Benefits of Biomass-new possibility for European manufacturers

EUBA highlights benefits of First-Generation Biomass: The European Bioeconomy Alliance (EUBA) has announced the release of a new expert paper by the nova-Institute, titled “Benefits of Using First-Generation Biomass for Food, Fuels, Chemicals and Derived Materials in Europe: Science-based Argumentation Paper.” While second-generation biomass is widely supported, first-generation feedstocks are typically more cost-effective and easier to scale, enabling faster progress towards decarbonisation. The nova-Institute further notes that food crops are among the most efficient uses of land for producing starch, sugar and plant oils. Maximising productivity per hectare reduces the overall area required for agriculture, leaving more land available for nature and biodiversity protection. The study finds that: - Using food crops for bio-based fuels and materials strengthens farmers’ income and market stability. - It can improve food security via protein-rich by-products and potential emergency reserves. - First-generation biomass is cost-effective, scalable, and crucial for defossilising industry. - High crop yields mean less land use overall, leaving more room for biodiversity.