Environmental Impacts of Crop Straw Valorization from the LCA Perspective: A Case Study of Xinyang, China

In addressing the pivotal challenges of food security and environmental sustainability in China, this investigation rigorously assesses the lifecycle ramifications of quintuple straw utilization methodologies in Xinyang. Utilizing the comprehensive framework of life cycle assessment, the study meticulously examines a spectrum of twelve environmental indicators within a multitude of scenarios. Open-air straw burning shows a global warming potential (GWP) of 0.861 kg CO2-eq/kg straw, while soil incorporation and feed production yield net-negative GWP of −0.287 kg CO2-eq and −0.270 kg CO2-eq, respectively, demonstrating substantial climate mitigation benefits. Scenario simulations further indicate that redirecting unused straw to soil incorporation or feed production reduces regional GWP intensity by 15–25% versus business as usual, whereas prioritizing energy recovery delivers the greatest reductions in fine particulate matter formation and human toxicity. This research underscores the substantial environmental advantages that can be harnessed through the enhanced application of straw utilization strategies in Xinyang. It thoughtfully considers an array of factors, including the local availability of straw, prevailing usage patterns, and the intricacies of technical processes.