Water and bioenergy – UNEP bioenergy issue paper series No. 2

Feb 2010

Bioenergy and water are inextricably linked. Water is an emerging issue of concern in the area of bioenergy development both in terms of quantity and quality. As a limiting factor, water will undoubtedly affect the level to which bioenergy can contribute to the overall energy mix. Especially in areas with scarce water resources bioenergy production can add on existing water stress and increase environmental and social impacts.
Moreover, there are potential impacts that come with increased bioenergy production with regard to water quality. Like any other agricultural and industrial production system, bioenergy production has an impact on water quality.
Well chosen feedstocks, sustainable agricultural production and an overall life-cycle analysis are elements to assist in achieving sustainable water use and management in bioenergy production.

By: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

 
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