Public policies related to the production of forest biomass for energy purposes in Brazil

Forest biomass offers a solution for energy security and boosting the low-carbon bioeconomy in Brazil. This article aimed to analyze the adequacy of Brazilian public policies directed at the production of forest biomass for energy purposes. The study involved a survey of 171 experts in forestry public policy in Brazil, who answered an online questionnaire. The main results reveal that, although legislation for forestry production is considered relatively adequate, laws addressing the specific portion for energy purposes are considered less adequate. The specialists reported the need to reform existing legislation to better serve the productive sector. Regarding economic instruments, most respondents considered the volume of rural credit for forest plantations insufficient and interest rates high. Moreover, 82% of the respondents indicated that small forestry producers have the greatest difficulty in gaining access to credit. In conclusion, this study highlights the need for more effective public policies for the forest biomass energy sector. Suggestions include creating specific lines of credit for small producers with lower interest rates and longer grace and repayment periods, establishing quality-control regulations for biomass, and ensuring a minimum price for timber. Such actions would be crucial to promoting the energy transition, energy security, and a low-carbon bioeconomy in Brazil.