Biomass as a renewable energy source is one of the options to secure energy supply and to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from fossil fuels in response to the climate change threat. Biomass is the Number 1 energy resource for developing countries.

Depending on the land use scenario and technological progress, the potential contribution of biomass to satisfying the global energy demand varies greatly. Including a wide range of resources, like wastes and residues, surplus forestry, and dedicated energy crops on unrestricted land, potentials are much higher. Including biomass production on marginal and degraded land and gains from improved agricultural management could satisfy today’s global energy demand from renewable resources.

It is essential to consider these global estimates in the context of the countries in question, but it appears that there are substantial underused resources which could provide beneficial renewable energy in sustainably managed scenarios. Some recommendations and points of caution are made with regard to the potential climate and ecosystem benefits and also negative impacts arising from biomass energy. Biomass is a renewable energy source because its supplies are not limited. The approaches for carbon balance and greenhouse gas (GHG) benefits, studies are generic and need adaptation to the Indian and other biomass centric countries situation.