Opportunities and challenges for the production of fuels and chemicals: materials and processes for biorefineries

Integrating biofuels and biomass chemicals stimulates the transition to the inevitable bioeconomy era that can be achieved by implementing new technologies in existing industrial units where waste streams and by-products can be used as a renewable source of raw materials to produce various commodities and other value-added chemicals. This synergistic approach requires less capital investment, creates new business and job opportunities, expands the market, and reduces the environmental impact caused by the operation of industrial plants. This chapter depicts the current situation of the two main biofuels in Brazil, ethanol and biodiesel. It discusses opportunities and bottlenecks in exploiting lignocellulosic and oleaginous materials, focusing on the important role of enzymatic and microbial processes in supporting a sustainable industry.