Geographical analysis with GIS methodology for a sustainable use of logging residues in mountainous area

A GlS-based approach is presented in order to define a decision support system tool for strategic planning of forest biomass supply chain for a heating/energy use. The presented GlS-based approach focus its analysis on forest management data, road network 31 characteristics, terrain features and chipping and transporting cost. According to two different heating plants location, results on the availability of logging residues for energy use are presented in form of cost supply curves. For the investigated case study, supply curves evidence that, also at local level, different locations of heating plants can affect the cost-efficient use of logging residues in form of wood chips.