Recent advances in residual biomass conversion into bioenergy and value-added products: A review of the Ecuadorian situation

Abstract

Biomass is key towards the production of renewables, heat, biofuels, and green chemical feedstocks. Based on results reported in the literature, Ecuador, an agriculture-based economy, has the potential of meeting its energy demands while satisfying environmental regulations, by the conversion of self-generated residual biomass. Conventional biological, chemical and thermochemical methods have been modeled and widely studied at laboratory scale for the production of biogas, bioethanol, and other solid and liquid fuels, being milestones for upcoming scaled-up applications. Recently, studies have also shown the development of new processes for the conversion of Ecuadorian biomass wastes into value-added products for future applications. Providing a more complete way to manage the waste problem, aiming to create a sustainable economic growth within a bio-economy perspective.