Journal
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
Volume 26, Issue -, Pages 579-624Publisher
PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD
DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2013.05.056
Keywords
Soybean methyl ester (SME); Soy biodiesel; Life-cycle assessment (LCA); Global status; Future perspectives
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This survey paper critically reviews the performance and prospects of soy biodiesel production on a global basis as assessed by some 30 life-cycle analyses (LCAs). The paper compares agricultural and industrial practices. Soy biodiesel is not a most sustainable product in all global circumstances. Life-cycle energy depends on specific climatic conditions, and on the agro- and processing technologies used. Alternative oilcrop cultivation practices and technologies were evaluated. Opportunities have been identified to improve the biodiesel life-cycle energy efficiency and environmental impact in relevant production areas (mainly USA, Brazil, Argentina and P.R. China) by implementing new technologies in agriculture as well as in industrial processing. The consequences of large-scale renewable energy action plans in the European Union and of biodiesel mandates in numerous countries worldwide are critically considered. The paper concludes with perspectives and recommendations. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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