Utilization of biomass-based resources for biofuel production: A mitigating approach towards zero emission

Abstract

Amidst the dual challenges of burgeoning global population and escalating climate change, the desire to develop and implement sustainable conversion of lignocellulosic biomass (LB) to value-added products becomes more pronounced. Green products, particularly bio-derived fuels and chemicals, emerge as powerful solutions for mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, combating global warming, and satisfying the energy needs of humanity. Today, concerted efforts are underway to produce petroleum-derived liquid fuels like butanol and diesel from renewable sources (e.g., LB). Despite LB currently serving as a significant energy source for many nations, the widespread adoption of technologies that can advance LB beyond burning for energy generation remains limited. Moreover, utilization of LB-derived sugars for fermentative production of fuels and chemicals is plagued with poor performance, largely due to the generation of lignocellulose-derived microbial inhibitory compounds (LDMICs) during pretreatment and hydrolysis of LB into sugars. This review provides an overview of global LB production and utilization, providing insights into both its current status and potential future directions. Specifically, the review paper focuses on various pretreatment options for the conversion of LB into sugars, delving into the mechanistic effects and strategies to abate the generation of LDMICs during pretreatment. Additionally, it explores innovative renewable strategies aimed at optimizing the utilization of second-generation feedstocks in biodiesel synthesis, thereby highlighting promising mitigating strategies toward achieving zero emissions.