Forest biomass for energy in the EU: current trends, carbon balance and sustainable potential

This study aims to clarify possibilities and implications of woody bioenergy supply for the natural environment and climate for the EU by 2020 and 2030. For this, the amount of forest - derived and woody biomass is estimated that could be sustainably supplied for en ergy uses without compromising material uses of wood. Particular attention is given to biodiversity and GHG emissions implications of woody bioenergy supply. The role of sustainable woody bioenergy in the future EU energy system was then analyzed for electricity, heat and transport fuels, taking into account the potentials for energy efficiency, and non-bioenergy renewables.