The Impact of Renewable Energy on a Grass-Based Biorefinery: Sustainability Assessment of Grass-Derived Proteins

Abstract

The increasing global demand for sustainable protein sources has driven interest in grass protein as an alternative to conventional animal- and plant-based proteins. This study evaluates the environmental impacts of grass protein production using an attributional Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) approach. The analysis employs the Pasture-to-Plate (P2P) mechanochemical process, which integrates multiple unit operations to optimize protein extraction and processing efficiency. The LCA follows a cradle-to-gate system boundary, assessing key environmental impact categories such as global warming potential, land use, water consumption, acidification, eutrophication, and human toxicity. Results indicate that producing 1 kg of grass protein is associated with 0.546 kg CO2-eq, with feedstock production contributing the most significant share of the environmental burden. The study identifies critical process inefficiencies and proposes strategies for optimization, including improved agricultural practices, energy-efficient drying methods, and circular resource utilization. By enhancing production sustainability, grass protein can emerge as a viable alternative to conventional protein sources, supporting the development of resilient and eco-friendly food systems.

Keywords: Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), Grass Protein, Environmental Impact, Sustainable Food Production, Resource Efficiency

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1006564