Cologne-based nova-Institute conducted a comprehensive survey of all European biorefineries in summer 2017. The project was done on behalf of the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC). For this purpose, a large number of sources were evaluated and an online survey was carried out, during which biorefineries could register themselves. Eventually, 224 biorefineries were identified and mapped across Europe.
The map distinguishes between:
- “Sugar-/starch based biorefineries”, producing bioethanol and other chemicals (63)
- “Oil-/fat-based biorefineries – biodiesel” (64) and “Oil-/fat-based biorefineries – oleochemistry” (54)
- “Wood-based biorefineries” (25) excluding those that produce pulp for paper only, “Lignocellulose other than wood” (5)
- “Biowaste-based biorefineries” (13)
The prevalence of biorefineries differs considerably between countries. The type of biorefinery is clearly dependent on the locally available biomass. Wood-based biorefineries can be found mainly in Northern Europe and “Sugar-/starch based biorefineries” mainly in France, Belgium, Germany and Hungary, where we see high yields in sugar and starch.
Several dozens more biorefineries are currently under construction. The map is to be updated annually. If your biorefinery is missing on the map, please contact: contact@nova-institut.de
The map can be downloaded for free at www.bio-based.eu/graphics or http://bioconsortium.eu
