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This paper first reviews the potential causality from biomass energy to CO 2 emissions and economic development within relevant literature. Later, the paper examines statistically the impacts of biomass energy consumption on CO 2 emissions and GDP in the US. To this end, paper observes environmental and economic implications of biomass fuel usage throughout energy literature and launches asymmetric causality test to confirm/disconfirm the literature output. The findings of the tests indicate that biomass energy consumption per capita mitigates CO 2 emissions per capita and increases GDP per capita. Eventually, upon its output, this research asserts that biomass energy consumption can be an efficient policy tool for environmentally sustainable development in the US, and, that, hence, biomass production technologies and biomass consumption need to be promoted in other countries as well as in the US. On the other hand, analyses underline the fact that policy makers should consider as well some potential constraints of biomass energy usage such as land use constraints and carbon leakage from biomass production. Therefore, although this paper explores the remedial impact of biomass on environment and growth, one may suggest also that further possible works consider the effects of biomass sources in detail to minimize the some worsening influence of biomass usage on climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Companies dealing with chemical products have to cope with large amounts of waste and environmental risk due to the use and production of toxic substances. Against this background, increasing attention is being paid to “green chemistry” and the translation of this concept into biobased chemicals. Given the multitude of economic, environmental and societal impacts that the production and use of biobased chemicals have on sustainability, assessment approaches need to be developed that allow for measurement and comparison of these impacts. To evaluate sustainability in the context of policy and decision-making, indicators are generally accepted means. However, sustainability indicators currently predominantly exist for low-value applications in the bioeconomy, like bioenergy and biofuels. In this paper, a review of the state-of-the-art sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals is conducted and a gap analysis is performed to identify indicator development needs. Based on the analysis, a clear hierarchy within the concept of sustainability is found where the environmental aspect dominates over economic and social indicators. All one-dimensional indicator-sets account for environmental impacts (50%), whereas two-dimensional sets complement the environmental issues with economic indicators (34%). Moreover, even the sets encompassing all three sustainability dimensions (16%) do not account for the dynamics and interlinkages between the environment, economy and society. Using results from the literature review, an indicator list is presented that captures all indicators currently used within sustainability assessment of biobased chemicals. Finally, a framework is proposed for future indicator selection using a stakeholder survey to obtain a prioritized list of sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae biofuel is one of the most promising renewable energy sources that can contribute to the replacement of fossil fuels globally because of its sustainability and its ability to reduce the carbon dioxide emission in the atmosphere. However, the rigidity of microalgae of microalgae cell wall inhibits the extraction of lipids for biofuel production. To improve microalgae biofuel production, different pre-treatment techniques have been studied to evaluate their effectiveness on microalgae cell wall disruption. The main objective of this paper is to review the different pre-treatment technologies used in biofuel production from microalgae biomass and to critically discuss the current limitations and promising perspectives towards achieving economic and industrial scale production. Pre-treatment methods reviewed are categorized into mechanical techniques (e.g. high-pressure homogenizer and bead mills), physical techniques (e.g. ultrasonic and microwave methods), thermal pre-treatment techniques (e.g. autoclave and steam explosion), chemical techniques (e.g. catalytic and enzymatic), and combined techniques. Furthermore, comparisons of these techniques are discussed. The overall effect of the applications and methods on biofuel production together with energy consumption are critically examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the long-run relationship between biomass energy production and biomass energy consumption in the United States (US), over 1993M01-2022M08. For robustness reasons, it is employed the cointegration methodology to sustain the main findings in parallel with unit root tests of biomass energy surplus/deficit. The main results evidence a long-run equilibrium between biomass energy production and biomass energy consumption in the US conditioned by structural breaks. More precisely, those breaks can severally alter biomass energy sustainability, their importance being crucial in the US's policy design in the biomass sector. Policymakers in the US should take into account the structural changes for their adjustments in the biomass energy market when no long-run equilibrium between biomass energy production and the biomass energy consumption is evidenced. Otherwise, no policy corrections are needed as the long-run equilibrium is reached based on the market self-regulation mechanism. • Biomass energy is sustainable in the US. • Biomass energy sustainability is conditioned by structural changes. • No hysteresis is observed in biomass energy surplus/deficit. • Market of biomass energy has a self-regulation mechanism under sustainability assumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Briquettes made from biomass residues could contribute to ensuring the sustainable supply of biomass energy. The paper reviews the present briquette making process in Kenya especially in Nairobi and peri-urban areas. The paper introduces the energy situation in Kenya, then the briquette making process and finally presents the challenges and opportunities in briquette making. In the opportunities section, eighteen briquette producers participated in the question and answer exercise to quantitatively provide information on briquette making. Most producers use bare hands (handmade briquettes), others make use of novel-based machines such as