Increased utilization of different tree parts for energy purposes in the Nordic countries

Abstract

The review gives an overview of the increased utilization of forest biomass for energy. The emphasis is on Nordic countries, especially on Sweden and Finland with large biomass potentials and a high share of renewable energy in gross final energy consumption. The utilization and potential of forest chip sources such as logging residues, small-size tree stems and stumps that are normally not harvested in conventional harvesting are described. Environmental potential and impacts that may reduce the utilization of forest biomass are discussed based on recent publications. Finally, the review summarizes the future developments based on their relationship to policies, certifications and guidelines and forest owners' decisions.

Keywords:

• bioenergy
• biomass
• carbon
• logging residues
• nutrients
• stumps

Acknowledgement

We thank Michael Bailey who revised the English language.

Funding

We are grateful to the Maj and Tor Nessling Foundation for partial funding of the Finnish work.

Additional information

Funding

Funding: We are grateful to the Maj and Tor Nessling Foundation for partial funding of the Finnish work.