Unlocking the power of Italy's bioeconomy: A comparative analysis of immediate vs. deferred impact on energy generation through straw valorisation

This study investigates the value and impacts of utilising cereal residual biomass according to bioeconomy principles within the Italian context. Cereals are relevant\r\nin Italy, accounting for over 60 % of total crop residue production. These residues exhibit uniform energy content, enabling different applications. This study\r\nuniquely compares three scenarios for converting straw residues into bioenergy via combustion, slow pyrolysis, and anaerobic digestion, considering residues\r\navailability and environmental impacts assessed through attributional Life Cycle Assessment (ISO 14040-44) using 1 GJ of energy obtained as a functional unit. Each\r\ninvestigated scenario is based exclusively on using cereal residual biomasses without adding other residual biomasses and includes both the production of bioenergy\r\nand the contribution to carbon stocks, considering the residues left in the field and the potential return of biochar. Among the scenarios, slow pyrolysis emerged as\r\nthe most promising, with biochar offering additional yet unquantified benefits for carbon-smart management, climate change mitigation, and economic sustain-\r\nability. The potential benefits of pyrolysis and biochar underscore the positive outcomes of the study, which are instrumental in guiding the development of reg-\r\nulatory frameworks supporting policymakers in making sustainable decisions. By providing a detailed comparison of environmental impacts, this research integrates\r\neffective cereal residue management practices into policy and regulatory measures, highlighting promising solutions and directing further research toward max-\r\nimising environmental and climate benefits through optimised and targeted approaches.