Sustainable ethanol production: CO2 emission analysis and feedstock strategies through life cycle assessment

Abstract

The environmental impact of ethanol as a substitute for petroleum-based fuels is mainly dependent on its feedstock. This study employs Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to compare CO₂ emissions from ethanol production derived from sugarcane, maize, and rice, alongside conventional petrol, to identify the most sustainable option for fuel. The findings reveal that sugarcane, maize, and rice-based ethanol provide the most significant ecological benefits, with net CO₂ emissions of −1.61 kg/L, −0.19 kg/L, and 0.81 kg/L, primarily due to their superior carbon sequestration potential and installation of carbon storage plants in the distilleries, making them environmentally preferable to petrol. Additionally, ethanol demonstrates better combustion properties and a lower carbon intensity compared to petrol, thereby reinforcing its role as a cleaner alternative for energy. The study further highlights that integrating CO₂ capture technologies in ethanol distilleries can significantly reduce emissions, thereby enhancing both environmental sustainability and economic feasibility. These insights highlight the potential of ethanol as a viable, low-carbon energy source, particularly when combined with advanced emission-reduction strategies for transportation fuel.