Policy Priorities for the Sustainable Use of Forest-Based Bioenergy: Results from a Critical Conversation

Abstract

The Regulatory Governance Initiative (RGI) held a workshop on the future of bioenergy use from Canadian forests at Carleton University (Ottawa) on November 26, 2009. The event was co-hosted by the Ivey Foundation, the Canadian Forest Service (CFS) and the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC). The purpose of the event was open debate among a diverse group of informed opinion leaders on the following question: What should the Canadian approach look like when it comes to the use of bioenergy from forests? In response to this question, we aimed at compiling a ranked list of priorities and principles from the perspective of policy makers, regulators, industry, non-government organizations, and subject matter experts. The top priority identified was establishing a carbon price, and the top principle was creating a level playing field among all sources of renewable energy.

JEL Classification: L5, L78, L73