Title:
Critical Analysis of Field Data Versus LCA Results for GHG Saving Assessment through LCA of Sunflower Biodiesel Chain in Italy
Author(s):
Chiaramonti, D., Recchia, L., Nistri, R.
Document(s):
Paper
Abstract:
Based on experimental and literature agricultural data, and focusing only on the impact category “GHG emissions”, the present work aimed at studying the LCA as well as the Directive methodology applied to the sunflower biodiesel chain in 4 different Italian Regions (Veneto, Emilia Romagna, Toscana and Umbria) and analysed 16 different scenarios developed by combining maximum and minimum conditions in terms of field inputs and yields. The impact of the inputs data on LCA results was investigated, and the related environmental pressures were assessed. The LCA model was developed using the software Gemis and additional considerations were carried out comparing Gemis average figures versus typical Italian field conditions for some inputs. Results highlight that the energy demand for sunflower cultivation in Italy shows a very large variation and consequently the associated emissions range between values significantly different and also the GHG savings can vary from 31% to +58 %, and only few scenarios meet the 35 % target. These results are obtained applying the energy allocation for the coproducts; besides, using the substitution method, very different results are obtained. Finally, the impact of transport was modelled: this figure, which usually has lower weight in comparison to the agricultural phase, strongly depends on the adopted mean of transport. Summarising, the LCA methodology could reasonably aim at developing quantitative assessment of bioenergy chains only in well defined and constrained conditions, not only geographically but also in time.
Keywords:
greenhouse gases (GHG), life cycle assessment (LCA), sunflower, sustainability, biofuels
Topic:
Policies and ensuring sustainability
Subtopic:
Sustainability criteria and certification issues
Event:
18th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
VP5.2.11
Pages:
2215 - 2222
ISBN-13:
978-88-89407-56-1
ISBN-10:
88-89407-56-5
Paper DOI:
10.5071/18thEUBCE2010-VP5.2.11
Price:
FREE
