Biomass keeps carbon in a closed cycle
Source: UK Biomass Energy Centre
Biomass is a carbon neutral fuel: the cycle of harvest and combustion produces a small fraction of the Carbon emissions of fossil fuels. In many cases the only carbon footprint is due to the use of fossil fuels in transportation, and in the fabrication of machinery and equipment.
Biomass can be sourced on an indefinite basis, contributing to strong security of supply. The use of biomass fuel provides an economic incentive to manage woodland. Managed woodlands are significantly more productive, trap more CO2 and produce less methane (formed on decomposition of plant matter).
Managed woodlands also contribute to improved biodiversity. Managed forests are harvested to remove no more than the “annual increment”, i.e. the new growth. Biomass residues, arisings, co-products and waste not used for energy, or some other application, will usually rot. This will generate CO2 and produce methane (CH4), a greenhouse gas 21 times more potent that CO2.
Many biomass fuels generate lower levels of such atmospheric pollutants as sulphur dioxide. Modern biomass combustion systems offer combustion efficiency and emission levels comparable with the best fossil fuel boilers.