Criteria for landscape-compatible biomass cultivation

Methodological approach to evaluation and exemplary application in the Ostprignitz-Ruppin model region

In the course of an environmentally compatible biomass supply, the present work sets itself the task of developing criteria for a landscape-compatible biomass utilization. The aspects to be taken into account with regard to the landscape as a protected asset and the cultivation of biomass are highlighted. At the level of landscape framework planning, a procedure is developed that makes it possible to assess the risks and synergy effects of biomass use in relation to the landscape. Based on this, initial recommendations for action can be formulated. Three differently characterized landscape areas in the model region of the district of Ostprignitz-Ruppin serve as study areas (UG).

In a theoretical section, the methodological approach for assessing the opportunities and risks for the landscape is developed. Based on the landscape assessment method of KÖHLER & PREIß (2000), the protected landscape is operationalized. With the help of indicators and other individual aspects (partial indicators), the landscape quality can be recorded. The assessment is carried out on a simple three-level ordinal scale. The effects of biomass cultivation on the landscape are operationalized through the use of impact factors. A three-level ordinal scale is also used to assess the impact intensities. For some impact factors, a two-level nominal scale is sufficient. The impact factors recorded and evaluated in this way (landscape and cultivated biomass) can now be correlated with each other. This is done using the ecological risk analysis. The individual results of the ecological risk analysis can then be combined into risk levels using decision trees.

The developed method is tested in an application-related section. The focus here is on the question of whether differentiated results (risk levels) are achieved in the three selected study areas, which are characterized by different natural features. Germany's natural spatial organization is used to define the areas. The classification is carried out at the level of so-called landscape types. The risk levels are now determined for five exemplary selected energy and industrial plants. Based on these results, initial recommendations for action for landscape-compatible biomass cultivation in the model region are proposed.

The results show that the objective of the work was largely achieved. The method enables a uniform, comprehensive consideration of the landscape as a protected asset in the provision of cultivated biomass. Furthermore, it reacts sensitively to the different landscape situations in the three study areas. However, the results obtained cannot be used to make detailed statements. Rather, they serve as a rough estimate of the suitability of various open land areas for landscape-compatible biomass cultivation.

In conjunction with the evaluation of the other protected goods and landscape functions of landscape planning, a contribution can be made to the comprehensive consideration of nature conservation aspects in biomass production at the level of landscape framework planning.

Editing:
Margret Kolbe
Bernhard Hennemann

Expert:
Michael Roth (LLP)
Prof. Dr. Johann Köppel (TU Berlin)

Submission:
August 27, 2007