Biogenic determination in biofuels

Quantifying the biobased content in fuels can help to

• Qualify for tax credits and comply with regulations
• Achieve decarbonisation and zero emission targets
• Verify the accuracy of biofuel blends and receive accurate results in research and development.

To achieve the goal of net zero emissions, it is crucial to phase out fossil fuels and switch to renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. This process, known as decarbonisation, is essential to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. The Paris Agreement, a legally binding treaty signed by 196 countries, aims to limit global warming to less than 1.5°C compared to pre-industrial levels. To achieve this goal, emissions must be reduced by 45% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050.

Although the combustion of biomass releases CO2, it is important to distinguish between fossil and biogenic CO2 emissions. Burning fossil fuels releases carbon that has been trapped in the soil for millions of years, increasing the total amount of carbon in the biosphere-atmosphere system. In contrast, burning biomass releases carbon that was part of the biogenic carbon cycle, returning carbon absorbed during plant growth to the atmosphere.