Integrated impact assessment of biomass conversion systems with the method of life cycle assessment. A comprehensive review
by Emmanouil Tziolas; Thomas Bournaris; Stefanos A. Nastis; Basil Manos
International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Management and Informatics (IJSAMI), Vol. 4, No. 2, 2018

Abstract: The formulation of bio-based industries constitutes a major goal for the generation of sustainable forms of energy globally. Nevertheless, the different bio-energy pathways depend on manifold conversion technologies and induce an assortment of environmental impacts. To this end, the evaluation tool of life cycle assessment (LCA) is thoroughly analysed for biomass exploitation systems, since it is acknowledged as the most advantageous methodological framework. Furthermore, specific critical points of LCA are identified through literature review and the four-step modular process is analysed. Moreover, a classification of 40 papers implementing LCA and biomass exploitation is conducted to investigate the direction of the scientific stimulus, as well as the fluctuation of funded projects after the bloom of relevant technological advancements. The majority of the papers assessed a complete biomass exploitation system 'from cradle to grave', while 65% describe systems in the European region. Finally, the increase of funded projects is prominent the last nine years and the number of researches regarding LCA and biomass is increasing as well.

Online publication date: Sun, 23-Sep-2018

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Management and Informatics (IJSAMI):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com