RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES AS A PATH TO SUSTAINABILITY: BIOMASS ENERGY POTENTIAL IN AGRICULTURE

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper is to identify and discuss challenges and opportunities of using biomass in agriculture. The importance of biomass supply chain is thus emphasized. The main objective is to identify all the challenges of assessing the potential of biomass as well as the challenges in collection and storage of biomass residuals in agriculture on the example of Croatia. Methodology framework for determining potential locations for collection and logistics centers and establishment of the value chain is proposed and is based on the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) and concentration rates by counties. The scientific contribution of the paper is seen in filling the research gap on biomass potential and organization of the biomass supply chain. Research results and policy recommendations can be informative for government decision making as well as for designing and implementing national bioeconomy strategy, but they can also be useful for analyzing the biomass supply chain and designing new business models with the purpose of efficiently using biomass potential.