Bioenergy, the carbon cycle and climate change mitigation
While burning biofuels emits carbon dioxide (CO₂) just like fossil fuels, their climate impacts are fundamentally different. Fossil fuels release carbon that has been locked underground for millions of years, adding new CO₂ to the atmosphere. In contrast, bioenergy returns carbon that was recently absorbed by plants, potentially creating a closed carbon loop—if managed sustainably.
The effectiveness of bioenergy in mitigating climate change depends on three main factors:
- how much fossil carbon it displaces,
- how it influences carbon storage in ecosystems and bio-based products,
- and whether its CO₂ emissions are captured and stored (BECCS) or reused (BECCU).
However, these benefits are not guaranteed. Unsustainable land use, deforestation, or inefficient supply chains can reduce or even reverse the climate gains. That’s why it’s essential to evaluate the full carbon cycle impact of bioenergy systems. With careful planning and policies, bioenergy can be a valuable tool for limiting the rise in atmospheric CO₂ and supporting the transition to a low-carbon future.
“Bioenergy, the carbon cycle and climate change mitigation” is the third in a series of factsheets prepared by IEA Bioenergy. These factsheets aim to inform and engage readers by addressing the key issues related to bioenergy, fostering greater awareness of its potential and challenges. Through these resources, IEA Bioenergy seeks to bridge the knowledge gap and promote the adoption of bioenergy solutions in the context of a global shift towards renewable energy.
Bioenergy, the carbon cycle and climate change mitigation – Download the factsheet
