3-07: Scientific approaches for reducing cost barriers to sustainability

The authors provide a synthesis of recent empirical studies and economic model simulations addressing the sustainability of biomass supply. The results highlight costs, complexities and related barriers associated with demonstrating that biomass is sustainably sourced. Based on involvement with emerging certification programs, key barriers to sustainable biomass certification schemes are enumerated and factors for success identified. Despite uncertainties surrounding several elements of bioenergy sustainability, most studies and stakeholders agree on principles and practices that can increase the sustainability of biomass production relative to the status quo. It is essential to improve the scientific basis for assessing bioenergy production pathways with an emphasis on data collection, data quality and multi-disciplinary analysis. Case studies illustrate that performance-based incentives are more likely to achieve desired results if goals are clearly defined, measurable, and complemented by systematic monitoring, and if benefits are perceived to outweigh costs.