ram-piston type, motorized screw press, shredder, wooden press and the mold-box piston type all made from locally available materials. The mixing ratios and the various ingredients used in briquette making are haphazard with no standard ratio and specific mixture for optimum briquette production. Despite these, most briquette producers are well along in the briquette business. At the same time, the end-use consumers are very positive in using the briquette fuel as an alternative fuel. Some of the end-use consumers are the schools, churches, hotels and some households. This study indicates that the opportunities for briquette making are immense and could help curb deforestation thereby reduce environmental degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key principle in resource management is sustainability which consists of operational robustness, attenuation of environmental footprint and socio-economic considerations. Dependence on fossil fuels is unviable due to their continuous depletion all over the world and also the inexperienced greenhouse gas emissions related to their utilization. Therefore, the continuous initiatives geared towards developing various renewable and probably carbon neutral biofuels as energy resources are being taken up. Alternate energy resources such as 1st generation biofuels derived from terrestrial crops like sugarcane, sugar beet, corn and wheat place a colossal stress on global food markets, but this potential food versus fuel conflict is palliated by using sweet sorghum as a bioenergy crop. It can be processed into both biofuel and valuable co-products, thus meeting the various requirements of food, fuel and fodder. This paper mainly reviewed the technologies for bioethanol production from sweet sorghum, focussing on its potential benefits as feedstock for ethanol production over other substrates and recent advancements to enhance ethanol yield. It also reviewed the advances in pretreatment along with the novel process of ethanol production from sweet sorghum stalks, biogas production from sweet sorghum and environmental cum socio-economic aspects. No doubt, there are outstanding issues related to ethanol production and yield, still sweet sorghum derived bioethanol could progressively substitute a significant proportion of the fossil fuels required to meet the growing energy demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the Paris Agreement, China has the ambition to develop non-fossil energy which will account for 20% of the total energy consumption in 2030. China has abundant biomass potential implying the bioenergy should be an important option of non-fossil energy. In this analysis, we present an representative biogas project (the Deqingyuan project, DQY) in Beijing and conduct a cost-benefit analysis for the whole value chain. DQY is the first large-scale biogas project in China that utilizes 100% chicken manure as a feedstock and integrates biogas production with ecological agriculture using advanced technologies. DQY uses 80,000 t of chicken manure and 100,000 t of sewage each year to produce biogas, which generates 14 million KWh of power annually, and obtains an additional revenue of RMB 8 million yuan each year through the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). Operating as an example of a sustainable bioenergy model, DQY accomplishes the full use of a recycled resource while showing consideration for animal welfare during the entire production, which is a fundamental component of the new rural energy strategy. The circular economy model of DQY plays a prominent role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating pollution, and increasing employment, among other benefits. This paper aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the typical demonstration model (DQY) in utilization of agricultural waste in China, and further proposes a general development model of Chinese biogas in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncertainties in evaluating bioenergy projects have lead policymakers to adopt a restrictive approach or even refuse to evaluate projects when the available information is limited or a clear perception of its benefits and impact is lacking. Indeed, despite its potential advantages, a bioenergy system poses several conceptual and operational challenges for academic as well as practical scrutiny because the inherent relationship and the intersection of areas related to energy production and agricultural activity requires a deeply integrated assessment. The aim of this paper is to review the available works in this field and propose an approach for supporting policymakers in the taking decision process of deploying sustainable bioenergy systems. The SIByl-LACAf framework provides a comprehensive framework for addressing the inherent complexity of the subject and its sustainability and acceptability as part of the evaluation process. With this approach, different and complementary evaluation methods are reviewed and set in a logical and sequential structure to draw a group of indicators used for assessing a given project with the help of a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) matrix. When acceptability is identified as an issue, a Public Consultation and Communication (PC&C) scheme can complement this process. The suggested application for Mozambique indicate that an acceptable outcome is possible even when considering the data requirements and constraints of developing countries. Thus, the potential of this integrated approach outweighs such limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bangladesh is a small country with its large population struggled with several challenges over the last few decades, including overpopulation, power grid disruptions, floods, and global warming. Sufficient rate of energy production is must for a developing country, but quickly expanding population and overall economic growth interrupt the energy sector. Renewable energy plays a vital role to contribute in this sector. For becoming an agricultural country biomass is an important sustainable energy source for this country. Organic crop residues, animal waste, and municipal solid waste are the most accessible biomass energy sources in this country. On the other hand, by using the membrane gas separation technology the quality biogas can be improved and it helps the environment from the toxic CO 2 which is a major element of biogas. This study represents the extension, potential and innovations identified with the utilization of biomass assets. Besides the improvement of biogas also discussed in this paper. This