Biomass Yield and Economic, Energy and Carbon Balances of Ulmus pumila L., Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Populus × euroamericana (Dode) Guinier Short-Rotation Coppices on Degraded Lands under Mediterranean Climate

The steadily increasing demand for energy and concerns about climate change have prompted countries to promote the use of renewable sources, including lignocellulosic biomass. In this context, work aims assess biomass production purposes in crops with short rotation, as well its effect on soil properties. Deciduous tree species were used, mainly Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila L.), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) a hybrid poplar clone (Populus × euroamericana (Dode) Guinier, ‘AF2’). Four field trials implemented, under two different types Mediterranean climate, where highly productive taxa tested, addition mixed planting nitrogen-fixing non-fixing one. Short-rotation coppices (SRCs) these yield 12–14 t ha−1 year−1 high-quality dry woody biomass, when fertilizers irrigation water are supplied; generate 205–237 GJ net earnings EUR 1.5 per 1 invested; sequester into 0.36–0.83 C 57 kg N. Therefore, raised SRCs could improve degraded soils if crop is properly managed, resulting favorable economic, CO2 emission balances. plantations can bring economic environmental gains, transformation chips or pellets gives it added value.