New BirdLife Europe report says biomass for heating and cooling hurts enviornment

In Germany, a new BirdLife Europe report released reveals that the increasing reliance on biomass for heating and cooling in Europe is harming the climate more than helping it. The report highlights how bioenergy, particularly wood combustion, is far from carbon-neutral and poses serious environmental, economic, and health risks.

Biomass – organic material like wood, plants, or animal waste converted to energy – now provides about 20% of all heating energy in the EU, making it the most widely used “renewable” energy source in the sector. Between 2011 and 2023, the use of biomass for heating increased by 16%. According to national energy plans, 1/3 of all future renewable heating growth is set to come from bioenergy. This trend is clearly unsustainable and counterproductive if climate, health, and biodiversity goals are to be met.

Rather than relying on biomass, more sustainable heating and cooling options are already available. Heat pumps, especially when powered by wind or solar energy, offer highly efficient, low-emission heating for buildings of all sizes. District heating systems, particularly in urban areas, can tap into waste heat, geothermal, or large-scale heat pumps to supply entire neighbourhoods with clean energy. Additionally, improving energy efficiency and sufficiency through better insulation and modern heating controls can drastically cut heating demand. These alternatives not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also improve air quality and offer long-term savings for consumers.