paper also represents the various initiatives conducted by the government that are all relevant to biomass energy. This work further can be studies to innovate different biomass technology and to improve the quality of biogas. [Display omitted] • Biomass is an alternative and sustainable renewable energy source in Bangladesh. • Thermal and bio-chemical methods are widely used for changing over biomass to energy. • Government plan is to produce electricity by utilizing natural gas, liquid fuel, and peat. • Membrane gas separation technology is used to increase the quality of gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Biofuels are evolving in complex systems of interrelating environmental, economic and social issues. For this reason a number of sustainability criteria covering these issues have been developed. However, there has been little effort given to the development of a mechanism to evaluate compliance of biofuel systems with the sustainability criteria available. Grounded in the theoretical and practical insights from systems thinking and literature on indicator selection processes, this paper intends to extend the existing discussions on the sustainability of biofuels by providing a critical review of biofuels sustainability literature and providing a conceptual framework to guide thinking about measuring, monitoring and evaluating sustainability of biofuel systems. The paper focuses on the integration of social, economic and environmental issues to establish holistically the sustainability of biofuel systems. The paper established that monitoring and evaluation indicators should reflect: (i) all the processes involved in the life cycle of biofuels; (ii) interrelationships of subsystems and related impacts; (iii) different subsystem perspectives (economic, environmental, and social); and (iv) a process of continual learning, which facilitates improved functioning of the entire biofuel system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a generic approach for selecting sustainability criteria and indicators (C&I) by using a participatory methodology. Selecting appropriate C&I to assess the sustainability of projects or developments is crucial and significantly influences the assessment results. The methodology, which consists of two processes: a pre-selection of suitable C&I by the researchers and a final selection by regional bioenergy experts in a multi-stakeholder forum, was applied in a Scottish region (Tayside & Fife). The paper concludes that the methodology provides a transferable approach to systematically select C&I and to justify this selection. Furthermore, the pre-selected and final C&I for the case study can serve as a benchmark set and starting point for similar decision making situations in other regions. In order to provide a wide application potential for the bioenergy field, the case study took account of a range of scenarios and alternatives. Moreover, the identified C&I and requirements for selection from literature provide a broad application potential to assist C&I selection, as they cover the sustainability field in general, the energy sector and the bioenergy sector in particular. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This virtual special issue published in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews contains 25 high-quality selected extended papers presented at the HERAKLION 2019 7th International Conference on Sustainable Solid Waste Management held in Heraklion, Crete in Greece from 26th to June 29, 2019. The articles published in this special issue focus on recent developments in sustainable waste-to-energy systems and waste management practices and highlight the critical challenges and potential solutions. The editorial paper aims to give a brief overview of the key findings and future perspectives proposed in these 25 selected papers. It is worth noting that although the articles presented in this special issue covered a wider range of topics, they are categorized into five categories. These include the latest developments in 1) waste-to-energy technologies, 2) biofuels and bioenergy, 3) waste valorization, 4) emerging renewable and sustainable energy systems, and finally, 5) biorefineries and circular economy. • Twenty five high quality peer-reviewed papers were selected from HERAKLION 2019 Conference. • The mian theme of sustainable waste-to-energy systems catogorised into five topics. • It will support advancement of waste-to-energy technologies and circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass as one of the renewable-energy sources is both sustainable and eco- friendly. Considering the approximately 30% of wastes for agricultural products in Iran as well as the importance of processing industry in reducing wastes, biomass such as pistachio is extremely noteworthy. According to the published statistics, the area under cultivation of pistachio in Iran is currently more than 300,000 ha. Kerman Province with an area of 200,000 ha provides 67% of total Iranian pistachio so that it is the most important area of pistachio cultivation around the world. On average, there are approximately 520,400 tons of pistachio wastes per year in Iran, which is mostly related to peeling of product. Studies indicate that the fermentation and pyrolysis processes of pistachio waste produce valuable fuel. In addition, the biological digestion process can be performed on freshly harvested pistachio wastes. This paper shows that there is a considerable potential for the use of agricultural residues, especially pistachio as fuel in Iran. It was found that the production of biogas from pistachio's soft shell, and pyrolysis of pistachio's hard shell are the most effective ways to dispose of wastes, fuel production, and optimum use of them. It can produce about 256,410, 121,255, and 123,898 tons of bio-oil, char, and gas fuel from pistachio wastes by pyrolysis, respectively. Furthermore, the amount of 103.5 million cubic meters of biogas can be achieved using anaerobic fermentation. The potential of 47.6 million liters ethanol production from total pistachio waste can be predicted. The use of pistachio wastes in addition to economic benefits for investors, will have positive environmental effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofuel production stands out on an international level because of its environmentally sustainable characteristics and the potential to promote rural development in developing countries. Introducing waste cooking oil (WCO) into the biodiesel chain holds the potential to promote social inclusion in urban areas in developing