This special issue “Development of modern bioenergy approaches in low- and middle-income countries” presents examples of the latest bioenergy research in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)

The development of modern bioenergy approaches plays an important role in LMICs as the regions of the global south have considerable biomass potential while these resources are currently underutilized or used in unsustainable ways. Past experience and research has shown that there are many sustainability challenges and unevenly distributed risks and rewards related to bioenergy deployment and use. Authors from different disciplinary backgrounds and geographical regions have been invited to contribute to this special issue to showcase ongoing research in this under-represented space to provide insights on current developments and the challenges and potential (whether technical, social, economic, environmental or policy) of modern bioenergy for LMICs in the global bioeconomy. The 15 research papers cover the breadth of bioenergy research including biomass resources, pre-treatment and conversion technologies, environmental impacts and wider socio-economic and policy implications. The special issue demonstrates the need for more broad-based, integrated, and improved knowledge on the development of modern bioenergy approaches to improve energy access and enhance livelihoods. Balancing recognition of knowledge gaps and persistent challenges with practical lessons learned, the special issue also identifies priorities for future research, innovation and policy agendas for the pro-poor development of modern bioenergy. We hope the readers will find the papers of the special issue engaging and informative. The editors of the special issue would like to thank all contributing authors for their collaboration in producing this special issue.