Enxeñaría Química

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Lactic acid unchained: enabling the LA platform with lactic acid production with high selectivity and titer
(2025) Regueira López, Alberte; Delmoitié, Brecht; Rabaey, Korneel; De Wever, Heleen; Sakarika, Myrsini; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
The LA (lactic acid) platform is an attractive biorefinery concept whereby organic wastes are converted into high-added value products. The first step is an open-culture fermentation to selectively convert sugar-rich wastes into concentrated LA streams (>40 g/L), followed by its transformation into different industrially relevant products such as bioplastics (i.e. PLA), biochemicals (e.g. medium chain carboxylic acids) or marketable green solvents (e.g. ethyl lactate). As nowadays LA is produced in pure-culture fermentations, we cannot apply the current know-how to develop the LA platform. Thus, our research focused on optimising LA production in mixed-culture fermentations using cheese whey permeate as model waste stream. We evaluated the effect of different operational parameters (temperature, pH and hydraulic retention time) to optimise jointly productivity, yield, concentration and community. Our findings revealed that operating at mildly thermophilic conditions (45°C) resulted in highly selective LA production, and significantly augmented the LA yield and productivity, compared to more typical higher temperatures (50-55°C). Also, circumneutral pH conditions (6.0-6.5) led to an improved performance compared to the conventional acid pH conditions (≤5.5), leading to an unprecedented LA productivity of 27.4 g/L/h (70.0% yield), which is over 2.5 times the previous maximum reported value in a CSTR (Sakarika et al., 2021). The process was composed at all conditions by a very lean microbial community, which underlies its stability. Overall, we showed that LA production with the requirements of a biorefinery scheme is feasible, setting the first stone of the LA platform path.
Reducing the environmental footprint of the battery sector: assessment of a new recycling process from a techno-economic and life cycle perspective
(Elsevier, 2026-05-07) Gkousis, Spiros; Arias Calvo, Ana; Doninger, Anna; Umlauf, Zoe; Schmidt, Emily; Barsukov, Igor V.; Moreira Vilar, María Teresa; Katsou, Evina; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
The rising demand for lithium-ion batteries increases the need for sustainable end-of-life pathways that recover critical materials with low environmental burden. This study assesses a novel direct recycling process for recovering battery-grade graphite from spent NCA lithium-ion cells using primary data from a continuous pilot-scale plant. A combined techno-economic and life cycle assessment is performed, supported by sensitivity analysis, scenario analysis, and Monte Carlo simulation. The process delivers low environmental impacts, with a global warming value of 4.06 kg CO2-eq per kg of graphite and achieves economic viability with a positive net present value at year ten. The minimum selling price is 9.87 €/kg when co-product revenues are included. The findings indicate that direct recycling provides an efficient and environmentally preferable route for high-quality graphite recovery. The technology can enhance circularity in battery value chains and reduce reliance on virgin resources in Europe and the United States.
Uncovering the environmental burden of hops: a spatially resolved agricultural LCA for modern beer supply chains
(Springer, 2026-04-29) Fraile de Benito, Alberto; Agraso Otero, Adrián; Loussert, Perrine; Hospido Quintana, Almudena; González García, Sara; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
Purpose With the expansion of microbreweries and rising demand for craft beer, attention has increasingly turned to hops (Humulus lupulus), a key brewing component that remains understudied from an environmental impact perspective. This study assesses the environmental burdens of hop production in a new French growing region, comparing organic and conventional systems under contrasting yield levels, and addressing whether GIS-based nutrient emission modelling improves the representation of spatial variability in agricultural Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Methods An attributional cradle to farm-gate LCA was conducted for hop production systems located in Aquitaine. 1 kg of dried hop cones before pelletization was chosen as the Functional Unit (FU). The perennial cycle was represented over a 20-year lifespan by distinguishing establishment and productive phases and normalizing total impacts by cumulative production. Impact categories included Global Warming (GW), Terrestrial Acidification (TA), Terrestrial and Freshwater Ecotoxicity (TET - FET), Freshwater Eutrophication for nitrogen (FEn) and phosphorus (FEp), and Water Scarcity (WS). Nutrient leaching was estimated with InVEST Nutrient Delivery Ratio (NDR) model and compared with conventional approaches. Results and discussion Hop production was found to carry considerable environmental burdens, mainly driven by fertilization intensity, fuel-related field operations, and energy use during kilning. Organic low-yield systems showed the lowest impacts for GW and TA, whereas organic medium-yield systems exhibited markedly higher FE due to intensified nutrient inputs. Compared with U.S. benchmarks, French systems in new cropping regions showed roughly double carbon footprints due to low yields. At beer production level, hop use becomes environmentally significant in highly hopped craft styles (4–8 g/L) challenging the assumption that hops are negligible contributors. GIS-based nutrient modelling revealed that hydrological connectivity can substantially alter leaching estimates relative to conventional Tier I–II methods. Conclusions Hop cultivation can entail relatively high environmental burdens per kilogram of product, particularly when yields are low. Enhancing yields while optimizing fertilizer inputs is therefore essential to reduce impacts in emerging growing regions. By integrating GIS-based emission modeling into LCA and disentangling N and P-driven eutrophication with regionalized factors, this study provides management-relevant evidence to support the optimization of fertilization strategies. It also offers a transferable framework for other agricultural systems in which nutrient losses are a major driver of environmental impacts.