countries as well. In this sense, this paper examines the opportunity for biodiesel production from WCO as a potential source for future energy supply, particularly for biodiesel, and in this case, we will analyze the Brazilian scene. Several related aspects are covered, such as the physical and chemical properties of the WCO and the biodiesel made from it. The process of production is also presented. Lastly, the potential of the supply for this chain and the potential of social inclusion in developing countries, especially in Brazil, are analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: While biofuels have currently been regarded as a good alternative for fossil fuels, there remain many debates on their impacts on human and environment. This paper tried to shed light on bio-ethanol in Brazil as one of the main producers and exporters in the world. The main question was to understand “how sustainable is bio-ethanol production in Brazil?” To answer, the political motives of producing bio-ethanol followed by its ecological and socio-economic impacts were discussed. The paper concluded that although bio-ethanol production in Brazil seems environmentally friendly, it might socio-economically be hazardous. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Lesotho''s energy profile is characterized by a predominance of traditional biomass energy to meet the energy needs of the rural households and a heavy dependence on imported petroleum for the modern economic sector needs. As a result, the country faces challenges related to unsustainable use of traditional forms of biomass and exposure to high and unstable oil import prices. There are relatively abundant renewable energy resources in the form of hydro, solar and wind. The average daily solar radiation in Lesotho varies between 4.5 and 6.5kWh/m2, with some areas in the South West averaging over 7kWh/m2/day. Under the UNDP/GEF-supported Lesotho Renewable Energy-Based Rural Electrification (LREBRE) Project, a total of 5000 solar home systems (SHS) will be installed by 2012. Since the start of the project, a total of 1537 SHS with a capacity of 65W have been installed, and an estimated 500 SHS have also been independently installed as a result of the project''s influence. This paper examines the role of PV technologies in the sustainable development process, with particular reference to UNDP/GEF-LREBRE Lesotho PV project, and the extent to which this project is impacting on the PV industry. The paper also analyses national grid electrification and energy provision in rural areas and shows that the problem of rural electrification could be tackled by conventional and non-conventional means. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a study based on the Systems Thinking and Scenario Planning (STSP) method, focusing the biodiesel production chain of Rio Grande do Sul State. The aim of the study was to identify key elements to comprehend the systemic structure of interaction among the ties of this chain. The study was held by a team of specialists over five months, including 15 meetings. Discussions were based on quantitative and qualitative data and a systemic map was constructed and refined. Based on this modeling, four different prospective scenarios were comparatively analyzed in order to propose strategic actions to promote the sustainability and competitiveness of the chain. The results were then presented to two different groups of external specialists in order to validate the conclusions drawn and the proposals. Both groups agreed with the ideas presented. The paper is constructed as follows: a brief introduction focusing on contextual elements of the biodiesel production in Brazil and in Rio Grande do Sul; some background material regarding agroindustrial production chains and an overview of the biodiesel production chain of interest; a description of the method used to perform the research; main results and discussion; and conclusions. With this paper the authors also hope to contribute to the discussion regarding competitiveness and sustainability of biofuel chains in Brazil. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Even though considerable strides have been made in the development of effective technologies for the production of different biofuels in some commercial quantities, global consumer patronage in biofuel utilisation has been discouraging. This has triggered significant inquisitions and research into different key aspects of the biofuel supply chain some of which are; techno-economic innovations targeted at reducing production cost, product marketing and packaging, and sustainable resources for biomass generation. This paper seeks to investigate biofuel marketing modalities beyond the current scope of a majority public sector industry to aid the development and promotion of biofuels to commercial and public sectors. The need for marketing in the biofuel industry is explored to identify innovative strategies, trending capacities, and key success factors to revolutionise marketing schemes with the potential to predict future trends. Scholarly positions on effective strategies using well-known marketing paradigms are discussed to suit the need of the industry. A proposal for the application of a strategic marketing framework built on sustainability precept is put forward, concluding that sustainable marketing (green and social marketing) could be used concurrently and continuously to improve growth and development through increased sales and competitive scoping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofuels are promoted in a wide-scale as a means of achieving energy security and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Biofuels derived from lignocellulosic biomass, particularly from agricultural crops are being massively supported worldwide for meeting multiple strategy objectives such as climate change mitigation, energy security and development of the rural economy. Recently, the negative implications of using food crops for fuel have been realized to possess a significant threat towards global food security and competition for arable land. In contrast, lignocellulosic biomass in the form of waste residues from agriculture, forestry and energy crop systems are geographically abundant worldwide and have the potential to support the sustainable production of liquid transportation fuels. This paper encompasses the improvement in biofuels sector in relation to revitalizing and restraining the rural economies across the globe along with the global statistics for lignocellulosic biomass availability. In addition, the