LIDEA: trials to introduce lignocellulosic crops on farms

Against the backdrop of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, biomass production is becoming a key issue at both national and European level. Whilst wood, waste and co-products are the primary sources currently being utilised, it appears that the use of agricultural biomass is increasingly being considered as a complementary option. The LIDEA project has provided an initial assessment of the potential and feasibility of dedicated biomass crops, known as lignocellulosic crops. Multi-site agronomic trials, alongside economic and environmental studies, have helped to identify initial trends, notably: whilst technical feasibility appears to be established in most sectors, the economic viability is more uncertain and depends on the farming system and the relevant economic context. Competition with fossil fuels remains significant, and only through drastic optimisation can this biomass become competitive. Provided this condition is met, it could eventually cover several tens of thousands of hectares in Picardy and Champagne-Ardenne.