INTERVIEW WITH MARIANNE THOMSEN – UNIVERSITY OF COPENHAGEN

“Conducting techno-economic performance assessments is crucial because it allows us to evaluate not only the technical feasibility but also the economic viability of new sustainable technologies”

Marianne Thomsen, Professor of Sustainability Assessment at the University of Copenhagen, speaks in this interview about the importance of conducting techno-economic assessments and the processes behind the sustainability performance.

Q: The University of Copenhagen is leading the activities in the framework of sustainability assessment. Could you explain the importance of conducting the techno-economic performance of the developed processes and products in the ALFAFUELS project?

A: Conducting techno-economic performance assessments is crucial because it allows us to evaluate not only the technical feasibility but also the economic viability of new sustainable technologies. In the ALFAFUELS project, we are developing innovative processes for producing sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) using micro-algae and cyanobacteria. By assessing the costs, energy use, and potential market value of these technologies, we can identify the most promising pathways for commercialization. This ensures that our efforts contribute meaningfully to reducing aviation’s carbon footprint while being economically competitive.

Q: How will you evaluate the sustainability performance (environmental, economic and social) and circularity of the developed processes and products?

A: For the environmental evaluation, we’ll employ life cycle assessment (LCA) to measure the impacts from raw material extraction to the end of the product’s life. Economic assessments will focus on the cost-effectiveness and potential for scaling up the technologies. Social impacts, such as job creation and community acceptance, will be assessed through stakeholder consultations. Additionally, we will assess the circularity of these processes by examining how waste products can be repurposed or reintroduced into the production cycle, thereby minimizing resource use and environmental impact.

Q: At a glance, how are you planning to map the availability of CO₂ in Europe?

A: We plan to map the availability of CO₂ across Europe by compiling data from various industrial sources, such as power plants, cement production facilities, and other sectors with significant CO₂ emissions. This will involve collaborating with industry partners and using existing databases to identify key regions where CO₂ is readily available and could be captured and utilized in our production processes. By aligning this with our project needs, we aim to optimize the supply chain for sustainable aviation fuel production.