The development of a framework to assess waste and biomass availability: A case study for Canada

Quantifying biomass and bioenergy potential is vital for a bio-based economy, particularly in Canada, where reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting energy demands are national priorities. This study developed a comprehensive biomass and waste feedstock inventory assessment framework and applied it to Canada. The analysis estimates the net available quantity of livestock manure, agricultural residue, municipal solid waste (MSW), biosolids, and forest residue that can be used sustainably without causing ecological harm. Competitive uses and potential losses are accounted to get realistic data with minimal uncertainty. Data for the most recent year were analyzed, and findings are represented using a geographic information system to map biomass sources. Results show Canada generates approximately 30, 28, 24, 21 and 7 million tonnes of dry manure, agricultural residue, MSW, forest residue, and biosolids, respectively, per year. This knowledge supports the development of targeted bioenergy strategies and policies based on biomass quantity and regional distribution.