The term biomass refers to substances of vegetable and animal origin derived from the waste products of agricultural process, livestock waste, wood scraps and products, special energy crops or from the production of waste and biogas for the purpose of combustion.

In terms of emission, they are neutral sources given that the carbon released during combustion is equal to that stored during their growth.

The term bioenergy refers to the technologies through which biomass is produced, collected, converted and used as an energy source. There are different ways of converting biomass that create solid, liquid or gas fuels. These fuels can be used for all energy needs, including heat, electricity and transportation.

Currently, biomass is the most used renewable energy source on a worldwide level, though it is often used in a low-quality, inefficient way in developing countries. However, it has the potential to provide for a great part of the world's energy needs in upcoming decades, helping to stabilizing the emissions of carbon dioxide and other gases responsible for the greenhouse effect.

The advantages of bioenergy

• Biomasses are widely available and in large quantities
  
• Reduce dependence on imported energy sources and therefore foster the security of supplies
  
• Help to mitigate climate change
  
• Offer considerable long-term potential, especially if the waste is appropriately treated and "dedicated" crops are created
  
• The biofuels are generally biodegradable, non-toxic and can be easily stored and used to produce energy only when needed.
  

• They provide important opportunities for creating jobs in rural areas and in small and medium businesses, fostering the development of local communities.