Abstract
Abstract:
A systems ecology view on bioenergy/biofuels
Sergio Ulgiati, Department of Sciences for the Environment – Parthenope University of Napoli, Italy
Sustainable growth and development of both environmental and human-dominated systems require optimum use of available resources for maximum power output, as suggested by Lotka-Odum’s Maximum Power Principle (Lotka, 1922; Odum and Odum, 2001). In times of declining resources, this principle translates into increased efficiency and optimum use of any kind of waste and co-products. Ecosystems and any self-organizing systems always apply this strategy and their selection/evolution mechanisms are based on their ability of growing on any untapped resource available. In order to do so, they increase the number of components and patterns for resource degradation in order to optimize resource throughput and power output. Such a strategy also applies to human-dominated, economic systems, where the ability of dealing with co-products and waste by means of appropriate designs as well as reuse and recycling processes may lead to ‘‘zero-emission’’ patterns (increased complexity, optimal resource throughput, minimization of emissions, resource exchange among system’s components) and be the key for successful and sustainable development. It should be, however, pointed out that the sustainability of human-dominated systems (cities, production sectors, economies) cannot be achieved at the expenses of the sustainability of the other ecosystems (forests, water bodies, topsoil, and so on) that form the life-support net of human societies. A balanced interplay of humanity and nature is mandatory for successful sustainability strategies.
A systems thinking attitute is needed in all aspects of societal and economic dynamics including the energy sector. The shortage of energy and material resources is day by day source of large concern. The problem is two-fold, since it involves an actual (or potential) material and energy scarcity as well as the price increase due to competition for scarce resources by many potential users in developed and developing countries. An additional kind of scarcity is embodied in the excess exploitation of environmental services (fresh water, clean air, topsoil, material cycling) or, in other words, in the decreased ability of the environment to act as a sink of pollutants released by human activities.
This presentation addresses a much-needed shift away from linear production and consumption patterns, towards a reorganization of economies and lifestyle that takes complexity (of resources, of the environment, of the economy) into proper account. Energy is a crucial matter in such a reorganization. After dealing with the existing constraints to bio-energy exploitation and use, we analyze the potentiality of photosynthesis to become a new source of materials and energy for a growing world population. Focus is placed on two main aspects: (a) the implementation of complex systems that take the maximum advantage of the available typologies of biomass (biorefinery); (b) the need for innovative environmental accounting methods for proper sustainability assessment of the proposed solutions.
Lotka, A.J., 1922. Contribution to the energetics of evolution. Natural selection as a physical principle. In: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, vol. 8. 1922, p. 147-155.
Odum, H.T. and Odum, E.C., 2001. A Prosperous Way Down. Principles and Policies. University Press of Colorado. Pp. 326