Alternative Bioeconomy Strategies for Decarbonization

Yanyou Guan, Gordon Rausser, David Zilberman and Elliot Choi
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Yanyou Guan: University of California, Rausser College of Natural Resources
Gordon Rausser: University of California, Rausser College of Natural Resources
Elliot Choi: University of California, Department of Agricultural and Resources Economics, Rausser College of Natural resources

Chapter Chapter 11 in Handbook of Circular Bioeconomy, 2026, pp 175-207 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This chapter analyzes bioeconomy strategies for decarbonization, emphasizing their importance in achieving global net-zero emissions by 2050. While renewable energy plays a central role in climate mitigation, it cannot alone eliminate fossil fuel dependence due to electrification limits, storage challenges, and sectoral constraints. Bioeconomy strategies complement renewables by leveraging biological systems to capture, substitute, and remove atmospheric CO₂. These strategies are organized into three pathways: photosynthesis, thermochemical conversion, and microbial processes. Together, they enable a diverse set of technologies—ranging from biofuels and bioplastics to soil carbon sequestration and carbon-negative systems like biochar and BECCS (Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage). Strategies are further categorized into carbon sequestration, carbon substitution, and carbon removal approaches. Technology readiness varies across the portfolio. Afforestation, conventional biofuels, and bioplastics are commercially mature (TRL 9), while algae-based biofuels, microbial CO₂ conversion, and genetic engineering remain in earlier development stages. Economic feasibility also ranges widely. Nature-based solutions like afforestation offer highly cost-effective mitigation ($4.2–16.9/ton CO₂), whereas algae systems and some advanced biofuels are not yet competitive without policy support. Biochar and BECCS occupy a middle ground, offering scalable carbon removal with additional co-benefits for agriculture and energy systems. The chapter calls for targeted investments, policy alignment (e.g., carbon pricing), and regional implementation strategies to scale promising bioeconomy pathways. Emerging tools such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology can further accelerate progress. By delivering both carbon mitigation and broader sustainability outcomes, bioeconomy strategies represent essential components of an integrated, resilient, and low-carbon economic future.

Keywords: Decarbonization; Mitigation; Sequestration; Thermochemical conversion; Photosynthesis; Microbial processes (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-07112-5_11

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