Sustainable bioenergy: a framework for decision makers |
Apr 2007
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This paper on sustainable bioenergy was drafted collectively by UN-Energy members , which include all of the United Nations agencies, programmes, and organizations working in the area of energy, reflecting their insights and expertise.
The paper points to key social, economic, and ecological sustainability issues raised by the rapid development of bioenergy in both small and large-scale applications. It encompasses the entire bioenergy value chain, from production to use, with the goal of providing a framework for decision makers who are considering adopting new policies or launching new investments in the bioenergy sector.
The paper encompasses all bioenergy systems but focuses in particular on modern bioenergy, which includes liquid biofuels, biogas, and solid biomass for heat and power generation.
Section 2 describes the role of bioenergy in the global energy context, including the potential benefits and trade-offs. Section 3 provides a framework for decision-makers to consider nine key sustainability issues facing bioenergy development:
- The ability of modern bioenergy to provide energy services for the poor;
- Implications for agro-industrial development and job creation;
- Health and gender implications;
- Implications for the structure of agriculture;
- Implications for food security;
- Implications for government budget;
- Implications for trade, foreign exchange balances, and energy security;
- Impacts on biodiversity and natural resource management; and
- Implications for climate change.
Section 5 provides a list of sources and suggestions for further reading.
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