Environmental Impacts of Bio-Energy

The environmental impacts of biofuel production and utilization are surveyed. Adverse effects associated with the conversion and utilization of urban or industrial wastes, energy crops, logging residues, animal wastes, and crop residues are cited. Major impacts of conversion technologies are identified as air pollutant emissions, solid waste generation, water pollution, and occupational hazards. The extent of these impacts stemming from biological and pyrolytic conversion processes is considered, and remedial measures are recommended. The recognition of the environmental disruption potential of bioenergy should be an important factor in planning alternative energy programs based on biomass.