Pathway development for brewer’s spent grain valorization using multi-objective optimization
(Elsevier, 2026-04-29) Penedo Campos, Andrea; Yndgaard, Yeppe; Van der Hauwaert, Lucas; Mauricio Iglesias, Miguel; Hospido Quintana, Almudena; Errico, Massimiliano; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
Brewer’s spent grain (BSG) is a major biowaste stream in the European beer industry used for animal feed, biogas and landfilling. Its composition offers potential for producing a variety of value-added products, making it crucial to benchmark valorization technologies for better management. In response to this sectorial need, the study applies a methodological framework previously developed open-source OUTDOOR software to the brewing industry context. A multi-objective optimization was performed for a superstructure that includes all possible BSG valorization pathways, guiding decision-making in biorefinery design, and assessing the economic and environmental sustainability of the process. Beyond traditional valorization options, a comprehensive review of potential products and conversion pathways–including biological, thermochemical and extraction routes–was conducted based on biomass characterization. A Pareto efficiency analysis was applied to integrate the two optimization objectives, using earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) and minimum selling price (MSP) to evaluate economic performance, and the carbon footprint analysis compliant with ISO 14067 to assess environmental impact. Results indicate animal feed as the most profitable route, with an EBIT approximately 10 % higher than the best second alternative (compost). Environmentally, compost exhibits the smallest carbon footprint, around 91 % lower than the next best option (biogas). Ethanol and hydrochar stood out for their environmental value and proximity to market competitiveness, based on MSP. An evaluation of cascade conversion strategies suggested that the combination of multiple valorization routes is only viable through synergies between pathways, i.e. if obtaining one product facilitates the remaining routes through increased yields or resource efficiencies.
Environmental assessment of the production of itaconic acid from wheat straw under a biorefinery approach
(Elsevier, 2021) Rebolledo Leiva, Ricardo; Moreira Vilar, María Teresa; González García, Sara; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS)
This study performs the environmental assessment of itaconic acid (IA) production from wheat straw. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology is used to determine the environmental hotspots, considering impact categories such as Global Warming (GW), Fossil Resource Scarcity (FRS), Water Consumption (WC), among others. A sensitivity analysis was performed considering an optimization of the steam explosion process and 100% renewable energy. Results report an impact of about 14.33 kg CO2 eq in GW, 4.15 kg of oil eq in FRS, for each kg of IA produced for the baseline scenario. Moreover, the pretreatment and fermentation stages constitute hotspots of the IA production. In addition, using a renewable energy source in production would reduce the impact by 82% in GW, 71% in PM and 82% in FRS categories. The optimization of the steam explosion process presents a better performance in GW and FRS but also lies in an increase in WC.
