Role of biomass supply chain management in sustainable bioenergy production

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe demand for bioenergy (biofuels, heat and electricity) is increasing steadily around the globe. Major policy-related interventions for adoption and promotion of bioenergy have also been realized by several countries over the past few decades. The biomass supply chain incorporates several components of bioenergy production, which in turn consist of several activities for which different alternative methods are available. Different components of the biomass supply chain include production of bioenergy feedstock (biomass), logistics of biomass, conversion of biomass to bioenergy, and distribution of bioenergy or bioenergy carriers for end use. The single largest limiting factor for the production of bioenergy is the unavailability of biomass. Dedicated, fast-growing and high-biomass-producing plantations on non-arable land and utilization of agro-industrial waste materials can overcome this problem. Holistic integration of different components of the biomass supply chain and activities involved therein along with judicious design are likely to enhance the quantum of energy return, improve the greenhouse gas balance and reduce the water footprint of the bioenergy production facility. Additionally, the emerging yet promising concept of lignocellulosic and algal biorefinery would require a careful and prudent design of the biomass supply chain to achieve one of the most attractive characteristic of bioenergy: environmental sustainability.