Room: Amazon
Date: Thursday, 21 May 2026
Time: 11:30 - 12:45 CEST
Session code 2CO.5
From sustainability assessments to social dimensions of biomass and bioenergy
Community-driven Bioenergy: Constellations of Acceptance
Short Introductive summary
Different types of bioenergy in different local contexts will invoke different social reactions. Social reactions can relate to the greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts of different bioenergy types, as well as environmental, economic and cultural considerations. Attaining and maintaining social acceptability is a key task for bioenergy projects. Reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 is a key motivator for advancing bioenergy projects globally. On the negative side, bioenergy has been challenged for reducing land available for food production and food security. A systematic review of recent (2023-2025) bioenergy publications about social impacts showed that the most common themes overall were ecological/environmental impacts, climate change, energy security, and employment. Engagement work by the two authors also showcases examples in Canada of where bioenergy has supported cultural revitalization, economic goals, food sovereignty, and fulfilment of intrinsic responsibilities.
Presenter
Bruno GAGNON
Natural Resources Canada, CANADA
Presenter's biography
Bruno Gagnon is manager of the bioeconomy team in the Canadian Forest Service at Natural Resources Canada. He represents Canada on the Integrated Biorefineries Mission and on IEA Bioenergy Task 43. Prior to joining the Government, Bruno worked as a consultant in sustainability services.
Biographies and Short introductive summaries are supplied directly by presenters and are published here unedited
Co-authors:
D. Assinewe, private consultant, Bonfield, CANADA
H. MacDonald, Natural Resources Canada, Sault Ste. Marie, CANADA
B. Gagnon, Natural Resources Canada, Sault Ste. Marie, CANADA
Session reference: 2CO.5.4