In a fossil-free future, carbon will continue to be a vital component in many industrial processes and products, such as fuels, chemicals, and materials. However, the current sources of CO₂ are largely fossil-based, which is unsustainable in the long term. This project, titled "Local Synergies for Sustainable and Diversified CO₂ Utilization", focuses on how bio-based industries can play a key role in providing renewable CO₂, creating local synergies for CO₂ utilization, and reducing the dependence on fossil carbon. The project explores how these industries can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient CO₂ market.
Goals
The primary goal of this project is to identify and analyze local and regional opportunities for CO₂ utilization, particularly by leveraging the potential of bio-based industries. This includes:
- Identifying local synergies between CO₂ producers and users to optimize resource use.
- Evaluating how bio-based industries can diversify the CO₂ market and reduce its reliance on fossil-based sources.
- Investigating the role of bio-based CO₂ in promoting a circular carbon economy.
- Examining the technical, organizational, and economic conditions necessary for the effective use of biogenic CO₂.
Expected Outcomes
The project is expected to deliver several key outcomes:
- Improved Circularity: By promoting the use of renewable, biogenic CO₂, the project will contribute to the creation of more circular carbon processes, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels.
- Increased Market Resilience: Diversifying the CO₂ supply chain with local, bio-based sources will help make the CO₂ market more resilient to external disruptions.
- Environmental Benefits: The increased use of biogenic CO₂ can lead to significant reductions in CO₂ emissions by replacing fossil-based carbon sources, thereby contributing to global climate goals.
- New Business Models: The project will propose new business models and partnerships between CO₂ producers and users, particularly in local and regional contexts, helping bio-based industries to better valorize their CO₂ outputs.
The relevance of this project is significant for multiple sectors. As Sweden and other countries move toward fossil-free economies, finding sustainable alternatives to fossil-based CO₂ is crucial. Bio-based industries, such as those involved in biogas production, bioethanol, and biomass energy, generate large amounts of CO₂ as a byproduct, which can be captured and reused. This approach aligns with the goals of a circular economy, where waste becomes a resource, and helps industries transition to sustainable practices.
Additionally, the project addresses the vulnerability of the current CO₂ market, which has experienced supply chain disruptions due to reliance on a small number of fossil-based CO₂ producers. By developing local synergies, the project will strengthen the security of supply and promote the use of renewable CO₂ in industries such as agriculture, food and beverage, and construction.
