What's Happening?
A report by the Biobased and Biodegradable materials Regulatory Network (BB-REG-NET) has raised concerns about the sustainability of biomass production to meet current industrial energy demands. The report highlights the limited global biomass reserves
and stresses the need for policymakers to prioritize its use. Despite the potential for increased production, only a fraction of biomass capacity can be utilized without harming ecosystems or food security. The report suggests that sectors like chemicals and materials, which require carbon molecules, should be prioritized for biomass use, while others with viable alternatives should not rely on it.
Why It's Important?
The findings of the report have significant implications for energy policy and industry practices. Biomass is a critical resource for sectors that lack alternatives to biogenic carbon, such as chemicals and aviation. However, its limited availability necessitates strategic prioritization to ensure sustainable use. The report calls for clear guidelines to direct biomass where it can deliver the greatest strategic value, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to resource management. This is crucial for achieving energy security and sustainability goals, particularly as the UK imports a large portion of its industrial-use wood.
What's Next?
The report coincides with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero's consultation on a Common Biomass Sustainability Framework, which aims to improve sustainability criteria for biomass sourcing. This consultation provides an opportunity to embed prioritization principles alongside sustainability standards, ensuring biomass is directed to sectors where it offers the most strategic value. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the consultation, which is open until February 2026, to shape the future of biomass use in the UK.
