An integrated conflict analysis approach for the sustainable supply of Forest Ecosystem Services in Germany - the case of forest-based biofuel production

Abstract

The increased harvesting of forest biomass for biofuel production in Germany could lead to trade-offs in the provision of forest ecosystem services (FES). The potential conflicts between already existing forest users and proponents of biofuels from forest biomass are insufficiently investigated. In this paper, we propose an innovative step-wise methodology for analysing the conflicts that could arise due to a foreseen increase in scarcity of various forest goods and services, as well as formulating sustainable conflict management strategies. Based on a mixed study design for triangulation, we carried out twelve expert interviews, two workshops and three focus group discussions in order to assess potential conflicts and to deepen strategies to deal with them. We found that most of our participants were against the prospect of using forest biomass for biofuel production partially due to possible negative consequences for biodiversity, climate regulation, and other FES. Study participants also asserted that there is a lack of information regarding the claimed benefits from biofuels from forest biomass. Participative processes, market-based instruments, and policy harmonization are strategies proposed to alleviate conflicts among forest users. Our insights could help the forest policy decision-making process by increasing transparency regarding possible trade-offs and strategies, which could improve sustainability in forest management.