Biomass has great potential as a source for bulk products, such as lactic acid or ethanol. However, in practice, it is difficult to develop. Successful production Commissioned by the National Entrepreneurial Netherlands (RVO) Wageningen UR Food & Biobased Research has developed a method that companies and governments can assist in setting up bio-based chains, from raw material to finished product.<\/p>\n
According to senior researcher Elbersen of Food & Biobased Research, the method is intended primarily for entrepreneurs and investors who want to set up a bio-based production locally or for export to the Netherlands or other EU countries. “They often find it difficult to assess whether the creation of a biobased production or export chain feasible or how this commercial intent. This method makes it clear which factors play a role. ”<\/p>\n
The method can be seen as a roadmap for the development of a bio-based export chain. The first contains a classification of different types of biomass. According to researcher Jan van Dam Food & Biobased Research as assessing which crops and products are most suitable and how the demand is expected to develop. “Then we have described how entrepreneurs and investors to judge whether a local crop a good starting point for the development of a bio-based supply chain. Using a SWOT analysis Consider the availability of crop and infrastructure, security of supply, cost and the extent to which the material can be produced. “Sustainable<\/p>\n
Finally, the method contains a list of criteria to determine the most suitable location is to create marketable products. Conversion of raw material which country has, for example, the best infrastructure and the best trained personnel? Where are the lowest operating costs and logistics best organized? And where is the co-or by-products to bring the best value? Think of heat for district heating, CO2<\/sub> for CO2<\/sub> fertilization or lignin for new chemicals. ”<\/p>\n The method was applied in Ukraine, a country that is currently experiencing tough times, but a sizable pool of biomass feedstocks available. Van Dam: “We have since analyzed five biobased export chains, including the chain to produce polylactic acid from corn which is then used again for all kinds of bio-based plastics, fuels or chemicals. Another example is the chain to make. “From sugar beet bioethanol and biobased polyethylene<\/p>\n The analysis showed that in Ukraine, although cheaper to crops in Ukraine into biobased bulk products themselves, but that the Netherlands scores better weather factors such as demand, supply, infrastructure and logistics. Also can be created more value in the Netherlands products, as shown by the analyzes.<\/p>\nFive export chains analyzed<\/h3>\n
Informed choices<\/h3>\n