The operational environment of circular bio-based side and waste streams for biogas and nutrient recovery
Master’s thesis (2023).
This study is made by Tran Ngo from Tampere University after TREASoURcE project’s assignment.
Summary
The current linear economic system has proven to be inadequate in preserving the environment and has led to significant environmental burdens such as pollution and climate change, posing a threat to life on Earth. Therefore, the transition to a circular economy is of utmost importance. Within the broader context of the circular economy, the valorization and utilization of bio-based side streams and waste materials are particularly critical due to their potential for nutrient and energy recovery.
This thesis is dedicated to promoting the transition to a circular bioeconomy by providing an overview of the operational environment for biogas and nutrient circularity and identifying associated challenges and opportunities. To achieve this goal, the research conducted includes a literature review of state-of-the-art valorization and digitalization technologies, examination of relevant legislations, 10 stakeholder interviews, and a questionnaire covering three case studies: the HAMK manure hygienization project, MTK e-marketplace, and ECO3 industrial ecosystem. These case studies represent three operational models of circular bioeconomy, namely self-sustaining circularity, rural-urban symbiosis, and industrial ecosystem, which are assessed for their systemic operation in the circular bioeconomy. The operational environment is assessed using PESTLE analysis, considering political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors. The operational challenges and opportunities are determined through a literature review and the validation and opinions of stakeholders regarding the practical operational environment.
Based on the literature review and stakeholder interviews, key factors influencing the operation of the circular bioeconomy include the availability and quality of feedstock, technical operations, financial viability, policy and legislative changes, social acceptance, resource competition, and alternatives to virgin materials. The commonly adopted valorization technologies for bio-based side and waste streams are biological methods such as composting and anaerobic digestion. Ensuring product quality is a significant technical challenge, which can be addressed through improved feedstock quality, availability, and sustainable material design. Technological solutions addressing these challenges can lead to increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Data and digitalization technologies, including e-marketplaces, artificial intelligence, and blockchain-based value chain management systems, can facilitate the transition to a circular bioeconomy. However, challenges remain in terms of the adoption of high-tech solutions and the establishment of necessary digital infrastructure.
Policies and legislation are gradually moving towards promoting circular bioeconomy through mandates for biowaste separation and renewable energy targets. However, there are noticeable legislative challenges such as inconsistent regulations, restrictions on the entry of bio-based side and waste stream products, taxation, and a lack of incentives for circularity. Additionally, more financial and fiscal support is needed for small-scale operations, as developing small self-sustaining circularity models can alleviate the burden of logistics and treatment.
Initiating a systemic transition to a circular bioeconomy requires close interlinkages between small self-sustaining circularity models, medium-scale rural-urban symbiosis, and large-scale industrial ecosystem operational models, along with active stakeholder engagement. The transition is driven by a combination of technological advancements, market demands, political support, and sociocultural changes that promote the adoption of circular products and services. The role of a system orchestrator is crucial in fostering collaboration among stakeholders and making this combination feasible.