Is Biomass Energy a Boon or Bane for Society: A Comprehensive Analysis

In recent years, due to rising fossil fuel costs, the recycling and reuse of biomass into value-added applications have gained attention. There are several disposal concerns and governance problems as a result of the rapidly increasing amount of biomass waste. Over the past few years, the use of biomass for electricity production has increased across the globe. Energy systems reliant on biomass wastes have the potential to improve local energy access, generate employment opportunities and rural development in emerging economies, and aid in adapting and mitigating the influences of climate change. However, research has also shown that some biofuel production can lead to conflicts with the food supply and environmental issues. This review chapter is based on a thorough and extensive literature search and critical evaluation of previously published scholarly and non-scholarly material to discover a wide range of high-quality sources on biomass energy usage and its impact on the surrounding environment. Furthermore, inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on the importance of ensuring access to clean and affordable energy (SDG 7) and climate change mitigation (SGD 13), this chapter examines whether biomass energy is a blessing or a curse for society.