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EUBCE 2026 - Mirjam ROEDER - When Neutral Isn’t Balanced: Why Accurate Biogenic Carbon Accounting Matters

When Neutral Isn’t Balanced: Why Accurate Biogenic Carbon Accounting Matters

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Carbon accounting for the bioeconomy

When Neutral Isn’t Balanced: Why Accurate Biogenic Carbon Accounting Matters

Short Introductive summary

Biogenic carbon is not “neutral” by default. Its impact on the climate depends on when, where, and how it is accounted. This research shows that ignoring the temporal and spatial dynamics of biogenic carbon results in unaccounted emissions and overestimated removal claims. Precise biogenic carbon accounting is not merely a technical detail; it is essential for credible mitigation. Biogenic carbon should be recognised as more than just biomass; it is an active part of the carbon cycle, and how it is managed directly affects whether climate actions provide real atmospheric benefits or create the illusion of progress. Inconsistent accounting not only distorts figures, but also alters how we understand, value, and respond to climate solutions.

Presenter

Moderator portrait

Mirjam ROEDER

Aston University, Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute, UNITED KINGDOM

Presenter's biography

Professor Mirjam Roeder is an internationally recognised expert in sustainability, with a research portfolio that spans bioenergy systems, carbon removal technologies, and evidence-based policy design.

Biographies and Short introductive summaries are supplied directly by presenters and are published here unedited


Co-authors:

C. Gomez, Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute, Aston University, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM
D. Taylor, Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute, Aston University, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM
K. Chong, Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute, Aston University, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM
P. Thornley, Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute, Aston University, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM
M. Röder, Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute, Aston University, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM

Session reference: 2BV.1.3