Sustainable biomass for the production of hydrogen: an assessment based on the climate challenge.
Abstract
The green sector (forest, nature and urbangreen managers) and the policymakers need a scientific evidence- based underpinning of the use of biomass (branch and top timber) as a sustainable raw material for bio-energy production. There is a case, Leisurelands, which aims to convert this biomass into hydrogen as a biofuel. The aim of the literature research is to visualize the sustainability effects of the use of top and branch timber and pruning wood for the production of hydrogen and, if possible, formulating criteria and points for attention (the do's and the don'ts). On the one hand, we look at the impact of the case on the ecosystem and on the other hand the role of the case in the energy and bio-economy transition. The use of wood for renewable energy is controversial with supporters and opponents. In the information sources used, the occurrence of overuse is not questioned. Discussion is about the conditions on which overuse can be prevented. Due to climate changes, there is a high time pressure to realize new energy systems, by acting, innovating and learning. By investing now in small-scale, innovative hydrogen production with biomass (as a temporary raw material), the local introduction of the hydrogen economy can be promoted. It is expected that other sources for hydrogen will take over within decades. The required biomass infrastructure could maintain its value when timely next steps are taken towards green chemistry or other higher-value applications.