Can Forest Biomass be Used Sustainably for Energy?

Yes, but only with thoughtful federal policies that promote both the production of bioenergy and holistic forest stewardship objectives.

Residues from logging, forest restoration, fuel reduction, infestation control, and other forest management activities can be used as renewable alternatives to the fossil fuels that emit greenhouse gases and contribute to climate change. New energy markets for these materials can provide economic opportunities for forest landowners and communities, reducing the financial pressure to clear working forests for development. However, there is also the potential for increased demand to drive unsustainable levels of harvesting, with negative consequences for biodiversity, soil, and water conservation.

The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) recently published a paper outlining policy recommendations to support a sustainable forest bioenergy industry that will help communities across the nation meet economic, energy, and environmental objectives. This paper is the end product of a two-year initiative in which EESI convened a discussion series with scientists, community groups, foresters, environmental advocates, federal agencies, and other experts to explore the opportunities and problems associated with greater use of woody biomass for energy. The policy recommendations come at a timely moment, as Congress and stakeholders debate how best to incorporate sustainability measures into the national Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), and pending climate and energy legislation that includes a proposed national Renewable Electricity Standard (RES).

More information on EESI’s Sustainable Forest Biomass Initiative is available here .