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Biofuels and biorefineries: Development, application and future perspectives emphasizing the environmental and
Muhammad Kashif Shahid1, Ayesha Batool2, Ayesha Kashif3
1Research Institute of Environment & Biosystem, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
Journal of Environmental Management
|July 19, 2021
Summary
Fossil fuel use harms the environment, increasing global temperatures. Biorefineries offer a sustainable solution by converting biomass into biofuels and bio-products, supporting a circular bioeconomy and carbon-neutral energy future.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Fossil fuel combustion releases greenhouse gases, driving climate change and impacting biodiversity.
- Rising global temperatures (1.9°C increase) due to fossil fuel use necessitate urgent shifts to sustainable energy.
- Renewable energy sources are under significant stress, highlighting the need for alternatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of biorefinery operations, development, and applications.
- To discuss the economic and environmental aspects of biofuels and biorefineries.
- To explore the future perspectives and challenges of biorefineries within a circular bioeconomy framework.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of biorefinery concepts, technologies, and market trends.
- Analysis of economic and environmental impacts associated with biofuels and biorefineries.
- Examination of life cycle assessment (LCA) and circular bioeconomy principles in biorefining.
Main Results:
- Biorefineries offer a sustainable pathway for producing biofuels, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals from biomass.
- Significant market potential exists for bio-based products, with projections for high substitution of petroleum goods.
- Biorefineries contribute to a carbon-neutral energy system and support a circular bioeconomy.
Conclusions:
- Biorefineries are crucial for transitioning away from fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.
- Addressing current challenges is essential for realizing the full potential of biofuels and biorefineries.
- The integration of biorefineries into a circular bioeconomy framework is key for sustainable development.
Keywords:
BiofuelBiorefineryCircular bioeconomyEnvironmental sustainabilityLife-cycle assessmentLignocellulosic and algal biomassMore Related Videos
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