Exploring the approach to socio-economic evaluation of technologies in circular economy using residual agricultural biomass

Quantifying Agricultural Biomass Potential in a Circular Economy: A Comprehensive National Study In the context of a circular economy, the effective utilization of agricultural biomass is paramount, particularly given the potential for biomass to be transformed into energy, thus reducing dependency on non-renewable resources. This study endeavours to estimate the available biomass derived from various agricultural activities across the national territory by intersecting data from the National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT) concerning agricultural production across different product categories, with data from the JRC - Biomass estimates database. This database, a collaborative project between the Joint Research Centre (JRC) and the Nova-Institute, quantifies the production and residues of agricultural biomass, incorporating indicators such as harvested biomass, agricultural residues (categorised into used and non-used), domestic extraction used (DEU), harvested area, and the yield of the domestic extraction used. The preliminary results gleaned from this cross-analysis reveal a rich tapestry of biomass distribution across the national landscape, emphasising the variations in biomass production and residue utilisation among different crops and regions. It becomes evident that specific crops and their corresponding regions demonstrate a higher efficiency in biomass utilization, with a prominent presence of harvested biomass and used agricultural residues. These findings are indicative of the potentialities that lie within the realm of agricultural biomass and its strategic role in fostering a circular economy. Understanding the nuances of these findings is vital in comprehending the multi-faceted nature of agricultural biomass within the national territory. The intricate interplay between harvested biomass, agricultural residues, and DEU highlights the need for a holistic approach towards maximizing biomass utilization and minimizing wastage. The implications of these findings extend far beyond the realms of agriculture and bioenergy, providing a framework that can be leveraged to inform policy-making, enhance sustainable farming practices, and foster a more efficient and circular agricultural sector. This study serves as a stepping stone towards a comprehensive understanding of the biomass potential from agricultural activities within the national territory. While the preliminary results offer a glimpse into the vast potentialities of agricultural biomass, further research is essential to delve deeper into the intricacies of biomass production, utilization, and transformation within the context of a circular economy. As we move forward, the insights derived from this study will prove invaluable in guiding the nation towards a sustainable and circular future, rooted in the efficient utilization of its agricultural biomass resources.