Prognosis of carbon dioxide savings from the use of biomass in the cement industry in the Iberian Peninsula

Research output: ThesisMaster's Thesis

Abstract

Climate change is a serious global problem caused mostly by rising amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO_2), in the Earth's atmosphere. Because cement production is highly energy-intensive and heavily reliant on fossil fuels, the cement sector contributes significantly to CO_2 emissions. As a result, alternative, more sustainable fuel sources in the cement making process are required. The use of biomass as an alternative fuel in the cement industry has attracted attention in the Iberian Peninsula as an effective way to minimize CO_2 emissions. Biomass energy, which is obtained from organic materials such as agricultural wastes, wood waste, or specific energy crops, is renewable and carbon neutral. However, comprehensive biomass incorporation in the cement sector demands a thorough analysis of technological, logistical, and regulatory concerns. The use of biomass as an alternative fuel in the Iberian Peninsula cement industry has enormous promise for lowering CO_2 emissions and addressing climate change. To overcome problems and effectively adopt sustainable practices, corporations, governments, and researchers must work together. When comparing the roadmaps developed and implemented in Iberian Peninsula, to the European version, it is feasible to conclude that they all follow a very similar path towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. In 2050, it is expected to reach 70 kg CO_2 /t cement as average (about 80 kg CO_2 /t cement and 60 kg CO_2 /t cement). Three times more than the current value in 2023 (around 22 kg CO_2 /t cement).

Details

Translated title of the contributionPrognose der Kohlendioxid-Einsparungen durch den Einsatz von Biomasse in der Zementindustrie auf der Iberischen Halbinsel
Original languageEnglish
QualificationMSc
Awarding Institution
Supervisors/Advisors
Award date20 Oct 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023