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Life-cycle water footprint analysis of Bama's biomass fuel in Guangxi combined with environment and economy assessment

  • 0College of Mechanical Engineering, Guangxi University, University Road 100, Xixiangtang District, Nanning City 530004, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Resources Processing and Process Intensification Technology, Nanning City 530004, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Efficient and Clean Energy Utilization, Guangzhou City 510640, China.
The Science of the Total Environment +

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September 22, 2024

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September 22, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Cassava and sugarcane straw are optimal biomass feedstocks for bio-ethanol, offering the lowest life-cycle water footprint. Hemp straw presents the highest water footprint and water pressure, indicating less sustainable bio-fuel production.

Area Of Science

  • Agricultural Science
  • Environmental Science
  • Bioenergy

Background

  • Biomass fuel production significantly impacts water resources.
  • Assessing the life-cycle water footprint (WF) is crucial for sustainable bio-energy development.
  • Understanding crop water usage and economic viability guides regional agricultural planning.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To analyze the life-cycle water footprint (WF) of five crops (hemp, corn, soybean, sugarcane, cassava) for bio-ethanol production in Bama.
  • To evaluate the environmental and economic performance of different biomass feedstocks.
  • To provide guidance for optimizing biomass fuel production and water resource management.

Main Methods

  • Utilized the CROPWAT 8.0 model to calculate the life-cycle WF for bio-ethanol conversion.
  • Integrated environmental and economic assessments for comparative analysis.
  • Analyzed crop water consumption and economic output value per unit area.

Main Results

  • Cassava and sugarcane straw exhibited the lowest life-cycle WF (93–1732 m³/t), identifying them as superior feedstocks.
  • Hemp straw demonstrated the highest life-cycle WF (40066–52,895 m³/t) and water pressure (K=0.32).
  • Sugarcane provided the highest economic output value per unit area, significantly outperforming corn, while corn had the highest annual water consumption.

Conclusions

  • Cassava and sugarcane are recommended for bio-ethanol production in Bama due to their favorable water footprint and economic benefits.
  • Hemp cultivation for bio-ethanol is not recommended due to its substantial water footprint and associated water stress.
  • Findings support informed decision-making for sustainable agriculture and water resource management in the region.

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