Table 3 Drivers and barriers to the CE concept implementation for the Thai cassava starch production process (CSPP)

Technology

1. A mature biogas conversion technology with full commercial deployment in Thailand

1. Limitations of pretreatment technology

Solution:

Develop low investment and operating cost, high efficiency pretreatment technology for lignocellulosic materials

2. Availability of cassava pulp as waste

Solution:

Develop biogas conversion technology for flexible substrates

3. Lack of a successful model of biogas production from cassava pulp

Solution:

Disseminate the successful models of biogas production from cassava pulp to the industry

Economic

1. Production cost reduction from replacing electricity and fuel oil

2. Revenue earned from selling biogas to grid

1. High investment cost of biogas system

Solution:

Provide government tax relief, benefits and financial support

2. Lack of incentive

Solution:

Create new incentives for high efficiency biogas conversion technology

Regulatory

1. Adoption of Paris Agreement in Thailand

2. Waste and wastewater treatment laws

1. Lack of a conducive legal system

Solution:

Establish one stop service organization for biogas investment

2. Limitation of government support

Solution:

Improve the Alternative Energy Development Plan to support biogas production from cassava pulp

Social responsibility

1. Expansion of communities close to industry

1. Lack of environmental concern from the investors

Solution:

Strictly enforce environmental laws and establish an organization to disseminate knowledge and make policy recommendations for biogas production and educate the public.