International bioenergy synthesis—Lessons learned and opportunities for the western United States

This synthesis examines international opportunities for utilizing biomass for energy at several different scales, with an emphasis on larger scale electrical power generation at stand-alone facilities as well as smaller scale thermal heating applications such as those at governmental, educational, or other institutional facilities. It identifies barriers that can inhibit bioenergy applications, and considers international cases of successful bioenergy production with a focus on Europe and Brazil. Based on the review of international bioenergy applications, important ecosystem service issues having relevance to western U.S. forests are discussed, including hazardous fuel reduction, community development, and sustainability of the wood products industry.