State-of-the-art in bioresources for sustainable transportation

Achieving circularity in the transportation sector is the strongest need of the hour and one of the pathways to achieve this is by embracing sustainable bio-energy resources. Considering this need, we investigated and reviewed the state-of-the-art readiness of the current bioresources i.e., biofuels. We provide a fresh overview of various biofuels (bioethanol, biohydrogen, biodiesel) production pathways followed by the landscape of current global production and consumption. In these discussions, we alluded to the prospects of algae-derived biofuels together with the techno-commercial aspects of biofuels toward achieving competitiveness in costs, technology and system design. The review also discussed the limitations of existing batteries over biofuel cell technology in terms of vehicle weight, storage capacity, cost and greenhouse pollution. Next, we discussed the advancement in biofuel cells (BFCs) and the challenges to the successful implantation of biofuel cells in the automotive sector. The development of a new e-biofuel cell system infrastructure was also elaborated to reduce the existing BFCs current problems and their environmental-economical sustainability was discussed. The review concluded by summarizing the current market scenario, global forecast for green energy resources and future directions in the area. • We have surveyed the techno-commercial readiness of bio renewable resources. • Environmental impact and economical sustainability in transportation to achieve circularity was analyzed. • The realm of biofuel-based cars by 2040 was revisited in light of the current readiness. • The review compares and contrast biofuels with biofuel cells on the scale of their footprint.