ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the key concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book demonstrates that the different futures are possible for energy cropping. It suggests that apart from limited cases such as willow crops in Europe, perennial energy crops with restoration benefits can struggle to compete with first-generation bio-fuel crops, bio-energy from wastes and fossil fuel-based energy options. It also discusses threaten biodiversity, soil and water quality, food security and liveli-hoods for local people. The book looks at the criteria from the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU) and the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), more specific expectations emerge when it comes to bio-energy. It shows how local environmental and social co-benefits could be incorporated into schemes such as Australia's Renewable Energy Target, as well as how Brazil's use of the 'social fuel' label could be expanded to promote 'ecosystem fuel' as well.
