An IEA Inter-Task report on Synergies for bioenergy supply chain in Bioeconomy networks describes efforts to expand the current linear value chain perspective into a broader network-based view of bioenergy and bioeconomy systems.
The report introduces a framework to help identify and leverage synergies between bioenergy supply chains, biobased materials and nutrient services. Key factors include:
- Recognising integration opportunities
- Assessing resource flows holistically
- Evaluating system integration impacts
- Expanding system boundaries in socio-environmental-techno-economic evaluations
- Adopting nature as a model
The report was produced as part of the Bioeconomy Synergies (BioSyn) Initiative led by Task 40 Deployment of biogenic value chains and carbon management. The authors hope that development of a unified framework for evaluation of integration dynamics will help to highlight the complex benefits of advanced bioeconomy sectors and biorefinery processes for policymakers and economic stakeholders.
EBNet has a strong interest in the linkages between bioenergy and the bioeconomy, and the multiple benefits arising from these.
Dr Yue Zhang, co-Lead of the Anaerobic Fermentation WG, said “Mixed culture anaerobic fermentation sits well with this report due to its use of robust microbial communities to convert unavoidable waste streams  – especially residues from food processing and biorefinery wastes for platform chemical production and plant nutrient recovery”. Prof Jhuma Sadhukhan, who leads EBNet’s PISA WG and heads up the UK side of the Global Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts (GCSB), said: “Bioenergy in the form of combined heat and power from residual biomass is essential for techno-economically viable biorefineries co-producing high-value bio-based products for a sustainable bioeconomy, as onsite bioenergy generation reduces costly external energy demands”.
For more information and to download the IEA report, see: Synergies for bioenergy supply chains in bioeconomy networks – IEA Bioenergy
