Water-energy nexus and greenhouse gas–sulfur oxides embodied emissions of biomass supply and production system: A large scale analysis using combined life cycle and dynamic simulation approach

The achievement of low or zero greenhouse gas and particulate matter emissions such as sulfur oxides, optimized water-energy nexus, and a well-protected environment are challenges that have become increasingly significant for the biomass industry. There is a need to conduct evaluation and analyses of the greenhouse gas and particulate emissions, water use and energy consumption of biomass process and delivery, from “cradle to gate”. Therefore, to fill this noted gap in the literature, this study aims to develop a combined life cycle and dynamic simulation model to examine water-energy nexus in the biomass industry, particularly under uncertainties, as well as estimation of greenhouse gas and particulate matter emissions of the biomass supply chain by 2050. The dynamic modelling of material, energy, and water flows was used to perform those tasks. An in-depth analysis of environmental issues during the production, processing, conversion and delivery of empty fruit bunches biomass supply and production system is conducted. The model was tested and implemented through a case study of three main biomass suppliers in Malaysia. Comparison of environmental performance of the production stages of 31 products through pre-processed, intermediate, and final productions in the biomass supply chain shows that bio-compost, activated-carbon, and cellulose are the highest water users and energy consumers as well as the highest emitters of greenhouse gas and sulfur oxides for all the three suppliers. Sensitivity analysis was also conducted for these critical products based on recent governmental land and demand policies. The main finding of this paper indicates a need for a well-planned management of water-energy nexus in pre-processed production compared to intermediate and final production of biomass supply chain. This finding provides valuable insights to the government agencies and stakeholders to pursue sustainable bioenergy development strategies.