Multi-actor life-cycle assessment of algal biofuels for the U.S. airline industry

The chapter describes a hybrid approach for assessing the environmental impacts resulting from the production and use of algae-derived biofuels. It addresses the issue of the level of emissions reductions that can be expected from the adoption of algal biofuels. The approach used for answering the question combines a standard life-cycle assessment (LCA) method with the perspectives of multiple actors along the life-cycle stages and supply chain network (e.g. algae growers, refiners, distributors, and users), hence the Multi–Actor Life–cycle Assessment. In addition to the accounting of life–cycle emissions, the decision–making behaviors of actors are considered. The result of the approach is a prediction of emission impacts that may actually take place. The fundamental concepts of multi–actor life–cycle assessment methodology will be described and then applied via a system–based simulation model to assess potential emissions reduction resulting from the adoption of algal biofuels in the U.S. airline industry.