Combining bioenergy and nature conservation: An example in wetlands

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.