(561c) Environmental Sustainability of Biofuels for Maritime Decarbonization on a Planetary Scale

Marine biofuels are a promising solution for reducing the environmental impact of the shipping industry and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They are produced from renewable sources and can be used as a direct substitute for traditional fossil fuels. By using marine biofuels, we can not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also improve air quality and diversify fuel sources, leading to greater energy security. However, there are also challenges associated with the use of marine biofuels, such as the need for sustainable feedstocks and the potential competition with food production. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully consider the environmental and social impacts of biofuel production and use to ensure that sustainability criteria are met.

Additionally, to our knowledge, the implications of displacing biofuels for fossil marine fuels, such as commercial very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO), have yet to be examined on a planetary scale. We have attempted to link biofuel production to planetary boundaries to determine if sustainability thresholds are met. This study links a bottom-up model covering the production of up to 80% of marine biofuels to the planetary boundaries framework. We will determine the extent to which sustainability thresholds are transgressed or exceeded by marine fuels derived from biomass. This presentation will discuss the opportunities for achieving absolute sustainability of marine biofuels for marine propulsion.