Solid Biomass Energy in Namibia
Introduction
Bush encroachment refers to the phenomenon of excessive increase in density of woody plants, which affects the grass/bush balance at the expense of grasses. It is considered a serious ecological and economic problem in Namibia and affects approximately 260,000 to 300,000 km2 of land in 9 of the country's 14 regions.
Bush thinning, the selective removal of woody plants, will result in increase in grass production (resulting in increase in grazing capacity). Bushes and shrubs can be a source of energy for households (firewood, charcoal), industry (industrial boilers and electricity generation) and the national electricity (biomass power plants).[1]
Quantifying Harvestable Encroacher Bush in Namibia
This publication presents a methodology for the quantification of Namibian encroacher bush and proposes a practical solution for balancing environmental sustainability with the economic feasibility of biomass utilisation projects.
Financing Bush Control
This publication presents an assessment of current incentives, grants and financing products for de-bushing activities in Namibia. Through a supply and demand analysis, it determines their adequacy and proposes feasible adjustments to support the establishment of a sustainable encroacher bush based industry in Namibia.
Harvesting Technologies for Encroacher Bush
This publication presents and compares methods of encroacher bush harvesting. It is based on the study “Compendium of harvesting technologies for encroacher bush in Namibia” (2015) by M.J. de Wet.
Adding Value to Namibian Encroacher Bush
This publication provides an overview of biomass value added products that can be produced from encroacher bush in Namibia. It is based on the study “Value Added End-Use Opportunities for Namibian Encroacher Bush (2015)” by Prof. Dr. R. Trede and Professor Dr. R. Patt of Development Consultants for Southern Africa (DECOSA) CC.
Conclusion
Further Information
- De-bushing Advisory Service (DAS)
- Namibia Biomass Industry Group (N-BiG)
- Watch our videos on YouTube
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/De-bushing_Advisory_Service_Namibia
References
- Support to de-bushing project - GIZ. https://www.giz.de/en/worldwide/28648.html
