biomassan

Biomassen, commonly translated as biomass, refers to the total mass of organic matter derived from living or recently living organisms. It includes plant material such as wood, crop residues, and dedicated energy crops; aquatic biomass such as algae; soil organic matter; and organic waste from households and industry. Biomass is considered renewable when harvested and regenerated at a rate that matches or exceeds its consumption, and it can contribute to a closed carbon cycle if managed sustainably.

In energy systems, biomassen serves as a source of heat, electricity, liquid biofuels, and biogas. Conversion methods range from direct combustion of solid fuels (wood and pellets) to biochemical processes such as fermentation and anaerobic digestion, which produce bioethanol, biogas, and digestates. Thermochemical routes—gasification and pyrolysis—yield syngas, bio-oil, and charcoal. Biomass is also used as a feedstock for biobased materials, chemicals, and construction products.

Environmental considerations include greenhouse gas balance, land and water use, nutrient cycling, and impacts on biodiversity. Sustainable biomass relies on responsible feedstock choices, efficient supply chains, and certification schemes to avoid deforestation, soil loss, and competition with food production. Lifecycle assessments compare emissions and energy return on investment with those of fossil fuels and other renewables, informing policy and investment decisions.

Common measurements include mass (tonnes) and energy content (megajoules per kilogram, MJ/kg). Differences between wet and dry mass, moisture content, and ash influence energy yield and handling. Policy frameworks and market mechanisms often require sustainability criteria and traceability to ensure that biomass contributes to climate and resource efficiency goals.