socio-environmental impacts of energy and greenhouse gas emissions from biomass conversion technologies have been addressed through highlights on life-cycle assessment of several biomasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we estimated the potential of Phragmites australis as an energy source in the Vojvodina region, northern Serbia. Reed is chosen for this study due to its availability, high growth rates, carbon neutrality, characteristics that are beneficial for the sustainability of the ecosystem, and the fact that it does not violate and compete with the surfaces used for food production. Biomass of P. australis can be converted into energy by combustion, producing cellulosic ethanol and biogas. The Province of Vojvodina is a typical lowland region chracterized by intensive agriculture and reduced area with natural vegetation. It comprises cc. 27% of the country’s total population. It is an energy-deficient province. The theoretical potential of reed, as a material for the generation of electric energy could meet one quarter of electricity needs in Vojvodina. It can also contribute to the heat energy production with 6390 TJ. As a whole, the Province of Vojvodina has a great potential to produce the reed biomass. However, bioenergy production is not feasible yet, due to the high cost of biomass processing. The significance of reed was more local in character until now, taking into account its ability to purify various types of ecosystems. The use of common reed in systems for ecoremediation (e.g. constructed wetlands in Slovenia) proved to be very efficient and cost-effective. Hence, reed can be considered a potentially profitable energy source in Vojvodina, when the values that are more difficult to estimate are taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current paper is to discuss the sustainability aspect of biorefinery systems with focus on biomass supply chains, processing of biomass feedstocks in biorefinery platforms and sustainability assessment methodologies. From the stand point of sustainability, it is important to optimize the agricultural production system and minimize the related environmental impacts at the farming system level. These impacts are primarily related to agri-chemical inputs and the related undesired environmental emissions and to the repercussions from biomass production. At the same time, the biorefineries need a year-round supply of biomass and about 40–60% of the total operating cost of a typical biorefinery is related to the feedstocks chosen, and thus highlights on the careful prioritization of feedstocks mainly based on their economic and environmental loadings. Regarding the processing in biorefinery platforms, chemical composition of biomasses is important. Biomasses with higher concentrations of cellulose and hemicelluloses compared to lignin are preferred for bioethanol production in the lignocellulosic biorefinery, since the biodegradability of cellulose is higher than lignin. A green biorefinery platform enables the extraction of protein from grasses, producing an important alternative to importing protein sources for food products and animal feed, while also allowing processing of residues to deliver bioethanol. Currently, there are several approaches to integrate biorefinery platforms, which are aimed to enhance their economic and environmental sustainability. Regarding sustainability assessment, the complexities related to the material flows in a biorefinery and the delivery of alternative biobased products means dealing with multiple indicators in the decision-making process to enable comparisons of alternatives. Life Cycle Assessment is regarded as one of the most relevant tools to assess the environmental hotspots in the biomass supply chains, at processing stages and also to support in the prioritization of any specific biobased products and the alternatives delivered from biorefineries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainability is a fundamental topic to be addressed in the establishment of a market for jet biofuels in Brazil. The objective of this paper is to enhance the discussion on sustainability of biofuels, and to discuss the main gaps to meet the requirements of sustainability for four groups of feedstock: sugars and starch, oil, lignocelluloses, and wastes. Some general common conclusions can be made for all the analyzed feedstock. In the social sphere, the main positive impacts are the high potential for job creation, income generation and regional development. Regarding the gaps for compliance with sustainability requirements, the following aspects were common to all groups of feedstock: great number of laws and rules; different interpretations and lack of knowledge on how to apply some laws; certain labor laws not adapted to the rural context. The main potential positive impact generated by compliance with requirements is greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions compared to fossil fuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By extensively reviewing the current state of knowledge, this paper explores the sustainability implications of palm oil biodiesel in Southeast Asia, with a focus on Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. Both ecological and environmental vitality as well as socio-economic equity are emphasized in the authors? exploration of sustainability in the three country cases. The article observes that the main environmental sustainability considerations of palm oil biodiesel include its capacity to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, its carbon debt and its repercussions on forestry, biodiversity, and soil and water quality. Issues surrounding socio-economic sustainability encompass how palm oil biodiesel affects food security in Southeast Asia, along with the impact of palm oil production on rural livelihoods and land-tenure. The authors firstly explore the origins, drivers and current technologies surrounding palm oil biodiesel development in the region. They then present the three country cases in order to concentrate on the particular policies, challenges and opportunities that uniquely impact the sustainability of biodiesel development in each locale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Meeting future policy targets for bioenergy development worldwide poses major challenges for biomass feedstock supply chains in terms of competitiveness, reliability and sustainability. This paper reviews current knowledge on the sustainability of agricultural feedstock supply chains and emphasizes future research needs. It covers annual and perennial