Work

Global meta-analysis of bioenergy crops reveals substantial greenhouse gas mitigation potential

Year: 2026

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: Bioenergy crops offer potential for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, although the global abatement potential across different land use types remains insufficiently researched. Based on a meta-analysis of 718 publications covering 74 species across 31 countries, this study quantified yield, GHG emissions, and mitigation potential under various land systems. Results reveal that land-crop configurations fundamentally determine GHG tradeoffs: croplands optimize synergies, (e.g., Miscanthus: 12.93 t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ yield, 4.14 t CO₂-eq ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ emissions), forests increase emissions despite high productivity, and wetlands perform poorly. Random forest modeling identified key drivers (e.g., clay content for yield, rotation frequency for emissions). Long-term projections show Miscanthus maintains robust productivity and stable emissions until 2050, while uncertainty rises for other crops. Strategic prioritization recommends Miscanthus on croplands/grasslands and avoidance of high-emission systems. The results underscore that scalable bioenergy deployment aligned with Paris Agreement targets requires context-specific land-crop matching and strict avoidance of high-emission types.

Source: Resources Conservation and Recycling

DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2026.108777

Authors: Ziyue Yu, Hang Han, Fan Zhang

Institutions: Nanjing Forestry University, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Bioenergy crop production and management

Subfield: Agronomy and Crop Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Zero hunger, Affordable and clean energy, Life on land, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,270