Renewable carbon opportunities in the production of succinic acid applying attributional and consequential modelling
(Elsevier, 2021) Bello Ould Amer, Sara; Ladakis, Dimitris; González García, Sara; Feijoo Costa, Gumersindo; Koutinas, Apostolis A.; Moreira Vilar, María Teresa; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS)
Succinic acid (SA) is a top biobased chemical with numerous opportunities in the field of circular economy for climate neutrality. The objective of this work is to environmentally analyze the bio-production of SA from residual sugar-based streams from the pulp and paper industry (SSL). In this study we have complemented Attributional life cycle assessment (A-LCA) with Consequential life cycle assessment (C-LCA) analyzing the effect of mass versus economic allocation in the first method, and the potential of net reductions of carbon emissions in the chemical industry in the latter. The results present an analysis of the environmental effects of producing SA with two operation modes: fed-batch and continuous fermentation as well as the influence of assuming different geographical locations of the bio-SA production plant through the assessment of the effect of the electricity mix. On the other hand, utilizing the facultative anaerobic and capnophilic bacterium Basfia succiniciproducens in the fermentation and thus being CO2 an input, brings up the opportunity of assessing the carbon capture and utilization potential of the bio-SA value chain. An assessment of the upstream section and origin of CO2 was performed by studying the effect of capturing CO2 from industrial static point sources (cement industry and bioethanol production from fermentation). The carbon footprint attributional results suggest that SA from SSL provides a reasonable substitution for the SA fossil alternative although not reaching the same results when comparing against first generation SA produced from sorghum, which is 62% better. From the consequential perspective, substituting the current market of SA (fossil and 1st generation SA) by SA from SSL will provide improvements of up to 1465% by 2060.
High and tailored long-term accumulation of PHA enabled by a versatile mixed microbial culture
(Elsevier, 2026-04-11) López Garabato, Yolanda; Correa Galeote, David; Pedrouso Fuentes, Alba; Mosquera Corral, Anuska; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), such as poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) copolymers, are biopolymers that can serve as substitutes for conventional plastics as they have similar properties. The objective of this study was to develop a robust mixed microbial culture (MMC) enriched in microorganisms capable of accumulating high intracellular PHBV content. The MMC was successfully enriched and operated stably over the long term (521 days) in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) in which the carbon and nitrogen feeding were uncoupled. Its maximum PHBV accumulation capacity and biopolymer production yield were 62 wt% and 0.59 CmolPHBV/CmolVFA, respectively, and treated OLRs of up to 6 g COD/(L⋅d), which influenced the microbial community composition. The maximal accumulation capacity of the MMC, evaluated in batch experiments, was 83 wt% PHBV and yields of 0.63 CmolPHBV/CmolVFA. Similar results were obtained with the two synthetic volatile fatty acid (VFA) compositions tested. When the potential of this culture to use pre-acidified (VFA-rich) wastewater from fish canning residues as a substrate was evaluated, the highest obtained values were 56 wt% PHBV and 0.36 CmolPHBV/CmolVFA. The results demonstrate that PHBV composition can be adjusted by VFA feed composition (either synthetic or residual), highlighting the process versatility.
Evaluating the carbon footprint of a Spanish city through environmentally extended input output analysis and comparison with life cycle assessment
(Elsevier, 2021) Rama Caamaño, Manuel; Entrena-Barbero, Eduardo; Dias, Ana Cláudia; Moreira Vilar, María Teresa; Feijoo Costa, Gumersindo; González García, Sara; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS)
Currently, most of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are attributed to cities, as they are the global centers of business, residential and cultural activity, cities are expected to play a leading role in proposing climate change mitigation actions. To do so, it is important to have tools that allow the carbon footprint of cities to be assessed as accurately as possible. This study aims to quantify the carbon footprint (CF) associated with the activities developed in a Spanish city (Cadiz, Southwest Spain) by means of two available environmental methodologies, namely Environmentally Extended Input-Output Analysis (EEIOA) and Life Cycle assessment (LCA). When EEIOA is considered, two downscaling factors were proposed for the analysis due to the nature of the data handled (monetary data), based on the incomes (DF1) and expenditures (DF2) per inhabitant at city level. Regarding LCA, the rates of consumption of goods and production of waste per inhabitant have been processed to estimate the CF. The CF scores identified were 5.25 and 3.83 tCO2-eq·inhabitant−1·year−1 for DF1 and DF2 respectively, according to EEIOA, and 5.43 tCO2-eq·inhabitant−1·year−1, considering LCA. Therefore, a similarity can be concluded between the results obtained with both methodologies despite the inherent differences. Considering the results, the downscaling procedure based on income per inhabitant should be preferred, pointing to EEIOA as a good alternative to LCA for evaluating the CF at city level, requiring less time and effort. In contrast, EEIOA reports more limitations when critical flows were identified, which LCA can solve. Finally, this study can be of great interest to policy makers and city governments to know the CF and the main flows that contribute and in this way, can develop new policies and city models for reducing GHG emission new policies and city models for reducing GHG emission and addressing climate change.
