Introduction to Biorefining

Discover the role of biorefining, biomass, and sustainability in the bioeconomy

Ever wondered how farm crops, food waste, or leftover plant materials can become biofuels, bioplastics, or other valuable products?

This six-week course from Aberystwyth University takes you on a guided journey through the world of biorefining, showing how land and businesses can turn biomass into opportunities for a sustainable, circular bioeconomy.

With the support of UK-focused examples, you’ll explore real-world ways farmers, entrepreneurs, and businesses can reduce waste, create new products, and contribute to climate-friendly solutions.

Start with the basics of biorefining

You’ll start this course by exploring the basics of biorefining and why it matters.

Then you’ll go into further detail about the key processes integrated biorefineries, like straw being turned into bioplastics, to food waste becoming biofuels, and how each can create new revenue streams.

At this point, you’ll also evaluate the economic and environmental impact of biomass sources to support sustainable land management and a circular bioeconomy.

Understanding feedstocks and practical applications

Next, you’ll learn which crops, residues, and by-products are most suitable for different land-based contexts.

Working with UK-focused case studies, you’ll practise assessing feedstocks and developing simple action plans that integrate biomass use and bio-based products into farms or enterprises.

Connect research with the real-world

Throughout the course, you’ll hear from researchers at IBERS, Aberystwyth University, who show how discoveries in enzymes, fermentation, and biomass conversion translate into practical strategies.

You’ll see how these insights help farmers and businesses make sustainable land-use decisions and tap into emerging bioindustry opportunities.

Ideal for farmers, advisers, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about using land and biological resources to create sustainable products and move away from fossil fuels.

Ideal for farmers, advisers, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about using land and biological resources to create sustainable products and move away from fossil fuels.

• Describe the role of biorefining in the circular bioeconomy, including key concepts, terminology, and UK-relevant drivers for innovation in land-based sectors.
• Identify and evaluate suitable biomass feedstocks for different applications and environments, considering agronomic, economic, and environmental factors.
• Explain key industrial biotechnology processes used in biorefining (e.g. fermentation, downstream processing), highlighting their purpose, benefits, limitations, and sustainability implications.
• Assess the challenges and opportunities facing bio-based industries, including policy, market trends, infrastructure, and environmental impact.
• Apply your learning to a real-world context by outlining how your land, business, or sector could engage with biorefining and contribute to the bioeconomy.