Abstract
Suitability and sustainability of biomass production systems that utilize the Grain-for-Green policy areevaluated in the measure of environment improvement and socio-economic effects in China's Loess Plateauregion. Soil erosion control, carbon emission reduction, monetary budgeting, employment and farmer' s incomein biomass production cases (Eucommia ulmoides male flower tea plantations, natural rubber and BDF, appleorchards for fruit or juice, black locust plantation and maize fields) in Lingbao, Henan Province are compared.A Eucommia plantation was the best in environmental benefits, however, it showed a poor monetary budget.An apple orchard for fruit production was excellent both in environmental and economic measures but wasonly adaptable under good land conditions. A black locust business was not sustainable because of themonetary budget. Enterprises including biomass processing should consider extending employment andfarmer's income. Incorporating environmental benefits with monetary budgets should help improve theeconomy and sustainability of the biomass use enterprises.
