Sustainable bioenergy potential in Zambia: an integrated bioenergy food security assessment

This report identifies viable bioenergy options for electricity production, cooking fuels, and transport fuels in Zambia, including options from crop residues, livestock residues, and forest plantation harvesting residues.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 271 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2021
Publisher: Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

This comprehensive report examines the potential of various bioenergy options to serve as sustainable solutions for electricity production, cooking fuels, and transportation fuels in Zambia. It identifies viable alternatives derived from crop residues, livestock residues, and forest plantation harvesting residues.

The study assesses the economic, environmental, and social implications of each option, considering factors such as resource availability, energy conversion efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, and local community impacts. It also explores the potential for integration with existing energy systems and infrastructure, as well as the potential for rural development and job creation.

The report concludes by highlighting the most promising bioenergy options for Zambia and recommending strategies for their implementation, including policy interventions, research and development, and capacity building.

Introduction:
Zambia faces significant challenges in meeting its energy needs, particularly in the areas of electricity production, cooking fuels, and transportation fuels. The country relies heavily on fossil fuels, which contribute to environmental degradation, air pollution, and climate change. However, there is growing recognition of the potential of bioenergy to provide sustainable and renewable alternatives to fossil fuels.

Objectives:
The primary objectives of this report are to:

• Identify viable bioenergy options for electricity production, cooking fuels, and transportation fuels in Zambia.


• Assess the economic, environmental, and social implications of each option.


• Explore the potential for integration with existing energy systems and infrastructure.


• Recommend strategies for implementing bioenergy options in Zambia, including policy interventions, research and development, and capacity building.

Methodology:
The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research methods. Primary data was collected through interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions with key stakeholders, including government officials, energy sector professionals, farmers, and community representatives. Secondary data was obtained from relevant literature, reports, and databases.

Results:
The report identifies several viable bioenergy options for Zambia, including:

• Biogas production from agricultural waste and livestock manure.


• Wood pellets production from forest plantation harvesting residues.


• Electricity production from solar photovoltaic panels.


• Cooking fuels production from bioethanol derived from agricultural waste.


• Transport fuels production from biodiesel derived from vegetable oils.

Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of which option to pursue will depend on various factors, including resource availability, economic viability, and environmental impact.

Economic Implications:
Bioenergy can provide significant economic benefits to Zambia, including job creation, rural development, and increased energy security. The production of bioenergy can create employment opportunities in the agriculture, forestry, and energy sectors, particularly in rural areas. Additionally, bioenergy can reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, saving the country significant foreign exchange reserves.

Environmental Implications:
However, bioenergy production also has environmental implications. The use of agricultural land for bioenergy production can lead to land degradation, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. Additionally, the production of biofuels can increase greenhouse gas emissions, particularly if the feedstocks are not sustainably sourced.

Social Implications:
Bioenergy production can also have social implications, particularly in terms of access to energy and food security. If bioenergy is not developed and implemented in a socially responsible manner, it can exacerbate existing inequalities and marginalize vulnerable communities.

Integration with Existing Energy Systems:
To ensure the successful integration of bioenergy into existing energy systems, it is important to develop policies and regulations that promote sustainable development and protect the environment. Additionally, there is a need for investment in infrastructure, such as energy storage systems and transmission lines, to facilitate the transmission and distribution of bioenergy.

Recommendations:
Based on the findings of this report, the following recommendations are made:

• The government should prioritize the development of bioenergy as a sustainable solution for electricity production, cooking fuels, and transportation fuels in Zambia.


• The government should develop policies and regulations that promote sustainable bioenergy development, including incentives for farmers and investors.


• The government should invest in research and development to improve the efficiency and sustainability of bioenergy technologies.


• The government should promote the integration of bioenergy with existing energy systems, including the development of renewable energy grids.


• The government should prioritize the development of rural infrastructure, including energy access and transportation networks, to support the implementation of bioenergy options.

In conclusion, this comprehensive report examines the potential of various bioenergy options to serve as sustainable solutions for electricity production, cooking fuels, and transportation fuels in Zambia. The study identifies viable alternatives derived from crop residues, livestock residues, and forest plantation harvesting residues. The report assesses the economic, environmental, and social implications of each option, considering factors such as resource availability, energy conversion efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, and local community impacts. The report concludes by highlighting the most promising bioenergy options for Zambia and recommending strategies for their implementation, including policy interventions, research and development, and capacity building. By prioritizing the development of bioenergy, Zambia can contribute to the global effort to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

Weight: 780g
Dimension: 208 x 296 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789251334744