Master Thesis: LCA of Circular Economy Strategies for Biogenic Waste in Bavaria

Master Thesis: LCA of Circular Economy Strategies for Biogenic Waste in Bavaria

06.02.2025, Diplomarbeiten, Bachelor- und Masterarbeiten

This Master’s thesis explores circular economy strategies for biogenic waste in Bavaria using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The research builds on an ongoing project, analyzing biomass flows and innovative utilization pathways like pyrolysis and gasification. The student will conduct a literature search, perform an LCA, and compare current vs. future waste management strategies. Applicants should have a background in sustainability, familiarity with LCA/MFA, and an interest in bioeconomy.

Master’s Thesis Opportunity:
LCA of Circular Economy Strategies for Biogenic Waste in Bavaria

Background

Bavaria’s bioeconomy strategy aims to transition from fossil-based to bio-based economic practices. As part of this effort, a collaborative project has been launched to develop a scientifically grounded Bavarian Biomass Resource Strategy (BioReSt). The objective is to collect data on biomass flows in Bavaria and develop economically and ecologically viable approaches for their provision, utilization, and circular management. The Chair of Circular Economy focuses specifically on organic waste streams, employing methodologies such as material flow analysis (MFA), potential analysis, life cycle assessment (LCA), and strategy development.

Research Tasks

• Conducting a literature search on higher-value circular economy production processes and innovative use cases.
• Conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate environmental impacts.
• Performing a comparative analysis of current vs. future utilization pathways for biogenic waste (e.g., composting, energetic recovery, pyrolysis, gasification).

Requirements

• Background in environmental sciences, sustainability, industrial ecology, or a related field.
• Familiarity with Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Material Flow Analysis (MFA).
• Experience with LCA software (e.g., Brightway, Activity Browser) is an advantage.
• Student of Campus Straubing; TUM School of Life Sciences or Management.

Application Details

Interested students should send their application, including a short motivation letter, CV, and transcript of records, to jan.moritz.dittmar@tum.de by Sunday, 23rd February (23.02.2024).

For further inquiries, please contact:

Moritz Dittmar, M.Sc.
Professorship Circular Economy
Am Essigberg 3
94315 Straubing
jan.moritz.dittmar@tum.de

Kontakt: jan.moritz.dittmar@tum.de