Abstract
The utilization of agricultural prunings as renewable energy sources requires effective and efficient logistics systems. The objective of this paper was to map out logistics activities along the agricultural pruning-to-energy (PtE) value chains. It describes the logistics performances based on the existing and potential pruning biomass supply chains focusing on prunings from fruit tree, vineyards, olive groove, and up-rooted tree branches. A logistics audit analysis approach has been used for detailed assessment of logistics performances. The analysis was based mainly on primary data gathered using a structured data survey format targeting the existing and potential PtE initiatives in Spain, Germany, Denmark, France, and Poland. The analysis considered the major stages of the chain, such as pruning, harvesting, processing (e.g., baling and chipping), storage, transport, and the linkage between the different stages. The paper identified the constraints along the logistics chain and recommended appropriate interventions to promote the marketing of agricultural pruning focusing on the supply of quality bales and chips for renewable energy production, and to increase the sustainability of renewable energy generation from PtE initiatives. The study has indicated that there are economic, social, and environmental benefits of PtE initiatives, as well as opportunities to increase the implementation and sustainability of the system.
Highlights
Biomass is one of the renewable energy sources being promoted globally [1,2], as fossil fuels are associated with problems
There are two major problems clearly observable concerning the fossil fuels in the world, namely: (i) fossil fuel reserves are limited resources and spread over a small number of countries, and (ii) fossil fuels are associated with high greenhouse gas emissions
Value chain was done by conducting a literature-based description of the basic characteristics of the biomass supply chain; developing the logistics audit criteria; and conducting a logistics audit analysis to evaluate the performance of the PtE initiatives
Summary
Biomass is one of the renewable energy sources being promoted globally [1,2], as fossil fuels are associated with problems. The development of renewable energy sources is important in order to enhance the global energy systems. Within the EU-28 countries, the quantity of renewable energy produced increased by 73.1% over a decade, from 2004 to 2014 [3]. In 2014, about 196 million tons of oil equivalent were produced as a primary production of renewable energy within the EU-28. Solid biofuels and renewable waste have been considered as the most important renewable energy source in the EU-28, accounting for about two thirds (63.1%) of the primary renewables production in 2014, followed by hydropower with
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