feedstocks, and environmental, economic and social aspects. Knowledge gaps and technological options to assess and meet sustainability criteria are reviewed from plot to landscape and global scales. Bioenergy feedstocks present a wide range of dry matter yields, agricultural input requirements and environmental impacts, depending on crop type, management practices, and soil and climate conditions. Their integration into farmers׳ cropping systems poses specific challenges in terms of environmental impacts, but also opportunities for improvements via the use of grass–legume intercropping or residues from biomass conversion processes. Taking into account the spatial distribution of bioenergy crops is paramount to assessing their environmental impacts, in particular, on biodiversity or the food versus energy competition issue. However, few modeling frameworks convey the full complexity of the underlying processes and drivers, whether economic, social or biophysical. In particular, social impacts of bioenergy projects are seldom assessed and there is no methodological consensus. The main research areas identified involve multi-crop and multi-site experiments, along with modeling, to optimize management practices and cropping systems producing bioenergy, possibly on alternative lands and under future climate changes; the design of innovative cropping systems using expert knowledge to ensure suitable integration into farmers׳ cropping systems; the collection of detailed data on the location of bioenergy crops to validate theoretical modeling frameworks and improve sustainability assessment; tackling direct and indirect effects of bioenergy development on land-use changes via coupled economic and agronomical models; investigating the effect of perennial stands on biodiversity in relation to previous land-use and landscape structure; and further developing currently-available methodologies to fully appraise the social implications of bioenergy projects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The paper assesses greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of forest bioenergy supply and utilization in Finland. Each step in the supply chains of harvesting residues (HR), small-diameter energy wood (EW) and stumps (ST) is assessed separately, with geography-related differences between Northern and Southern Finland (NF and SF) taken into consideration. Furthermore, the GHG performance of five distinct bioenergy options—(1) combined heat and power production, (2) condensing power production, (3) torrefied pellets, (4) gasification, and (5) pyrolysis oil production—is assessed and compared with that of current reference systems in Finland and also the European Union (EU) sustainability criteria. If soil carbon stock (SCS) changes and possible storage emissions are omitted, the GHG emissions deriving from the supply chain of comminuted forest biomass to plants are 2.4, 3.0, and 2.6gCO2eqMJ−1 for HR, EW, and ST in SF, respectively. In NF, the corresponding values are 2.9, 3.6, and 3.2gCO2eqMJ−1, respectively. If SCS changes and possible emissions from storage are accounted for, the emissions for HR, EW, and ST are in the ranges 9.2–49.2, 24.4–64.4, and 33.1–73.1gCO2eqMJ−1 in SF and 12.7–52.7, 29.4–69.4, and 39.5–79.5gCO2eqMJ−1 in NF. Most supply-chain GHG emissions arise from SCS changes and possible emissions from storage of comminuted biomass, both of which may involve significant uncertainty factors. In comparison to local reference systems, significant GHG savings can be achieved through energy utilization of forest biomass, but if SCS changes and, in particular, storage emissions are taken into account, fulfillment of the EU sustainability criteria is not guaranteed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: More than a century long research and development on utilization of lignocellulosic biomass for biofuels and biomaterials are still in its formative years and the main reason for this is the over-dependence on the fossil fuel reserves. Active research works in the last decades has resulted in a few industrial units to start, stumble and become the forerunners of future biorefineries. But the current system of feedstock logistics and biomass valorization has many drawbacks that make the biorefinery operations unsuccessful throughout the world. This paper discusses the important lignocellulosic feedstocks used, existing and alternate logistical practices, and the pretreatment of biomass for the biorefinery operations. It also emphasises on the importance of decentralized pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass for the centralized biorefinery operations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is highly detrimental, and its death distribution peculiarity has severely affected people's health and the operations of businesses. COVID-19 has wholly undermined the global economy, including inflicting significant damage to the ever-emerging biomass supply chain; its sustainability is disintegrating due to the coronavirus. The biomass supply chain must be sustainable and robust enough to adapt to the evolving and fluctuating risks of the market due to the coronavirus or any potential future pandemics. However, no such study has been performed so far. To address this issue, investigating how COVID-19 influences a biomass supply chain is vital. This paper presents a dynamic risk assessment methodological framework to model biomass supply chain risks due to COVID-19. Using a dynamic Bayesian network (DBN) formalism, the impacts of COVID-19 on the performance of biomass supply chain risks have been studied. The proposed model has been applied to the biomass supply chain of a U.S.-based Mahoney Environmental® company in Washington, USA. The case study results show that it would take one year to recover from the maximum damage to the biomass supply chain due to COVID-19, while full recovery would require five years. Results indicate that biomass feedstock gate availability (FGA) is 2%, due to pandemic and lockdown conditions. Due to the availability of vaccination and gradual business reopenings, this availability increases to 92% in the second year. Results also indicate that the price of fossil-based fuel will gradually increase after one year of the pandemic; however, the market prices of fossil-based fuel will not revert to pre-coronavirus conditions even after nine years. K-fold cross-validation is used to validate the DBN. Results of validation indicate a model accuracy of 95%. It is concluded that the pandemic has caused risks to the sustainability of biomass feedstock, and the current study can help develop risk mitigation strategies. • Impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on biomass supply chain is studied. • A case study of a US based biofuel company is presented. • A dynamic Bayesian network (DBN) model is developed to investigate the biomass supply chain's risk over ten years, considering pandemic and post-coronavirus situations. • The DBN model is able to predict risks and their behaviours under uncertainties. • Study identifies high preprocessing costs of biomass resource due to COVID-19. • Model validation indicates an accuracy of 95%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: India and Indonesia are privileged with abundant biomass resource potentials, 23 Giga-watt (GW) and 50GW equivalents respectively, yet both countries harvest small proportions, with fundamentally different deployed policies and articulated strategies. In this regard, this paper focuses on analyzing evolution and deployment of different policies and execution of strategies by two countries. It analyzes the effects of the biomass energy policies and executed strategies in India and Indonesia with a holistic approach. Such an approach takes the policy and strategy of the whole biomass energy sector rather than a segmented and separated sector as biofuel, biogas, biodiesel, etc. Furthermore, how they have resulted in different outcomes is also addressed. Our analysis shows that India's biomass energy policy has evolved from incremental to more radical changes, while Indonesia's policy remains incremental. India has also a relatively more unified biomass energy strategy than Indonesia. India has been more focused on technology development and deployment along with strong institutional creation, whereas Indonesia has not been able to create any biomass sector supporting strong institutions. Therefore, in terms of biomass energy utilizations, India has demonstrated better performance than Indonesia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: China, like many other countries, is promoting the development of liquid biofuel, including bioethanol and biodiesel. The Chinese government has set biofuel development targets for the coming decade and sanctioned a series of supportive policies. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of current liquid biofuel development in China, related government policies, and the potential opportunities and challenges for its future expansion. Our assessment is based on two rounds of in-depth fieldwork and a thorough literature review. The assessment shows that the prevailing concern on food security has pushed China to move from cereal-based to non-cereal-based biofuel production. Emphasis has also been put on utilizing new marginal land for feedstock production. Our assessment indicates that the targets of China''s biofuel development are cautious and feasible, but on the other hand there are still severe challenges for the sustainability of such development. A better understanding of China''s experience in striking a balance between energy security, food security and environmental protection would inform the debates across country boundaries and contribute to the efforts for global sustainability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Biofuel energy as an alternative and additive form of energy to fossil fuel has gained much attention in recent times. In order to sustain such a vision, a robust supply chain is of extreme importance in helping to deliver competitive biofuel to the end user markets. In this paper, firstly, an introduction of the evolution of biofuels and the general structure of the biofuel supply chain are presented. Secondly, the three types of decision making levels and uncertainties that are inherent within the biofuel supply chain are discussed. Thirdly, important methodologies for modeling uncertainties in the decision making process are provided. Fourthly, sustainability concepts and models that give perspectives to the social, economical and environmental concepts are reviewed. Finally, conclusions and future research based on incorporating uncertainties and sustainability concepts within the biofuel supply chain are drawn and suggested, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Today, sustainability is the buzzword in the developmental parlance. This has brought the issue of availability and utilization of energy into sharp focus. There is an urgent need to find viable alternative to fossils, mainly petroleum. It not only provides the major share of our present energy needs but also feeds the organic chemicals industry with vital raw materials. Among many alternative energy sources being explored biomass is the only one that has the potential for such dual application. Comprehensive yet judicious exploitation of biomass is, therefore crucial. The emerging concept of biorefineries is important in this context which advocates multiprocess and multiproduct biomass based industries. But everything green need not always be clean and sustainable as populism often makes it to be. Needless to say, the choices of feedstocks, processes as well as product mix are many. There is a need to critically examine them. This paper presents a status review of biorefineries from the stand point of feedstocks, products and processes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The combined effects of climate change, the continued volatility of fuel prices, the recent food crisis and global economic turbulence have triggered a sense of urgency among policymakers, industries and development practitioners to find sustainable and viable solutions in the area of biofuels. This sense of urgency is reflected in the rapid expansion of global biofuels production and markets over the past few years. Biofuels development offers developing countries some prospect of self-reliant energy supplies at national and local levels, with potential economic, ecological, social, and security benefits. Forty-two African countries are net oil importers. This makes them particularly vulnerable to volatility in global fuel prices and dependent on foreign exchange to cover their domestic energy needs. The goal therefore is to reduce the high dependence on imported petroleum by developing domestic, renewable energy. But can this objective be achieved while leaving a minimal social and environmental footprint? A fundamental question is if biofuels can be produced with consideration of social, economic and environmental factors without setting unrealistic expectation for an evolving renewable energy industry that holds such great promise. The overall performance