The main aim of this work was to assess the efficiency of wood fuel in Birštonas eco city in terms of sustainable development. To achieve this objective the methods of scientific literature analysis, descriptive -analytic laws and documents analysis were used. Wood fuel usage efficiency was calculated by using Microsoft Excel and included data given by Ltd. “Birštonas Heat“ and Lithuanian District Heating Association.

The study results showed that the concept of Birštonas eco city is mainly determined by its features as a resort town. According to this concept Birštonas strives to become an innovative city with healthy population and friendly environment, where ecological solutions are practiced.

The efficiency of decision to use wood fuel instead of natural gas for heating energy in Birštonas city was evaluated in terms of sustainable development: economic, ecological and social aspects. The usage of wood fuel is more economically efficient compared to natural gas. The decision to use wood fuel for heating energy saved about 4.7 million litas in six years for Birštonas city. The usage of wood fuel is more environmentally efficient compared to natural gas. By using wood fuel in six years Birštonas city emitted about 8.5 thousand tons of pollutants - three times less than using only natural gas. The usage of wood fuel is more socially efficient compared to natural gas. It helped to reduce the heating costs to final consumers - Birštonas citizens.

The main ecological solutions in Birštonas city are related to more efficient use of alternative energy sources. The need to save heat in the buildings through renovation is also highlighted.

Raktažodžiai: wood fuel, Eco city, Birštonas, renewable energy sources