Combining bioenergy and nature conservation: An example in wetlands. (September 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Melts, Indrek; Ivask, Mari; Geetha, Mohan; Takeuchi, Kazuhiko; Heinsoo, Katrin
• Is Part Of: Renewable & sustainable energy reviews. Volume 111(2019)
• Page Start: 293
• Page End: 302
• Publication Date: 2019-09
• Subjects: Bioenergy -- Ethanol -- Floodplain meadow -- Methane -- Common reed -- Reed canary grass -- Wetland -- Sustainable development; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Periodicals; Énergies renouvelables -- Périodiques; Ressources énergétiques -- Périodiques; 333.794
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2019.05.028
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-0321

Abstract

Abstract: Conservation and restoration are crucial to maintaining a wide range of functions and services in wetlands, but it is difficult to find a reasonable and resource-efficient management option without sacrificing ecological values. In the present paper, we analyse the variability and dynamics of the chemical composition and energy potential of biomass from reedbeds, floodplain meadows, coastal meadows and reed canary grass cultivation in extracted peatlands. We observed that the chemical characteristics that are crucial for bioenergy production vary by biomass origin and over time. The bioenergy potential depends on biomass production and on the conversion method. The results indicate that the energy potential ranges from 122 to 190 GJ/ha per year in semi-natural floodplain meadows in the boreal zone. About 160 GJ/ha per year can be obtained from natural reedbeds but only about 120 GJ/ha per year from cultivated extracted peatlands. Using methane conversion, we can obtain only about 50%, and using ethanol conversion we can obtain less than 20% of the total energy potential of the herbaceous biomass of floodplain meadows. Although long-term studies on homo- and heterogeneous biomass production are required, we conclude that the local biomass of natural, semi-natural and artificial wetlands could contribute significantly to sustainable development. Highlights: Bioenergy production is higher in natural vegetation than in cultivated wetlands. Carex spp. and Filipendula ulmaria are alternatives for wetland restoration. Chemical composition and methane potential differ by biomass origin and over time. Floodplain meadows have the highest energy potential among boreal zone wetlands. Biofuel yield is higher through methane than through ethanol conversion.