of different biofuels in reducing non-renewable energy use and greenhouse gas emissions varies when considering the entire lifecycle from production through to use. The net performance depends on the type of feedstock, the production process and the amount of non-renewable energy needed. This paper presents an overview of the development of biofuels in Africa, and highlights country-specific economic, environmental and social issues. It proposes a combination framework of policy incentives as a function of technology maturity, discusses practices, processes and technologies that can improve efficiency, lower energy and water demand, and further reduce the social and environmental footprint of biofuels production thereby contributing to sustainable development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Environmental impacts associated with the use of fossil fuels, rising prices, potential limitations in supply and concerns about regional and national security are driving the development and use of biomass for bioenergy, biofuels and bioproducts. However, the use of biomass does not automatically imply that its production, conversion and use are sustainable. Conflicts between various ecosystem services (economic production of food, fodder and fuels, biodiversity, social and cultural values, etc.) that are provided by fertile land are increasing as well. Hence, a developed thinking on how to balance between these services is desirable. There is a significant amount of information available on biofuels and their sustainability. In this paper, different initiatives and sustainability criteria for biofuels are presented and assessed. 35 criteria were found in emerging sustainability assessment frameworks. The majority of 12 criteria were focused on environmental issues, 4 were social and only 1 was economic. Energy balance and greenhouse gas balance were perceived as especially critical, social criteria ranked generally low. Although being perceived as important, food security ranked very low. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents an overview of 67 ongoing certification initiatives to safeguard the sustainability of bioenergy. Most recent initiatives are focused on the sustainability of liquid biofuels. Content-wise, most of these initiatives have mainly included environmental principles. Despite serious concerns in various parts of the world on the socio-economic impacts of bioenergy production, these are generally not included in existing bioenergy initiatives. At the same time, the overview shows a strong proliferation of standards. The overview shows that certification has the potential to influence direct, local impacts related to environmental and social effects of direct bioenergy production. Key recommendations to come to an efficient certification system include the need for further harmonization, availability of reliable data and linking indicators on a micro, meso and macro levels. Considering the multiple spatial scales, certification should be combined with additional measurements and tools on a regional, national and international level. The role of bioenergy production on indirect land use change (ILUC) is still very uncertain and current initiatives have rarely captured impacts from ILUC in their standards. Addressing unwanted LUC requires first of all sustainable land use production and good governance, regardless of the end-use of the product. It is therefore recommended to extend measures to mitigate impacts from LUC to other lands and feedstock. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Renewable energy encompasses a broad range of energy resources. Bangladesh is known to have a good potential for renewable energy, but so far no systematic study has been done to quantify this potential for power generation. This paper estimates the potential of renewable energy resources for power generation in Bangladesh from the viewpoint of different promising available technologies. Estimation of the potential of solar energy in Bangladesh is done using a GIS-based GeoSpatial Toolkit (GsT), Hybrid System Optimization Model for Electric Renewables (HOMER) model and NASA Surface Meteorology and Solar Energy (SSE) solar radiation data. The potential of wind energy is estimated by developing a Bangladesh wind map using NASA SSE wind data and HOMER model. A review of country''s biomass and hydro potential for electricity generation is presented. The technical potential of gird-connected solar PV is estimated at 50,174MW. Assuming that 1000h per year of full power is the feasible threshold for the exploitation of wind energy, the areas that satisfy this condition in the country would be sufficient for the installation of 4614MW of wind power. The potential of biomass-based and small hydro power plants is estimated at 566 and 125MW, respectively. The renewable energy resources cannot serve as alternative to conventional energy resources, yet they may serve to supplement the long-term energy needs of Bangladesh to a significant level. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present paper applies and adapts the methodology of integrated assessment focus groups (IA-FGs) in order to understand and analyse the enhancing factors, as well as the constraints which drive or limit the take-off and development of sustainable forest biomass energy systems in a selected large forested area of the Mediterranean basin. Our study provides both quantitative and qualitative data from Catalonia, Northeast Spain. We provide historical trends in forest expansion; an assessment of technological, socio-economic and ecological options of forest management; and plausible scenarios of its future evolution. Results show that while the opportunities and stakes are high, in Mediterranean countries, specific socio-ecologic factors need to be taken into account if forest biomass is to contribute decisively to securing renewable sources of energy in Europe, integrating landscape planning with resource policies or mitigating climate change. Among these key factors identified are property regimes, low productivity of Mediterranean forests and weak institutional capacity. Other elements such as logistics and supply difficulties and the lack of economic profitability of forest products constitute limitations identified in the implementation of bioenergy systems. Technological solutions alone, while important, are insufficient to ensure a prominent role of Southern Europe forest biomass management in the climate, landscape and sustainability energy policy challenge. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]