Glycerol that originates as a by-product from the production of biodiesel is a bio-based feedstock, which neither has the disadvantages of fossil resources nor can be used as food. It was studied in a life cycle assessment whether a use in the chemical industry leads to environmental advantages. The life cycle assessment of options of use of glycerol from the biodiesel production shows that a conventional material use without conversion is the environmentally most advantageous option. However, it is to be expected that not all glycerol can be used this way if the biodiesel production increases. In this case, innovative biotechnological conversions of glycerol to n-butanol or 1,3-propanediol as well as the use for energy production can be environmentally advantageous if especially the energy and resource efficiencies are further optimized.