Abstract

ABSTRACTAs the sustainable forest biomass harvesting process is highly influenced by the terrain, the heterogeneity, and the protection status of the landscape, this study highlights the GIS and Remote Sensing as important scientific tools, assisting in the planning process and integrating the appropriate spatial limitations for an ecological forest biomass extraction in a rational bioenergy utilization framework. This study is focused on the northwest Greece and particularly in the regional unit of Grevena which is part of the Western Macedonia region, the region with the highest unemployment rates in Greece. As the forests in the regional unit of Grevena occupy a significant percentage over half of the regional unit area, the emphasis on the sustainable harvesting and utilization of forest biomass for energy purposes could tackle unemployment rates, enhance the energy autonomy of the remote mountain villages, and reduce the Mediterranean forest fire risk. The spatial data process and the implied spatial limitations unfold a methodology procedure, which is revealing specifically quantified and illustrated results as are emerging progressively the oak forests of the regional unit of Grevena with biomass harvesting capabilities, which do not belong to the Grevena’s protected areas, have accessible slopes and lower diversity index.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.