2019 Volume 34 Issue 1 Article ID: 34.47
We illustrate a new system using broad-leaved tree stands as fuel for woody biomass power generation plants. This system could compensate for fossil fuel shortages, and show a net profit. The system simultaneously harvests broad-leaved natural stands and coniferous plantation stands within a cable logging area. A portion of logged conifers are shipped as saw logs and the remainder as fuel for biomass power plants. All of the logged broad-leaved trees are shipped as fuel. When logging productivity peaks and the cutting ratio of the coniferous stands within the logging area is 30 % or more, profits can cover replanting costs after clear cutting of the coniferous stands. With this system, profit is determined by the following two factors: marginal profit derived from the logged area of broad-leaved stands, and profit from clear cutting of coniferous stands in the cable logging area.
