Ric Hoefnagels

Ric Hoefnagels is an Assistant Professor at Utrecht University's Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, focusing on sustainable energy systems and bioeconomy transitions. His research examines biomass sustainability, circular economy strategies, and decarbonization pathways for hard-to-abate sectors.

His core research develops methodologies for assessing bioenergy sustainability and greenhouse gas footprints. He specializes in life cycle assessments of biobased products and spatial analyses of biomass potential, particularly investigating lignin valorization in construction materials and industrial pellet production.

Recent work explores hydrogen transport economics, bioenergy with carbon capture (BECCS), and regional biomass transition strategies. He actively contributes to IEA Bioenergy Task 40 initiatives and develops metrics for circular bioeconomy implementation.

Dr. Hoefnagels maintains collaborations addressing biomass logistics optimization and strategies for mobilizing low-value biomass resources within regional circular economies.