Bioenergy Europe acknowledges the European Commission's efforts with the measures it is proposing to combat climate change and biodiversity loss, and above all, welcomes the recognition of bioenergy as a necessary solution for energy generation. This reinforces our sector's commitment to being a key player in the EU's energy transition.
Bioenergy is a widely available and renewable energy source, and its use benefits everyone. It is the most widely used renewable energy source in the EU, accounting for almost 601 TP3T of total renewable energy consumption, and has an undeniable positive impact on the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions – by 71 TP3T in 2017.
Along with the environmental benefits, bioenergy provides a very positive socio-economic impact as it generates income throughout the production chain - from biomass suppliers to manufacturers and installers of combustion equipment - and the capacity to invest in innovation and to continue increasing the sustainability and respect for the environment of the industry.
Confusing terminology
However, Bioenergy Europe believes that the reference in the strategy to minimizing the use of certain raw materials, such as whole trees, will make it more difficult to comply with the already very strict criteria respected by the biomass sector.
The dynamics of the timber market ensure an efficient allocation of forest resources: the bioenergy sector buys what others leave behind, such as whole trees from thinning and clearing operations with little or no commercial value. High-quality timber, which is unaffordable for the bioenergy sector, is used to produce high-value products such as furniture or construction materials.
When it comes into force REDII directive In 2021, the bioenergy industry will have to meet its own specific sustainability criteria. These criteria already include how to manage timber while ensuring the protection of biodiversity. The industry is prepared for this moment and is ready to demonstrate its commitment to contributing to a carbon-neutral economy by 2050.
According to Jean-Marc Jossart, Secretary General of Bioenergy Europe, The biodiversity strategy places the EU at the forefront of the fight against climate change, but believes it is necessary “We must pay closer attention to the efforts made in recent years by the entire bioenergy value chain. Any strategy aimed at preserving biodiversity must be fully adopted, but also consistent with reality and avoid at all costs terminology that leads to confusion.”.
According to Javier Díaz, president of AVEBIOM, “"The new sustainability criteria will be easy to adopt in Spain, where forestry operations have been subject to very strict regulations for many years.".
Díaz believes it is essential that the objectives outlined in the PNIEC and in the future Climate Change Law and “"allow the commissioning of more biomass-fired power plants and maintain the positive evolution of the thermal biomass sector.". This, he affirms, “This would result in better maintenance of forest areas, prevention of forest fires, and the creation of employment and wealth in rural areas of our country.”.
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https://bioenergyeurope.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=249