CLF Calls New Biomass Study Conclusions “Sobering”

CONTACT:
Karen Wood, CLF, (978) 857-5389
Sue Reid, CLF, (617) 669-2182

BOSTON, MA  June 10, 2010 – The Conservation Law Foundation issued the following statement regarding the findings of a Biomass Sustainability Study commissioned by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER):

“The Massachusetts biomass study results are a wake-up call and come not a moment too soon to inform plans to use forest resources for power generation in the Commonwealth,” said Sue Reid, CLF senior attorney. “The sobering conclusion is that Massachusetts cannot produce very much new energy from forest resources while also protecting the health of our forests and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The study echoes CLF’s longstanding position that there are “right” and “wrong” ways to use biomass for energy, and confirms that combusting biomass for energy is not carbon neutral. The value of biomass as a tool for achieving necessary carbon reductions depends on the management practices of the forests from which the biomass is harvested and the manner in which it is used.” Reid continued, “Taking the study’s results into account, CLF looks forward to working with the Patrick Administration and stakeholders throughout the region to develop policy tools that will ensure the environmental compatibility of biomass energy projects.”