Advantages and disadvantages of biomass

Advantages

• It allows to eliminate organic and inorganic waste, while giving them a utility.
• It is a renewable energy source.
• It is a non-polluting energy source.
• Reduction of CO2 emissions.
• Although for the energy use of this renewable source we have to proceed to combustion, and the result thereof is water and CO2, the amount of this gas that causes the greenhouse effect can be considered to be the same amount that was captured by the plants during their growth. That is to say, it does not suppose an increase of this gas to the atmosphere.
• It does not emit sulfur or nitrogen pollutants, nor hardly any solid particles.
• If waste from other activities such as biomass is used, this translates into recycling and waste reduction. It channels, therefore, agricultural food surpluses, allowing the use of set-aside lands.
• Energy crops will replace surplus crops in the food market. That may offer a new opportunity to the agricultural sector.
• It allows the introduction of crops of great rotational value as opposed to cereal monocultures.
• It can cause an economic increase in rural areas.
• Decreases external dependence on fuel supply.

Disadvantages

• Incineration can be dangerous, as it produces the emission of toxic substances. For this reason, filters must be used and combustion carried out at temperatures higher than 900 ºC.
• There are not too many suitable places for its advantageous use.