Grand Challenges for Life-Cycle Assessment of Biofuels

Publication Type

Journal Article

Date Published

03/2011

Authors

DOI

Abstract

Biofuels are widely touted as viable, albeit not straightforward, alternatives to petroleum-derived fuels. To best determine their utilization, many practitioners turn to life-cycle assessment (LCA) to ascertain the “environmental footprint”. Although parameters such as resource and land use, along with infrastructure, can be incorporated into LCA algorithms, many have noted that the methodological approach still needs careful attention. In this Feature, McKone et al. outline seven grand challenges that need to be engaged and surmounted to provide the best way forward for biofuel use.

Journal

Environmental Science & Technology

Volume

45

Year of Publication

2011

Issue

5

ISSN

0013-936X

Organization

Research Areas