Assessing farmers' willingness to sell straw for energy and material applications in Sweden

This study examines farmers' willingness to sell straw for energy and material applications in Scania, Sweden. Using interviews and surveys, we tested three empirical consequences derived from the premise that missing data on farmers' willingness to sell straw for energy may misrepresent the biomass supply in potential assessments. Findings reveal willingness to sell straw depends on end use, with farmers preferring benefits like manure in barter arrangements over bioenergy. Land tenure is key; those leasing over 50 % of their land are more likely to be willing to sell. Contrary to expectations, straw supply is not highly price-sensitive; competing uses like animal bedding influence decisions. Up to 57 % (95 % CI: 42–75) of cereal and oilseed land could be made available for energy, though agronomic and competing use limit this potential. These results challenge viewing straw as a residue and highlight the need for region-specific policies reflecting land tenure, local practices, and agronomic priorities. Integrating nutrient recycling, diversified straw uses, and agroecosystem planning could enhance biomass availability and agricultural sustainability. Further research should assess effectiveness, including carbon farming regulations. This study offers insights for aligning bioenergy goals with agricultural sustainability in biomass policy. • Farmers' willingness to sell straw depends on its intended end use. • Land tenure significantly influences farmers' willingness to sell straw. • Straw supply is less price-sensitive than assumed in biomass potential assessments. • Up to 57 % (95 % CI: 42–75 %) of cereal–oilseed land could supply biomass at high prices. • Policy should consider non-price factors to ensure sustainable straw removal.