Bioenergy

Our Approach

The use of biomass as a low carbon source of energy can play a role in the fight against climate change, but it can raise implications for land uses such as farming and forestry.

The bioenergy industry provides opportunities for more rural employment and can contribute to a sustainable and dynamic economy. Getting bioenergy developments right can help Scotland's nature and landscapes but they can also result in adverse effects on nature, landscapes, soils and water quality. The potential of bioenergy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels can vary depending on things like the previous land use (where raw materials are produced), the type of raw materials and the management of these, and the transport used. Bioenergy developments in Scotland can also require imported raw materials, which can drive land use change overseas. 

Our approach to bioenergy is described in Bioenergy and the natural heritage.

SEA consultation

In preparing Bioenergy and the Natural Heritage, SNH undertook a Strategic Environmental Assessment to assess its potential environmental effect. SNH undertook a public consultation between April and August 2007, both on the draft Bioenergy and the Natural Heritage and on the Environmental Report, which describes the environmental effects of the proposed approach to bioenergy.

You can download an analysis of the responses  .

The review and consultation proved valuable in helping to refine our views and improve Bioenergy and the Natural Heritage.

The SEA Adoption Statement  sets out the changes we have made following this consultation.

Guidance

We do not have any specific guidance on bioenergy.

The main environmental impacts of bioenergy are associated with the production of raw materials in the wider countryside. In Scotland, forestry provides an important source of potential materials. The UK Forestry Standard and associated guidelines will help mitigate against potential environmental impacts associated with the production of raw materials. Research is underway to better understand the implication of bioenergy for land management and resulting effects on the environment.

Some guidance on impacts is provided in Bioenergy and the natural heritage and further guidance is contained in the publications listed below.

• Local Environmental impacts of forest woodfuel harvesting in Scotland, Guidance Note Highland Birchwoods. 
• Guidance on site selection for brash removal, Farnham, Forest Research. 
• Bioenergy: environmental impacts and best practice, Wildlife and Countryside Link. 
• Minimising greenhouse gas emissions from biomass energy generation  .
• The Gallagher Review of the indirect effects of biofuels production, Renewable Fuels Agency.   

Use Green Heat

Use Green Heat   is a partnership of renewable heat advice, including biomass heat, funded through the European Structural Fund Programme.

It offers a dedicated enquiry point for all interested in renewable heat in the Highlands, Moray and Argyll.

Contact

Cecile Smith

cecile.smith@snh.gov.uk 0141 9510805