A Methodological Framework for Assessing the Sustainability of Solid Biofuels Systems

Area of Science:

• Bioenergy and Renewable Energy
• Sustainability Science
• Environmental Policy

Background:

• Solid biofuels are crucial for Mexico's energy matrix, yet their sustainability requires robust assessment.
• Existing frameworks may lack comprehensiveness or applicability to diverse biofuel types.
• A standardized methodology is needed to evaluate the multifaceted impacts of solid biofuels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate a methodological framework for assessing the sustainability of solid biofuels in Mexico.
• To cover economic, social, environmental, and institutional dimensions of sustainability.
• To provide a flexible and interpretable tool for bioenergy analysis.

Main Methods:

• Development of a framework with 13 normalized indicators and two diagnostic studies.
• Normalization of indicators using the concept of system load capacity, akin to planetary boundaries.
• Application of the framework to three case studies: fuelwood, charcoal, and sugarcane bagasse for electricity.

Main Results:

• The framework provides a quantitative and comprehensive overview of sustainability aspects.
• Data accessibility and sensitivity are noted challenges, common to existing frameworks.
• The framework demonstrated high flexibility, applicability to traditional and modern biofuels, and ease of communication.

Conclusions:

• The developed framework is a valuable tool for assessing solid biofuel sustainability in Mexico.
• Its quantitative nature and graphical representation aid multidimensional analysis.
• The framework is adaptable and interpretable for various stakeholders in the bioenergy sector.