits make up nearly 37% of total fruit production, and      10-15% of them are wasted. By developing sustainable extraction techniques to be used on the fruits,    Dr. Pandey will produce bioactive compounds that can be utilized as key functional ingredients in nutraceuticals (food or components of food that provide medical or health benefits), preservatives, and cosmetic products, thereby reducing food waste while alleviating adverse environmental effects.