Exposure to hydroquinone (HQ) can cause various health hazards and negative impacts on the environment. Therefore, we developed an efficient electrochemical sensor to detect and quantify HQ based on palladium nanoparticles deposited in a porous silicon-polypyrrole-carbon black nanocomposite (Pd@PSi−PPy−C)-fabricated glassy carbon electrode. The structural and morphological characteristics of the newly fabricated Pd@PSi−PPy−C nanocomposite were investigated utilizing FESEM, TEM, EDS, XPS, XRD, and FTIR spectroscopy. The exceptionally higher sensitivity of 3.0156 μAμM⁻¹ cm⁻² and a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.074 μM were achieved for this innovative electrochemical HQ sensor. Applying this novel modified electrode, we could detect wide-ranging HQ (1–450 μM) in neutral pH media. This newly fabricated HQ sensor showed satisfactory outcomes during the real sample investigations. During the analytical investigation, the Pd@PSi−PPy−C/GCE sensor demonstrated excellent reproducibility, repeatability, and stability. Hence, this work can be an effective method in developing a sensitive electrochemical sensor to detect harmful phenol derivatives for the green environment.

This review examines the vast opportunities and key challenges in renewable waste management across the Gulf region, with a particular emphasis on Saudi Arabia. As global demand for sustainable energy intensifies, driven by technological advancements and environmental concerns, the Gulf Cooperation Council nations, notably Saudi Arabia, are beginning to acknowledge the urgency of transitioning from fossil fuel reliance to renewable waste management. This review identifies the abundant renewable resources in the region and highlights progress in policy development while emphasizing the need for comprehensive frameworks and financial incentives to drive further investment and innovation. Waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies offer a promising avenue for reducing environmental degradation and bolstering energy security. With Saudi Arabia targeting the development of 3 Gigawatts of WTE capacity by 2030 as part of national sustainability initiatives, barriers such as regulatory complexities, financial constraints, and public misconceptions persist. Ultimately, this review concludes that advancing renewable waste management in the Gulf, particularly through stronger policies, stakeholders’ collaboration, investment in WTE and an enhancement in public awareness and education, is critical for achieving sustainability goals. By harnessing these opportunities, the region can take decisive steps toward achieving sustainability, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in the global fight against climate change and resource depletion.