Bio-based fuels and sustainable materials from advanced renewable technologies

BioSMART is a research initiative aimed at developing advanced biorefineries to reduce fossil fuel dependency in sectors like aviation and maritime transport. These biorefineries utilize lignocellulosic biomass, converting all biomass fractions and residual streams into advanced biofuels, chemicals, and materials, adhering to zero-waste principles. The BioSMART project prioritizes efficiency, feedstock adaptability, and the use of co-production models to enhance economic and environmental viability, unlocking feedstock potential in Europe and India as geographic scope . The BioSMART consortium unites leading industrial innovators (JM, Avantium, Perseo), renowned RTOs (CSIC, TNO, WUR, NIC, TERI), and top universities (TUE, KIT, IITJ). In a nutshell, BioSMART:• Develops cost-effective technologies to convert biogenic residues and aquatic biomass into advanced biofuels, monomers, and biomaterials, focusing on resource efficiency and product value.• Achieves zero waste and negative carbon emissions.• Combines fermentation, catalytic processes, and process intensification for cost-efficiency.• Validates technologies at TRL5.• Employs digitalisation and a holistic framework for strategic decision-making, considering technoeconomic, environmental, and social factors.• Collaborates with industrial biorefineries to enhance impact.• Supports Mission Innovation 2.0 for Integrated Biorefineries in the EU, UK, and India.BioSMART has the potential to: scale and demonstrate zero-waste biorefinery technologies for renewable fuels; reduce advanced biofuel costs to be competitive with fossil fuels by increasing efficiency and diversifying revenue streams; improve sustainability through substantial greenhouse gas reduction and resource savings; and promote rural economic growth. Additionally, it aims to strengthen Europe's leadership in the field by fostering collaborative research and informing policymakers to refine regulations.