Toward optimal use of biomass as carbon source for chemical bioproduction

• Published in: Current opinion in biotechnology 2023-06, Vol.81, p.102942-102942, Article 102942
• Main Authors: Troiano, Derek T, Hofmann, Tobias, Brethauer, Simone, Studer, Michael H-P
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biomass; Carbon; Fermentation; Lignin; Organic Chemicals
• ISSN: 0958-1669; 1879-0429
• DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2023.102942

Biomass is widely identified as a promising, renewable replacement for fossil feedstocks in the production of energy, fuels, and chemicals. However, the sustainable supply of biomass is limited. Economic and ecological criteria support prioritization of biomass as a carbon source for organic chemicals; however, utilization for energy currently dominates. Therefore, to optimize the use of available biomass feedstock, biorefining development must focus on high carbon efficiencies and enabling the conversion of all biomass fractions, including lignin and fermentation-derived CO2. Additionally, novel technological platforms should allow the incorporation of nontraditional, currently underutilized carbon feedstocks (e.g. manure) into biorefining processes. To this end, funneling of waste feedstocks to a single product (e.g. methane) and subsequent conversion to chemicals is a promising approach. [Display omitted] •The sustainable biomass supply is insufficient to meet global energy demand.•There may be sufficient supply to meet global demand for carbon feedstock.•The biomass supply must be strategically budgeted.•Biorefining processes should have a maximal carbon efficiency.•Biorefining must include underutilized waste feedstocks such as manure.