This chapter, part of the synthesis of the SCOPE Bioenergy & Sustainability volume, presents a selection of some of the key numbers that substantiate the key findings of the assessment.
Substantive evidence exists that many bioenergy cropping systems can bring multiple benefits and off-set environmental problems associated with fossil fuels, intensive food production and urbanization. As for any other developmental change, however, this does not mean that bioenergy does not present any risks, but rather that such risks can be managed through the adoption of appropriate policies, promotion of suitable energy feedstocks, and management practices.
This chapter presents a summary of data on current use and expansion of bioenergy as well as aspects that constrain the realization of its multiple benefits. It shows that biomass currently contributes about 10% of primary energy globally, 62 EJ, about 40 EJ of which involves traditional bioenergy used mostly for household cooking. Liquid biofuels contribute another 4.2 EJ. The leading producer in 2012 was the USA, followed by Brazil, China, the EU and Canada.
Non-traditional biomass is expected to grow from 526 million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe) in 2010 to nearly 1,200 Mtoe by 2035, growing at a rate of 3.3% per year. Between 2005-2013, there was a three- and four-fold increase in production of wood pellets for electricity, heat, or combined heat and power (CHP), and of liquid fuels for transport. Gaseous biofuels had an average growth rate of 15% per year, while liquid biofuels grew at a 12% annual rate between 1990 and 2008.
The chapter also provides data on current land use for bioenergy production; available land and potential for increased production, globally and regionally; and environmental, social and economic impacts of bioenergy production.
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