The Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum (DBFZ) explores how the limited resources of biomass can be used with maximal sustainability and efficiency to our energy systems. To this end the insitute identifies, develops, supports, evaluates, and demonstrates the most promising fields of application of bio-energy. Thus, its work extends our knowledge about the opportunities and limitations of the energetic and physical use of renewable raw materials, and it permanently secures the leading role of German industry in this sector.