Forest ecosystems in the context of a green economy: Potential for sustainable energy

The purpose of this study was to assess the potential for using wood biomass, including wood waste, as a renewable energy source for the energy sector of Kyrgyzstan, as well as to analyse its energy efficiency and environmental aspects. The study was conducted in two natural zones of the Kyrgyz Republic: mountainous (Naryn region) and lowland (Talas region). Field studies, laboratory methods, and statistical data processing were employed. The volume of wood in the study areas was determined by measuring the diameter and height of trees, with subsequent calculations using established formulas. The calorific value of wood from various species was analysed using the calorimetric method, and industry research data were used to estimate CO₂ emissions from the combustion of wood waste, coal, and natural gas. Statistical analysis, including the Student’s t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA), was performed to compare the energy potential of different fuel types. The results of the study indicated that Scots pine and English oak are the most promising types of wood for biofuel production in these regions. Calculations confirmed that chips and sawdust have the highest energy values, while wood bark has the lowest calorific value. Analysis of CO₂ emissions demonstrated that wood waste is a more environmentally friendly fuel compared to coal, although it is inferior to natural gas. The data obtained confirm the importance of the rational use of forest resources and the integration of wood waste into bioenergy as a means to reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources and lower carbon dioxide emissions. The study revealed that the most promising types of wood for biofuel are Scots pine and English oak. The calorific value of chips was 9.5-10.8 GJ, sawdust – 10.2-11.5 GJ, while bark demonstrated the lowest values (8.3-9 GJ). CO₂ emissions from burning oak sawdust were 80 kg/GJ, wood chips – 90 kg/GJ, bark – 98 kg/GJ, while for pine these figures were higher: 85, 95, and 105 kg/GJ respectively. The analysis confirmed that wood waste is cleaner than coal but remains inferior to natural gas, which underlines its significance for bioenergy