Sustainable Bioenergy

In Bangladesh � Former sugar cane lands can return to production without competing with land used for food crops.

Bioenergy systems can be developed in many ways. Some are sustainable, strengthen local economies and improve resources management; others do not. Drawing on Winrock�s experience, the Bioenergy Innovation Program is building capacity and improving understanding of essential elements of sustainability.

Winrock bioenergy projects consider life cycle inputs and outputs as well as competing uses for land, nutrients and water.

Land and water will be needed for various uses, such as to sustain biodiversity, to meet food production, and to produce biofuels. In many instances, these categories will overlap, for example, food production with bioenergy from residues.

The ability to quantify environmental and social benefits can lead to new sources of investment in present and future generations of bioenergy technology. Governments or companies may invest in bioenergy systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or increase carbon stocks in vegetation.