The Biodiesel Dilemma: A Techno- and Socioeconomic Review of EU Legislative Actions - Abstract
In terms of production capacities and economical relevance biodiesel is the most important transportation biofuel. In contrast to other biofuel options, biodiesel processes have recently experienced little technology development. The industrial standard is still the conversion of edible plant oils to fatty acids methyl ester (FAME) biodiesel. The use of edible plant oils, such as rape-seed and palm oil as feedstocks in these biodiesel processes results in a fierce food versus fuel debate and is associated with enhanced loss of arable land, water resources and biodiversity. Further, CO2emission profiles of the current processing technologies have not improved over the last decade. To counteract these developments governments have passed legislative measures to improve the sustainability of biodiesel production. Since the European Union (EU) is one of the largest global free trading zones and regards itself a leader in renewable technologies, this report focuses on the effects of EU legislative measures on bio-oil feedstock and conversion technology selection. Further, the effects on the current FAME biodiesel market and the global socio-economic impacts are discussed. The technology outlook presents emerging technologies that could significantly improve the sustainability of biodiesel production.