Effective strategies for pathogen reduction in decentralized wastewater treatment systems
(Elsevier, 2025-11) Lois Alvedro, Marta; Rivadulla, Matías; Chhetri, Ravi Kumar; Suárez Martínez, Sonia; Andersen, Henrik Ramus; Omil Prieto, Francisco; López Romalde, Jesús; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS)
Decentralized wastewater treatment using membrane bioreactors (MBRs) is a suitable alternative for the removal of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, thus reducing the risk of infectious disease outbreaks. In this research, the effectiveness of different MBRs in removing pathogenic bacteria with clinical relevance (Klebsiella spp. and Enterococcus spp.) and enteric viruses (Norovirus – NoV – genogroups GI and GII, Sapovirus – SaV – and Hepatitis E Virus –HEV–) was evaluated in two decentralized collection systems: Demosite 1 (urban wastewater separated in black and grey fractions) and Demosite 2 (hospital effluents). We also evaluated the applicability of pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV) as general fecal contamination biomarker in water samples and its potential as indicator of viral removal in the two decentralized systems. Our data demonstrated that decentralized treatment through anaerobic and combined anoxic/aerobic treatment methods at both demosites efficiently eliminated pathogenic bacteria and enteric viruses. Log Removal Values (LRVs) at Demosite 1 and Demosite 2 reached up to >4.98 and > 4.95 for bacteria, respectively, and >7.53 and > >6.78 for enteric viruses, respectively. Enterococcus spp. such as E. faecalis and E. hirae, and NoV (GII and a lesser extent GI) were the most recalcitrant pathogens in the systems. We also demonstrated the potential of PMMoV as an indicator of enteric viral reduction during decentralized treatment process. This work highlights the reliability of decentralized treatment systems in reducing pathogenic microorganisms, offering a practical solution for improving public health and environmental safety.
Prospective LCA of future pathways for used cooking oil valorisation: advancing renewable energy and sustainable materials
(Springer, 2026-03-17) Vázquez Vázquez, Brais; Hospido Quintana, Almudena; Val del Río, Ángeles; Janssen, Matty; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS)
Purpose This study aims to evaluate the environmental performance of different valorisation pathways for used cooking oil (UCO). By applying prospective life cycle assessment (pLCA), conventional energy-based routes, such as biodiesel production, cogeneration, and incineration; were compared with novel materials routes such as bioplastic production using PRETENACC technology (TRL = 5). The analysis focuses on identifying the most environmentally favourable long-term option, emphasizing how increasing the market share of bioplastics could shape future UCO recovery strategies. Methods As the first step of the pLCA, more than 30 parameters related to UCO valorization were identified together with stakeholders with expertise in political, environmental, social, technological, economic and legal (PESTEL) fields. These were used to generate five future scenarios for 2030, 2040 and 2050. Life cycle inventories were developed using experimental and literature data on bioplastics, as well as data from the literature on energy pathways, covering the system boundaries from cradle to grave. The background processes were futurised with Ecoinvent 3.9.1 and scenarios based on IMAGE (SSP2-base and SSP2-RCP2.6). Environmental impacts were quantified using the intermediate categories of ReCiPe 2016, supplemented with indicators of the physical effects of microplastics on terrestrial and aquatic biota. Results and discussion The pLCA results show that scenario 1 (0% market share for bioplastics) has the lowest initial impacts (2030). Nevertheless, over time (2040 and 2050), only the environmental burden of bioplastics decreases, driven by cleaner electricity production and better waste sorting. Climate change impacts are largely influenced by bioplastics production and end-of-life (EoL) management, with mixed waste disposal accounting for up to 26% of the total impact in 2030, decreasing towards 2050. Terrestrial acidification is dominated by the bioplastics production. Particle formation reflects combustion-related trends, while microplastic impacts depend on poor management, which mainly affects marine environments as the final sink. Energy recovery pathways show limited potential for improvement, while bioplastics offer increasing long-term environmental benefits if appropriate EoL pathways are followed. Conclusions This study demonstrates that while energy recovery pathways, such as biodiesel, cogeneration, and incineration, contribute marginally to long-term environmental improvements, material valorisation through bioplastics offers a promising and more sustainable UCO management route. Environmental performance of bioplastics is highly dependent on EoL management and the polymer composition. Enhancing waste sorting practices and adopting lower-impact polymer blends are critical to maximizing benefits, enabling a significant reduction in the impacts associated with bioplastics.
