20 Apr 2010 09:00 - 22 Apr 2010 12:00
Biomass has an enormous potential.
In theory there is sufficient biomass to cover the annual worldwide demand for energy three times. In many countries there is, next to the growth of energy crops, a lot of biomass material available, such as trimming wood and other waste wood, dung and crop waste. This available biomass can and will be made use of more effectively. That is since biomass provides sustainable energy and reduces the demand for fossil fuels. However, in the process of valorising, scaling up, valuing and processing biomass the techniques that are used are essential. Only proper techniques may prevent excessive costs raisings (financial and ecological) and will enable the densification of energy. In fact it is all about converting biomass into an energy carrier with high energetic value, such as electricity, warmth, gas or oil.
Future objectives
On a European level and on national levels sustainability objectives have been formulated. For instance in the Netherlands the national government aims at generating 10% of all energy consumption in a sustainable way by 2020. Biomass plays an important role therein, but proof is required that this biomass is sustainable.
On 20 April 2010, Wageningen University will organise an interactive course with the main focus on Biorefinery.