Lignocellulosic biorefineries: the path forward

Abstract Global energy demand is expected to increase by 48% in the next 20 years owing to the precipitous increase in the global population. Currently, 80% of the energy demand is met by fossil fuels. However, rapidly depleting fossil fuel reserves coupled with the negative environmental impacts has driven research toward biofuels. Biorefineries have recently attracted significant attention owing to their system dynamics where multiple products can be generated from a singular waste feedstock. Bioethanol, biohydrogen, bio-jet fuel, biomethane, and biodiesel have all been examined in different combinations in a biorefinery system, and have shown great potential. There are obstacles that inhibit the complete advancement of this technology such as the development of effective yet low-cost pretreatment strategies. Bioethanol has emerged as a valuable competitor to fossil-derived fuel owing to its compatibility with current infrastructure and its clean burning nature. Lignocellulosic biorefineries have the potential to contribute to a circular and green economy but more research is needed to propel this technology forward.