AWARE historic and 2024 characterization factors for Spain
(Springer, 2026-03-11) Ferreiro Crespo, Iago; Villanueva Rey, Pedro; Couce Rodríguez, Alberto; Carreira García, Carla; Robles, Elena; Lorenzo Toja, Yago; Feijoo Costa, Gumersindo; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía
Purpose Water scarcity is a growing concern, especially in regions with Mediterranean, arid, and semi-arid climates. Conventional indicators often use historical data, limiting accuracy under current hydrological changes. This study aims to develop an improved methodology for water scarcity assessment in Spain, enhancing the AWARE approach by integrating current reservoirs data and refined demand estimates to increase spatial and temporal precision. Methods he AWARE-based methodology was adapted for Spain by incorporating up-to-date reservoir storage data and demand values sourced from official hydrological plans. The assessment operates at the granularity of Demand Units, the most resolved administrative partition in Spanish basin management, thereby permitting high-resolution spatial disaggregation. Characterization factors reflecting water scarcity were evaluated for each Demand Unit in annual time steps, superseding the static application of historical averages. This methodological refinement facilitates differentiated calculation of local water demand and supply, allowing a temporally dynamic and spatially resolved portrayal of water stress across the national territory. Results and discussion Application of this advanced methodology to 2024 data reveals an average increase of 8.3% in water scarcity characterization factors relative to historical baselines. However, this national mean conceals significant regional contrasts: certain regions experienced improved availability, while others exhibited intensified drought conditions, highlighting entrenched polarization in Spain’s hydrological landscape. The dynamic integration of supply and demand enhances the accuracy and adaptability of scarcity metrics compared to static approaches, facilitating improved identification of at-risk areas and underpinning environmental impact assessments with locally relevant evidence. Conclusions The developed methodology offers temporally responsive and spatially resolved water scarcity characterization factors tailored for the Spanish context, providing a robust tool for informed environmental assessments and sustainable regional water management. Given its modular and data-driven structure, this framework demonstrates strong potential for replication and adaptation in other regions facing similar hydrological challenges, contributing to the advancement of globally applicable water scarcity assessment practices.
Multi-omics reveals wastewater sludge bacteria with genomic potential to degrade poly(ethylene terephthalate)
(Elsevier, 2026-03) Vijande, Carlota; Balboa Méndez, Sabela; Lazzari, Massimo; Lema Rodicio, Juan Manuel; Pabst, Martin; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Química Física; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS)
Plastic pollution is a growing concern, especially poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), one of the most produced plastic polymers. Although several microorganisms capable of degrading PET have been identified, little is known about those present in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). This study explores their ability to degrade PET and the enzymes involved. Activated sludge from two facilities—one urban WWTP and one industrial WWTP—was cultivated with PET of different crystallinities. The inoculum source primarily determined differences in microbial community composition. Metagenomics revealed more than 300 genes homologous to PET-degrading enzymes in all biofilms; however, metaproteomics confirmed expression of only a few of these enzymes in industrial WWTP-derived biofilms. This inoculum demonstrated the ability to degrade PET breakdown products within 24 h. In addition, FTIR analysis revealed initial signs of surface alteration. In conclusion, this study reveals the presence of microorganisms in industrial wastewater treatment sludge that possess the genetic potential to degrade PET.
3D self-assembly of cyclic peptides into multilayered nanosheets
(Royal Society of Chemistry, 2026-02-26) Díaz Arias, Sandra Natalia; Sánchez Fernández, Adrián; Granja Guillán, Juan Ramón; Insua López, Ignacio; Montenegro García, Javier; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Farmacoloxía, Farmacia e Tecnoloxía Farmacéutica
The hierarchical self-assembly of three-dimensional (3D) supramolecular materials presents a significant challenge in molecular design. This process requires monomers with specific packing geometries and orthogonal contacts to enable multidimensional elongation. Here, we describe a new cyclic peptide design that allows hierarchical self-assembly in all three spatial dimensions to produce nanosheets composed of ordered nanotube layers. The uniformity of the nanosheet aspect ratio and thickness is consistent with the high packing order of the monomers observed in this 3D assembly.
