Multisectoral Optimization of Residual Resource Valorization for the Bioeconomy

Area of Science:

• Biomass valorization
• Circular bioeconomy
• Environmental impact assessment

Background:

• Efficiently managing limited biomass and waste is crucial for circular bioeconomy planning.
• Increasingly diverse biobased technologies necessitate complex strategies for optimal resource allocation.
• High-dimensional challenges exist in identifying the best valorization pathways for residual biomass.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a scalable, multisectoral constrained optimization approach for residual biomass allocation.
• To evaluate the environmental performance of various valorization strategies under technical and demand constraints.
• To apply the approach to metropolitan France, assessing 13 biomass streams and 31 pathways.

Main Methods:

• A constrained optimization model was developed for large-scale residual biomass allocation.
• Environmental impacts were assessed across five prospective scenarios for nutrient, food, feed, power, and heat recovery.
• The model considered technical limitations and market demands for biomass utilization.

Main Results:

• Optimal strategies reduced environmental impacts by 25-60% compared to baseline biomass reuse.
• A 5-15% increase in power demand and a shift of crop residues from soil incorporation were observed.
• Valorization strategy optimization proved more sensitive to technology scope and performance than to background scenarios.

Conclusions:

• The proposed optimization approach provides actionable insights for process ecodesign and bioeconomy policy.
• Optimal residual biomass valorization is achievable and sensitive to technological advancements.
• This framework supports informed decision-making for sustainable resource management in the bioeconomy.