Short Rotation Forestry (SRF) is emerging as a key player in renewable energy and a recently updated article from Forest Research provides a comprehensive review of SRF.
The practice of SRF involves planting fast-growing tree species, like Eucalyptus and poplar that are harvested every 10-20 years. SRF offers significant benefits, including high yield, effective carbon sequestration, and habitat enhancement. It’s an adaptable method suitable for various landscapes, contributing to energy security and environmental sustainability. Researchers and policymakers are increasingly recognising its potential in the green energy transition.
SRF may be an attractive option for landowners, as it provides more immediate financial returns than conventional forestry. SRF has traditionally been used to provide biomass for energy and heat generation. However, there are likely to be other industrial applications for SRF, such as the production of composite wood and construction materials (see our ‘Biomass Crop End Uses’ factsheet for examples of the broad range of potential end uses for biomass crops).
Explore the detailed updates and benefits in the article at Forest Research.