New SOMO-research bio-energy
14-03-2007
With such factors as the high oil prices and climate change, bio-energy is high on the international agenda. The bio-energy sector is a relatively young but rapidly growing sector. It is a diverse sector as there is a large variety of types of feedstock, production methods and uses. While bio-energy crops are produced and used worldwide there are clear differences between different regions. Most bio-energy is produced and used locally.
The sector is faced with a number of environmental and socio-economic issues, especially in the developing world. These issues, including deforestation and bad labour conditions, are in conflict with the image that is portrayed of bio-energy as a sustainable source of energy. And as trade in, and production of, biomass is growing worldwide so are the potential negative impacts and opportunities for producers. This SOMO Quick Scan gives an overview of the sector, lists a number of critical issues that the sector is faced with and suggests directions for further research.
