WP8 will determine and compare the impacts of biofuel production in integrated biorefineries with other sources of biofuels and with conventional fuels:
(1) with reference to existing and emerging frameworks for calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the treatment of sustainability criteria,
(2) by incorporating a model of biorefinery operation, based on the outcomes from other WPs, especially WP7, to provide necessary data for the quantitative and qualitative assessment of sustainability,
(3) by adopting transparent workbooks to evaluate total GHG emissions and a transparent approach to the evaluation of other sustainability criteria.

The primary focus of WP8 is on the quantification of GHG emissions because of current emphasis on this specific environmental consideration in official policy on biofuels, especially the European Commission's Renewable Energy Directive and Fuel Quality Directive which both specify the necessary GHG emissions calculation methodology and target savings.

However, other environmental, social and economic aspects are important, and the means for their evaluation, have been emerging and developing over a period of time. The most relevant of these other aspects will also be taken into account within the SUNLIBB Project, including, for instance, direct and indirect land use change, water use, eutrophication, biodiversity, and socio-economic impacts (jobs and equity).

WP8 leader:  Dr. Nigel Mortimer (P7,North Energy Associates Ltd, UK)