A Critical Review on Lignocellulosic Biomass Yield Modeling and the Bioenergy Potential from Marginal Land

Abstract

Lignocellulosic biomass from marginal land is needed for a social–ecologically sustainable bioeconomy transition. However, how much biomass can be expected? This study addresses this question by reviewing the limitations of current biomass yield modeling for lignocellulosic crops on marginal land and deriving recommendations to overcome these limitations. It was found that on the input side of biomass yield models, geographically limited research and the lack of universally understood definitions impose challenges on data collection. The unrecognized complexity of marginal land, the use of generic crop growth models together with data from small-scale field trials and limited resolution further reduce the comparability of modeling results. On the output side of yield models, the resistance of modeled yields to future variations is highly limited by the missing incorporation of the risk of land use changes and climatic change. Moreover, several limitations come with the translation of modeled yields into bioenergy yields: the non-specification of conversion factors, a lack of conversion capacities, feedstock yield–quality tradeoffs, as well as slow progress in breeding and the difficulty of sustainability criteria integration into models. Intensified political support and enhancement of research on a broad range of issues might increase the consistency of future yield modeling.

Evaluation of eastern gamagrass as dual‐purpose complementary bioenergy and forage feedstock to switchgrass

“…Bioenergy is appealing as it can modulate undesirable impacts of fossil fuel production, as its utilization could slow down projections of greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the prospects of massive biomass production for bioenergy created expectations of tremendous benefits for the world's agricultural sectors, which could help to diversify and revitalize rural economies (Haberzettl et al, 2021; He et al, 2022; Yacobucci & Schnepf, 2007). However, the early enthusiasm about bioenergy became dampened by the realization of the competition of land for food, feed, and fiber versus bioenergy biomass (He et al, 2022; Lark et al, 2022).…”

“…In addition, the prospects of massive biomass production for bioenergy created expectations of tremendous benefits for the world's agricultural sectors, which could help to diversify and revitalize rural economies (Haberzettl et al, 2021;He et al, 2022;Yacobucci & Schnepf, 2007). However, the early enthusiasm about bioenergy became dampened by the realization of the competition of land for food, feed, and fiber versus bioenergy biomass (He et al, 2022;Lark et al, 2022). Afterall, the feedstocks that were being promoted for biofuels (e.g., grain starch, soybeans, canola, and palm oil) are the same crops cultivated worldwide for food and feed.…”

“…For example, eastern gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloides, GG) possesses similar appealing characteristics as SG for bioenergy feedstock use, including high biomass production, environmental protection, and enhancement of soil carbon sequestration (Krizek et al, 2002). GG and other grasses are gradually receiving attention as a potential bioenergy feedstock (Dzantor et al, 2015;He et al, 2022;Li et al, 2018). New studies are needed to understand field performance and biomass yield potential of GG in comparison to SG.…”

Chemical composition and bioactivity of hemp, reed canary grass and common reed grown on boreal marginal lands

“…13 While progress has been made, further advancements are needed to accurately model biomass yield and its stability on marginal lands, such as organic soils. 14 In fact, common reed (CR), reed canary grass (RCG), bre and oil hemp species (FH and OH) are among the most promising industrial crops for marginal lands. 15 Due to the effects of climate change and rising temperatures, biomass plants like RCG are better adapted to Europe's northern regions, which shows promise for cultivation in Finland's former peat production areas.…”

“…13 While progress has been made, further advancements are needed to accurately model biomass yield and its stability on marginal lands, such as organic soils. 14…”