Landowners’ perception of short-rotation forestry for biofuel in New Zealand: awareness, familiarity, and barriers to integrate in their farmlands

Short-rotation forestry (SRF) is an emerging concept in New Zealand with the potential for sustainable biofuel production. This study investigates landowners' perceptions of short-rotation forestry (SRF) as a biofuel production strategy in New Zealand, emphasising their awareness, familiarity, and perceived barriers to its implementation on their farmlands. As New Zealand aims for enhanced energy security and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, SRF presents a viable option for sustainable biomass production. Through a survey of 800 landowners across six regions representing diverse farm types and demographics, the research explores landowners' attitudes and decision-making processes regarding the adoption of SRF in light of government policies promoting bioenergy. The findings reveal limited awareness and familiarity with SRF practices among landowners and significant concerns regarding economic viability, land management, and environmental impacts. Familiarity with SRF was seen to correlate negatively with adoption likelihood, indicating that perceived risks outweigh potential benefits for many landowners. Drawing on international SRF experiences, this study recommends pilot programmes, financial incentives, and targeted outreach to address barriers. These findings provide a foundation for future policy and planning to introduce SRF as a viable pathway for New Zealand's bioenergy strategy. • Short rotation forestry is emerging as a bioenergy land use in New Zealand. • Limited awareness and profitability concerns hinder landowner adoption. • Policy actions prioritise financial incentives and awareness-building measures. • International experiences highlight the need for early de-risking and regulatory clarity. • Short rotation forestry adoption supports New Zealand's energy and climate goals.