Life cycle assessment with the transition from lignocellulose- to microalgae-based biofuels: A review

The main issue in our environment today is the rapid increase in greenhouse gases (GHGs), which is mainly caused by emissions from transportation and industries. Therefore, biomass-based biofuels are considered promising solutions for the reduction of GHGs owing to their carbon neutrality. This review presents an environmental impact analysis of different biofuels derived from different types of biomass. The characteristics of sustainable biodiesel are analyzed in this review. From the perspective of the existing cycle, it is important to evaluate and quantify the environmental effects of biofuel synthesis, such as biodiesel and bioethanol. The goal of this study was to foster a life cycle analysis information database for biofuels obtained from various types of biomass by utilizing the life cycle concept. The effect on climate was found to be the highest during the development stage compared to the other biomass life cycle stages. The variation in feedstock quality and contributions from various other components of life cycle assessment (LCA) cause a variation in GHG emissions, along with the use of different technologies for the conversion of biomass to biofuel. Biofuel technology development, enhanced energy efficiency and biomass agriculture management are significant measures that moderate the effects of existing biofuel patterns on the climate.