Advancing parametric life cycle assessment (pa-LCA): A systematic review and methodological roadmap for enhanced sustainability assessments
(Elsevier, 2025-12) Arias Calvo, Ana; Moreira Vilar, María Teresa; Heijungs, Reinout; Cucurachi, Stefano; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS)
Parametric Life Cycle Assessment (Pa-LCA) is a dynamic modeling and analysis approach that integrates predefined variable parameters to enable the assessment of environmental impacts. This methodology enhances the f lexibility of life cycle sustainability assessments, particularly in processes characterized by uncertainty or variability. Given this, the effective selection of parameters is required, in order to develop a meaningful Pa-LCA, which can be adapted accordingly to the objectives identified for the analysis. While Pa-LCA is widely used in the literature, there is still a need to define an assessment path for its effective application, since, unlike conventional LCA, Pa-LCA is not a standardized method. Given this, a comprehensive review of existing Pa-LCA studies has been conducted. This review focuses on how parameters are identified, selected and operationalized, how functional units are adapted to parametric contexts, and if key performance indicators (KPIs) are considered on the definition. Through this analysis, methodological gaps and inconsistencies were identified that hinder the broader adoption and effectiveness of Pa-LCA. To address these challenges, a structured methodological roadmap has been developed, aiming at guiding researchers and practitioners in the development of robust and effective Pa-LCA models. This roadmap encompasses the definition of the parametric model considered, the selection of the most influential parameters, the use of parametric data for the development of a conventional LCA, the design of sensitivity and uncertainty analyses, and the interpretation of results for decision-making. By bridging theoretical and practical implementation strategies, and by the identification of actual gaps and challenges, this guide aims to standardize Pa-LCA practices and promote its use for developing dynamic life cycle assessments. It is hoped that the outcomes of this article could contribute to advancing the methodological maturity of Pa-LCA and unlocking its potential for more adaptive and informed sustainability assessments.
Process modelling and life cycle assessment of a carbon capture and conversion technology for methane production in indoor air and bioenergy environments
(Elsevier, 2026-03-15) Rebolledo Leiva, Ricardo; Bolognesi, Silvia; Bañeras, Lluis; Puig, Sebastià; González García, Sara; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
The climate change crisis demands urgent action to prevent crossing tipping points that could jeopardize societal well-being. This research presents the process modelling and life cycle analysis (LCA) of a novel carbon capture and conversion system referred to as the “De-cent concept” (decentralised mitigation technology of CO2 emissions). This innovative system is designed to capture CO2 and convert it into methane suitable for grid injection, also providing high quality air. The technology consists of an absorption/desorption unit for CO2 concentration and a bio-electrochemical system for methane conversion. The potential implementation of this system is first modelled using process simulation software (SuperPro Designer® v11) to obtain the mass and energy balances of methane production, considering two environments: indoor air and apple-based bioethanol production. Next, the environmental impacts of methane production, as well as the integration of the conversion technology into a bioethanol biorefinery, are assessed using the LCA methodology. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to enhance the environmental performance of the products (methane and bioethanol) by identifying critical hotspots in these scenarios. The results indicate that methane production in indoor environments could represent a promising approach to low or even negative carbon emissions (in the ‘cradle to gate’ scope) when renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic systems support the technology’s electricity supply. Furthermore, the environmental impact of bioethanol production could be reduced by approximately 55% to 84% by integrating carbon capture and conversion technology, together with renewable energy sources, into the design of the biorefinery. This research highlights the potential for energy generation in indoor environments and highly rich in CO2 industrial streams, and the development of bioenergy models that simultaneously capture carbon and generate methane.
Sustainability in the treatment of wastewater from canning industry effluents
(Elsevier, 2026-04-03) Cendán Pernas, Belinda; Arias Calvo, Ana; Estévez Rivadulla, Sofía; Artiga Acuña, Priscila; Feijoo Costa, Gumersindo; Moreira Vilar, María Teresa; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
The treatment of wastewater from the fish canning industry presents specific challenges due to its high organic load and elevated salt and nutrient concentrations. This study combines modelling and real-world data from an operating industrial plant to evaluate the performance and environmental impact of a wastewater treatment plant located in Galicia, Spain, which treats effluent from a tuna canning factory. The treatment setup includes physical pretreatment, dissolved air flotation, sequential biological reactor, and sludge treatment units. Based on the simulation results, a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was applied using the ReCiPe Midpoint (H) methodology, considering eight environmental impact categories. The results indicate that the greatest impact corresponds to the power consumption of the sequencing batch reactor for aeration, which results into 6.75 kg CO2-eq./m3. The sensitivity analysis, which included different European electrical profiles and the replacement of the coagulant polyaluminium chloride with ferric chloride, identified significant opportunities for environmental improvement. In this regard, the climate change category may reach reductions up to 4.45 and 0.38 kg CO2-eq./m3, for energy and chemical substitutions respectively. This integrated approach demonstrates the potential of combining simulation and LCA as a decision-support tool to improve sustainability in industrial wastewater treatment in the canning sector.
