Biofuels from Forest Logging Residues

Forests are very large carbon sinks storing the highest density of biomass carbon and thus the biomass feedstock, necessary for biofuel production. The conversion of logging residues that are usually left on the forest floor such as tops, limbs, and branches to biofuels is very economical from the perspective of the rapid renewability of forest residues and has a positive impact on climate mitigation by complementing fossil fuels. The most favored use of logging residues are for pellet and briquette production. With an increasing global population and an increase in energy demand, research and innovation will continue to place options for integrating energy sources. Rather than competing with other energy sources, post-logging residues are projected to continue to play an increasingly important role in complementing emerging green energy sources. With continued technological advances, post-logging forest residues will become a resource that supports global moves toward sustainable practices and climate mitigation.