Paper details

Title:

The Bioenergy and Water Nexus

Author(s):

Otto, M., Leagnavar, P., Malavelle, J., Metzler, J.

Document(s):

Abstract:

Bioenergy and water are inextricably linked. Given existing and increasing pressures on water resources due to a number of factors, water will as a limiting factor, undoubtedly affect the extent to which bioenergy will be part of the overall energy mix. Especially in areas with scarce water resources bioenergy production can add on existing water stress and increase environmental and social impacts. The emerging issues that we face in the allocation of this precious resource will be a principal development challenge in the short and medium term. Like any other agricultural and industrial production system, bioenergy production has an impact on water quality, as well. Well chosen feedstocks, sustainable agricultural production practices and an overall life­cycle analysis are elements to assist in achieving sustainable water use and management in bioenergy production. Complex as the issue is, water use and water quality have been largely overlooked within the bioenergy debate to date. In order for decision makers to make sound and scientifically appropriate policy decisions on bioenergy, further research on the water requirements and potential impacts of different bioenergy pathways needs to be conducted as well as communication about existing options, tools and resources improved.

Keywords:

agriculture, irrigation, run off, wastewater, water use, water quality

Topic:

Policies and ensuring sustainability

Subtopic:

Sustainability criteria of biofuels (session 2)

Event:

18th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition

Session:

OC6.4

Pages:

2044 - 2050

ISBN-13:

978-88-89407-56-1

ISBN-10:

88-89407-56-5

Paper DOI:

10.5071/18thEUBCE2010-OC6.4

Price:

FREE