EUBCE 2026 - Marisa GROENESTEGE - Advancing the Impact of Multi-Criteria Sustainability Assessments of Bio-Based Value Chains

Advancing the Impact of Multi-Criteria Sustainability Assessments of Bio-Based Value Chains

Short Introductive summary

With the growing bioeconomy, assessing the sustainability of bio-based value chains has become increasingly important. While Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) is well-suited for this task, due to its ability to integrate multiple sustainability dimensions and stakeholder perspectives, its real-world impact often remains limited. Many frameworks are either methodologically advanced but lack real-world relevance and applicability, or practical but lacking a strong scientific basis. MCDA results are also often not understandable and actionable for stakeholders. This paper addresses this gap by reviewing both academic and grey literature on MCDA frameworks for bio-based value chains, combining methodological insights with practitioner perspectives. Based on these insights, a participatory MCDA framework is presented with the aim of improving usability and impact through stronger stakeholder involvement throughout the assessment process and clear communication of results, to better support sustainable decision-making in the bioeconomy.

M. Groenestege, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, GERMANY
I. Lewandowski, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, GERMANY
N. Rettenmaier, ifeu gGmbH: Institut für Energie- und Umweltforschung, Heidelberg, GERMANY
H. Keller, ifeu gGmbH: Institut für Energie- und Umweltforschung, Heidelberg, GERMANY
J. Weik, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, GERMANY