Bioenergy and rural development in developing countries: a review of existing studies

Jun 2008

Four broad types of studies on rural development and bioenergy technologies are identified. Within these four types, a number of existing studies are identified in this review in the context of developing a research focus on the role, feasibility and issues associated with bioenergy, and in particular, biofuels, as an engine for rural development in developing countries. The results and recommendations of the referenced studies highlight the importance of bioenergy technologies in the development process of poor rural communities.
While biofuels hold a huge economic potential as internationally traded commodities, the various issues and challenges facing biofuel production systems could indicate that in the context of developing economies, they are better suited for the domestic energy markets.
In the first part of this review, the different types of studies to date are identified with specific focus on biofuels/bioenergy and rural development in DCs; second, it groups the selected studies according to their type; and third, compiles lessons learnt. It also includes articles from journals and reports from known important sources (such as WB, OECD, UNDP, and BMZ/GTZ/BMBF) and identifies specific gaps which might generate opportunities for future development research.

By: N. Gerber (ZEF Bonn)

 
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