Sustainability assessment of biobased technologies: Application of a system approach (R-6296)

This proposed PhD study aims to evaluate biobased technologies in a systemic way considering the whole value chain by involving a multi-stakeholder approach. Despite many studies on the biobased economy issues, there are no studies which have proposed a generic methodology that can be applied to different energy systems. Therefore, there is a need for the integration of environmental and social considerations with a TEA, which can enable the economic viability and sustainability of the value chain and support the development of a biobased economy. Critical parameters and risks from an environmental, technological or economic point of view can be detected in the development process and can therefore receive more attention. The method will be designed based on case studies in Belgium (both in Flanders and Wallonia, considering the different context) and Iran in a way that it will accordingly model the policy context and social considerations in the whole value chain of biobased technology development (research, development and demonstration, market formation, diffusion and commercial adaptation) in Belgium and Iran. Using a system approach, social and environmental considerations will be included in a techno-economic assessment. A generic decision support system is needed and should be used in a wide range of possible applications.

Keywords:valorization of biomass

Disciplines:Applied economics, Economic history, Macroeconomics and monetary economics, Microeconomics, Tourism