Life cycle assessment of biogas infrastructure options on a regional scale

► Biogas utilization for CHP incurs the least overall environmental impact only when high utilization of heat is achieved. ► When high utilization of heat cannot be achieved, upgrading to transport fuel present the best option. ► Displacement of natural gas does not represent the most favourable environmental option. ► Transportation of waste materials to the plant has a relatively small effect on the overall environmental impact. ► Releases of methane during upgrading can have a significant effect on the overall impact.