Environmental Assessment of Olive Stone Valorisation: From Cultivation to Biorefinery
(2025-09-10) Agraso Otero, Adrián; Cortiñas, Sara; Rebolledo Leiva, Ricardo; González García, Sara; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
Life Cycle Assessment of Red Grape Production in La Rioja Designation of Origin
(2024-10-30) Agraso Otero, Adrián; Cancela Barrio, Javier José; Vilanova de la Torre, Mar; Ugarte Andreva, Javier; Rebolledo Leiva, Ricardo; González García, Sara; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Agroforestal
Closing the loop in agriculture: life cycle assessment from manure to hydrogen and biofertilizer
(Elsevier, 2026-01-10) Tehseen, Arsal; Regueiro, Leticia; Feijoo Costa, Gumersindo; González García, Sara; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
Dairy sector accounts for 14–20 % of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions where the major emissions come from manure-management and fertilizers consumption. To address these hotspots, a closed-loop system is developed to valorise livestock manure for simultaneous hydrogen and fertilizer production, thereby fulfilling on-farm energy and nutrient needs. The system, modelled using SuperPro Designer®, consists of anaerobic digestion (AD) for biogas generation, followed by steam methane reforming and a water-gas shift reaction for hydrogen production. The digestate, enriched in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, serves as a biofertilizer, reducing reliance on synthetic alternatives. Simulation results demonstrate that the system can meet the farm's energy demands and supply up to 32 % of its fertilizer requirements. Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCA) was conducted using primary data from both the farm and the simulation model, employing an economic allocation approach within a cradle-to-gate boundary. The functional unit was defined as 1 kg of fat and protein corrected milk (FPCM). Two scenarios were evaluated: a conventional intensive dairy farm (Scenario-1) and the same farm with the proposed system (Scenario-2). Scenario-2 resulted in a significant shift in economic value towards hydrogen (63.01 %) and achieved a 66 % reduction in global warming potential per kg of FPCM without compromising milk yield. These results highlight the potential of integrated manure valorisation systems to promote circularity and reduce the environmental footprint of dairy farming. However, there is a need to study the feasibility and scalability of this approach for different farms, climatic-regions and geographical constraints.
Raw used cooking oil valorization into polyhydroxyalkanoates by mixed microbial cultures: evaluation of one- and two-unit configuration
(Elsevier, 2026-02-24) Ucha Muñoz, Carlota; Martínez Rey, Sara; Correa Galeote, David; Pedrouso Fuentes, Alba; Mosquera Corral, Anuska; Val del Río, Ángeles; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigación en Tecnoloxías Ambientais (CRETUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Química
The production of polyhydroxyalkanoates with untreated used cooking oil (UCO) as substrate represents an interesting strategy to valorize this residue into a value-added product. Three sequencing batch reactors (R1, R2, and RA) were operated, using mixed microbial cultures (MMCs) fed with raw UCO. R1 and R2 operated as enrichment units, with withdrawal at the end of the feast and famine phases, respectively. Enrichment was achieved in both within 30 days, reaching similar accumulations of the copolymer poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) (17.76 wt. % in R1 and 12.47 wt. % in R2). To improve process stability and reduce chemical consumption for pH control, urea was evaluated as nitrogen source, resulting in a reactor less dependent on pH control and increasing PHBV content from 16.7 to 25.7 wt. %. Then, the accumulation unit (RA) was operated in series with R1 to evaluate the maximum PHBV production of the biomass and compare the one-unit (R1) and two-unit (R1 + RA) configurations. Different hydraulic retention times (HRTs) were studied for the one-unit (24 and 48 h) and the two-unit (48 and 96 h) configurations. The best overall performance was observed at an HRT of 48 h in both cases, with similar accumulations (44.8–49.1 wt. % PHBV), yields (230–250 g PHBV/kg UCO) and productivities (0.010–0.013 g PHBV/(L·h)), showing that the one-unit was the best strategy for its operational simplicity. These results demonstrate the feasibility of enriching MMCs to produce PHBV using raw UCO, highlighting the potential of one-unit configuration to perform enrichment and accumulation steps in the same reactor.

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