Title:
Simulation Circularity of Biogas and Water Treatment Plant Using the Eco-efficiency Index
Author(s):
Aalto, M., Shrestha, P., Ranta, T.
Document(s):
Paper
Poster
Abstract:
Circularity indicators have been developed for a variety of applications, but little attention has been paid to their robustness, and if they are to be used in simulation studies, they needs to be robust. In this study, the impact of the Eco-Efficiency Index on the utilization of simulation study methodologies in circular economy systems was investigated. The case study was at a water treatment facility that produces sludge that may be utilized as feedstock in a biogas plant. The study employed two agent-based simulation runs, one with a standalone water treatment facility producing tap water and the other with a biogas plant producing methane for heating and transportation Carbon tax prices and the global warming potential 100 years excluding biogenic carbon was used to estimate Eco-Efficiency Index When the system is viewed from the perspective of a water treatment facility, the results show that using sludge as biogas feedstock has environmental benefits that outweigh the consequences. It is possible to conclude that the Eco Efficiency Index is a potential variable for simulation modeling and that it can be used to optimize systems based on circularity.
Keywords:
modelling, wastewater treatment, circular economy, life cycle assessment (LCA)
Topic:
Sustainability, Impacts and Policies
Subtopic:
Resource efficient economy
Event:
31st European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
2BV.9.8
Pages:
454 - 456
ISBN:
978-88-89407-23-3
Paper DOI:
10.5071/31stEUBCE2023-2BV.9.8
Price:
FREE
