In this book, we talk about opportunities and challenges when it comes to harnessing the biomass potential. In other words, we consider ways through which bioenergy can contribute to global sustainable energy systems. What types of energy services can be provided and how? What needs to be addressed when implementing bioenergy systems? We do not try to be comprehensive but we do move about in the different realities of Europe and developing countries, where needs and demands can mean different things though the bioenergy benefits can be quite similar. We address resource management, markets, technological and institutional development, and policy issues.

Our major task is to show accomplishments and indicate possible directions. We also provide views of different stakeholders so that we can better understand their concerns and the specific roles they can play in the implementation of solutions. We are not proposing a business plan, but we are perhaps suggesting that we should be working on a strategic plan from which various business plans can be generated. Why do we need a broad framework to move forward? — Because the tasks are many, and the potential impacts, very significant. There is need for a multisectoral coordination of action, and that requires appropriate plans for timely and speedy moves, which prove effective in both short and long terms.

We are asking questions such as what the main forces enhancing bioenergy utilization are. Where and how are opportunities being sized, and how can ongoing initiatives be enhanced? What policies are being applied to foster biomass techno­logies, and how can they be improved? How can the environmental and social benefits of bioenergy be better highlighted and valued, in order to increase the bioenergy attractiveness? What are the challenges ahead and how should they be framed towards effective action? Thus, we are now beyond the question of whether biomass is an attractive and effective energy carrier. Our focus is not on the problems, but on the opportunities. We identify demands and questions related to next steps in developing bioenergy systems, and try to answer some of them by indicating possible solutions.

This chapter provides an introduction to the role of bioenergy in perspective and as it stands today, and a discussion of how bioenergy prospects can be realized and framed towards sustainable development. Throughout the book, the demands and prospects are further discussed, the role of accumulated knowledge and experience reviewed, and new tasks identified.

Chapters 2 to 4 explore policies to promote bioenergy utilization. In Chapter 2, Bauen discusses the policy framework in the European Union (EU), and gives exam­ples of how these policies are reflected in national action. Chapter 3 describes the Swedish experience, and ways through which bioenergy utilization can be enhanced in the country in the near future. In Chapter 4, Rakos addresses the issue of public acceptance to the introduction of district heating systems in Austrian villages, providing a concrete case to exemplify the effect of policies and technology dissemi­nation at the local level.

Chapters 5 to 7 are focused on the management of biomass resources and enhancement of biomass production. Rijal addresses relevant issues in the context of Himalayan Mountain Forests while Braunbeck et al. discuss ways to enhance the biomass base of cane production in Brazil. In Chapter 7, Silveira and Andersson discuss the integration of forestry and energy activities in Lithuania where Swedish experiences are providing the know-how basis for helping explore the local bioenergy potential.

Chapters 8 to 11 discuss ways to promote bioenergy utilization. Sandberg and Bernotat assess the potential for new district heating systems in three counties in Sweden. In Chapter 9, Walter et al. discuss how cofiring natural gas and biomass can be an interesting alternative both technically and commercially. Wijayatunga et al. show a feasibility study done for Sri Lanka where biomass is contemplated as an alternative for the provision of electricity. In Chapter 11, Thran et al. describe the international work within the EU aimed at standardization of biofuels as a tool to boost markets. These chapters are particularly relevant for the methodologies they present.

Chapters 12 to 16 discuss the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) to the Kyoto Protocol as a means of promoting bioenergy projects. Economic advantages, development priorities and climate change mitigation are addressed in Chapter 12. The emphasis, however, is given to aspects of project implementation. In Chapter 13, Kossoy discusses the CDM in a business context, particularly from a financial point of view. Chapters 14 to 16 provide examples of CDM projects in Brazil and Ghana.

Chapter 17 closes the book with some final considerations on the trade-offs involved in the choice of energy options, and the need for comprehensive strategies and systems integration to achieve the sustainability goals. Some considerations are also made about the platforms available for enhancing synergies and the ultimate value of energy projects. How can so many opportunities be combined effectively towards the realization of the bioenergy potential and sustainable development? What role can the developing countries play at a global level?