Critical evaluation of prospective biorefinery configurations to deliver a circular, climate neutral economy

Martínez-Arce, Andrés, O'Flaherty, Vincent, & Styles, David. (2026). Critical evaluation of prospective biorefinery configurations to deliver a circular, climate neutral economy. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 231, 108907. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2026.108907

Abstract

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is central to most biorefinery concepts, as an enabler of nutrient cycling and energy recovery. However, the environmental performance of AD-biorefineries remains poorly represented in many life cycle assessment (LCA) studies, owing to complex flows and indirect effects - including diversion of waste streams and multiple pathways of biogas and digestate use. Using a novel, expanded boundary LCA model (LCAD2.0), we systematically demonstrate critical factors influencing the environmental sustainability and nutrient circularity of 150 prospective AD-biorefineries. Critical factors for climate effects are methane yield, the type of energy being substituted, fugitive emissions during biogas upgrading, the counterfactual treatment of waste, and the application of carbon capture and use or storage (CCU/CCS). Critical factors for nutrient cycling include feedstock composition, digestate upcycling, and nitrogen losses during digestate storage. This study provides robust evidence to facilitate the transition towards a climate neutral, circular economy based on AD-biorefineries.

Funder

Environmental Protection Agency, Ireland
Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment., Ireland

Publisher

Elsevier

Rights

CC BY

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