Public Perceptions of Bioenergy
Business, Finance, and Economics, Conservation Education, and Policy and Administration
Opportunities for converting biomass to biofuels are strong, and ongoing research is continually leading to improved technologies. Despite these advancements and the potential environmental, economic, and social benefits to the American public, members of the “bioenergy web” (e.g., biomass producers and consumers; employees of the bioenergy, forestry, and transportation sectors; members and leaders of rural communities; policymakers), have varying – and sometimes conflicting – opinions about the use of biomass for bioenergy development. Understanding these different perceptions and the potential beliefs behind them is important for overcoming barriers to the continued development of a strong biofuels economy.