Converting CO₂ Emissions from Bio-Based Industries into Sustainable Chemicals to Mitigate Climate Change: a practical methodology from the perspective of the R&D projects

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.8582519024

• Palavras-chave: '

• Keywords: Biogenic CO2, sustainable chemicals, CO₂ conversion, gas fermentation, renewable energy integration.

• Abstract:

  The transition to a low-carbon economy demands innovative approaches to mitigate the growing levels of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂). This chapter explores the valorisation of biogenic CO₂ emissions from bio-based industries, positioning it as both an environmental necessity and an economic opportunity. The accelerating climate crisis, driven by rising levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere, has intensified the global push for innovative mitigation strategies. Among these gases, CO₂ is the most abundant, contributing approximately 75% of global GHG emissions. Industrial activities, transportation, and fossil fuel-based energy generation are the primary sources of these emissions. However, as the world transitions toward a low-carbon economy, bio-based industries are emerging as pivotal players in the dual role of reducing emissions and contributing renewable resources to industrial systems.

  Bio-based industries encompass sectors that utilize biological resources—such as biomass, agricultural residues, and organic waste—to produce energy, fuels, chemicals, and materials. As a natural consequence of these processes, they generate biogenic CO₂, a renewable form of carbon dioxide derived from biological systems rather than fossil fuels. Unlike CO₂ emitted from fossil sources, biogenic CO₂ can be seamlessly integrated into circular economy frameworks, allowing for its valorisation into high-value chemicals and fuels that replace carbon-intensive products.

  Through advanced thermocatalytic, electrocatalytic, and biological technologies, CO₂ can be transformed into high-value products such as methanol, ethanol, organic acids, and polymers. These products have applications across diverse sectors, including energy, agriculture, and materials, supporting the global shift toward circular economy frameworks. The chapter also outlines a practical R&D methodology for scaling CO₂ valorisation technologies, emphasizing structured experimentation, data-driven optimization, and integration with renewable energy systems.

  Despite challenges such as infrastructure limitations, economic barriers, and the need for policy support, emerging innovations and collaborative strategies are paving the way for industrial-scale adoption. By redefining CO₂ as a resource rather than a waste product, bio-based industries can play a pivotal role in achieving climate goals and fostering sustainable industrial growth.