Case studies
To support the development of a systematic approach and general methodology, four sectors and related supply chains have been chosen as “test beds” for the development of practical tools: Chemicals and related products; Food&Drink; Bio-feedstocks and Biofuels. The case studies will be developed in collaboration with industrial partners.
Chemicals and related products
This case study will focus on the carbon footprints of various chemicals and related products. The work will also include calculation of value added along the supply chain and comparisons with carbon added. The main emphasis will be on identifying low-carbon options that could be implemented in this supply chain. The products to be studied include basic chemicals, polymers and packaging. The role in reducing carbon intensity of process optimisation and intensification as well as improved product formulation through novel chemistry will also be examined.
Bio-Feedstocks
This case study will investigate the use of various bio-feedstocks (e.g. cereals, sugar, woody crops, waste) to produce chemicals. One of the questions that will be addressed from the carbon footprint and value added points of view is whether biorefineries should be geared toward producing platform chemicals that are precursors to high value added chemicals, or to producing raw materials that could be a starting feedstock for existing refineries or chemical plants. The case study will cover the whole supply chains as far as possible, from growing or obtaining the biomass through its processing to producing chemicals.
Food and Drink
For this case study, a macro-scale analysis of food and drink systems in the UK will be undertaken to identify the carbon ‘hot spots’. Subsequently, both “marginal” and “disruptive” options that could be introduced to reduce the carbon footprints in this supply chain will be identified and investigated in more detail. The supply chain will include agricultural activities, raw material processing, food and drink manufacture, packaging, storage (refrigeration) and waste management.
Biofuels
This case study will investigate the supply chains associated with both bio-diesel and bio-ethanol, including different feedstocks and production routes. The case study will also include consideration of advanced biofuels, such as bio-butanol, which has several processing and handling advantages over ethanol and which is expected to come to the market in the near future as a gasoline bio-component. The use of biofuels in the other three supply chains addressed here will also be investigated