Biomass-related sustainability: A review of the literature and interpretive structural modeling. (15th March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Azevedo, Susana Garrido; Sequeira, Tiago; Santos, Marcelo; Mendes, Luis
• Is Part Of: Energy. Volume 171(2019)
• Page Start: 1107
• Page End: 1125
• Publication Date: 2019-03-15
• Subjects: Bioenergy -- Biomass -- Sustainability -- Countries' development; O13, O25, O35, Q23, Q42, Q43; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2019.01.068
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-5442

Abstract

Abstract: In this paper we identify a concept of countries' biomass-related sustainability through a revision of the literature and the opinion of professionals, and identify the main reasons that prevent biomass from being a major source of energy production (adversities and constraints). The Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) methodology was used for establishing the causal and hierarchical relationships among the variables linked with the adversities and constraints associated with the production of biofuel from biomass and their impact on countries' biomass-related sustainability. At the base of the concept of biomass related countries' sustainability we identify an important constraint associated with the high energy production costs, but also the necessity of supporting new investments, which will drive technological innovations in this sector and allow for an increase in efficiency. The paper presents an innovative approach to the research of biofuel production from biomass by suggesting not only a concept of countries' biomass-related sustainability but also by exploring causal and hierarchical relationships between adversities/constraints of biofuel production and impact on countries' sustainability. Highlights: We develop a new concept of biomass-based sustainability of countries. We implement an interpretive structural modeling approach. We identify government policies and market costs as essential to innovation. Economic may imply Social Sustainability. There are interdependencies between Economic and Environmental Sustainability.