Second‐generation biofuels and local bioenergy systems

TLDR

First‑generation biofuels are limited in volume, while second‑generation biofuels from residues and waste promise lower emissions and higher efficiency but require sustainable local bioenergy systems. This study aims to identify second‑generation biofuel feedstock. The authors review technologies for producing second‑generation biofuels and analyze the trade‑off between developing local bioenergy systems and sustainable use of these fuels. Locally produced second‑generation biofuels can be optimized by using local biomass for both production and consumption. © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract

Abstract First‐generation biofuels, mainly from corn and other food‐based crops are being used as a direct substitute for fossil fuels in transport. However, they are available in limited volumes that do not make them serious replacements for petroleum. Second‐generation biofuels from forest and crop residues, energy crops and municipal and construction waste, will arguably reduce net carbon emission, increase energy effi ciency and reduce energy dependency, potentially overcoming the limitations of fi rst‐generation biofuels. Nevertheless, implementation of second‐generation biofuels technology will require a sustainable management of energy, or development of local bioenergy systems. This study aims at identifying second‐generation biofuel feedstock. It also provides information on the available technologies to produce second‐generation biofuels. Finally it discusses the development of local bioenergy systems vs sustainable use of second‐generation biofuels. Locally produced second‐generation biofuels will exploit local biomass to optimize their production and consumption. © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd