A Perspective on the Circular Economy of Advanced Biofuels

Abstract

Fossil fuels are the primary sources for fulfilling rising energy demand and have significant environmental consequences. It necessitates a shift toward renewable and sustainable energy sources. Advanced biofuels are proposed as one feasible option for replacing fossil fuels. Adding the associated benefits of emissions savings and co-products from the production process enhances the sustainability of advanced biofuels. This chapter investigates the potential of advanced biofuels under a circular economy framework to confirm whether they can decouple economic growth from rising emissions. To answer this, the potential is explored under the framework of environmental benefits, technoeconomic status, and socioeconomic development. It is concluded that advanced biofuels have substantial potential to contribute to the energy security of the transport sector under the circular economy framework. However, challenges such as high production costs and potential land-use changes must be addressed through technological advancements and sustainable practices.