Land available for biomass crop production in Hawaii

Abstract

A geographical information system is being used to facilitate the evaluation of land available for consideration as biomass production areas in Hawaii. The method developed by the authors to assess land availability was tested previously in a case study of the island of Molokai. This paper extends the analysis to the islands of Hawaii, Kauai, Maui and Molokai. The results are applicable to private landowners, government officials, and others involved in land-use decisions on the potential of biomass crops. The concept of establishing a state-wide ‘Strategic Biomass Reserve’ of dedicated energy plantations to offset interruptions in imported oil supply is proposed.