Short-rotation forestry for energy
The Minister cited studies estimating that short-rotation forestry could supply up to 15 per cent of national energy needs by 2000 and said he would encourage further study.
asked the Minister for Economic Planning and Development if his Department have formed an opinion on the possibilities of a short rotation forestry for energy production; and if, particularly in view of its employment potential as well as its potential for alternative industrial use, he will study the matter with the advice of the National Board for Science and Technology.
Comment on this
Studies by the National Science Council have indicated the potentially large contribution of short-rotation forestry to national energy requirements. It has been estimated that under the most favourable conditions this contribution could reach as high as 15 per cent of total energy requirements by the year 2000.
In view of the potential of this energy source it is my intention to encourage the NBST to continue the valuable work of the National Science Council in this area. Perhaps that answers the Deputy's point.