Poland’s Ministry of Climate and Environment has announced plans to reduce support for biomass energy development, citing concerns about the long-term sustainability of the country’s wood resources, reports Bioenergy Insight.
The decision was revealed in response to a parliamentary inquiry submitted during a recent session of the Sejm, Poland’s lower house of parliament. Lawmakers had asked for clarification on the government’s position regarding the future of biomass energy projects.
In its official reply, the Ministry stated that the current pace of biomass energy expansion may not be sustainable, given the limitations of Poland’s forest resources. It stressed the need for a more cautious approach to biomass use in order to avoid over-exploitation and protect ecological balance.
Although biomass is part of Poland’s renewable energy mix, it currently accounts for only about 1.5% of the country’s electricity generation. This is relatively low compared to other renewable sources like wind and solar.
The move is in line with wider discussions taking place within the European Union over the sustainability of biomass. While the EU recognises some forms of biomass as renewable, there is growing debate over the carbon neutrality of burning biomass and its effects on forest ecosystem