When low-value fibre is generated from forest management activities, the material is often burned to reduce fire risk. Once called ‘waste’, this biomass is increasingly being used, supporting a diversified value-added forest products economy. By establishing new or supporting current biomass facilities located in rural B.C., we can help sustain forestry jobs, generate useful products and green energy, reduce negative health and climate outcomes associated with burning this material, and, in some cases, we can reduce treatment costs.
“In British Columbia, biomass for heat is cost competitive with other heating choices,” noted Jason Fisher, RPF, Executive Director of FESBC. “Having more district heating systems like the ones located in Prince George and Alkali Lake, and supporting investment in new pulp and paper mills where materials from tree thinning practices are part of the long-term fibre supply, can be a good way for our province to embrace biomass.”
Today, the utilization of biomass generates a myriad of benefits. Using biomass from logging operations can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Burning a single 50-cubicmetre slash pile releases about 45 tonnes of greenhouse gases, including 240 kilograms of harmful particulate matter. Converting biomass into biochar provides a valuable soil amendment that locks carbon in the ground for decades while enhancing soil health.
An example of wood waste salvaged after harvesting operations to be used to create bioenergy | Photo Credit: Tiffany Christianson Photography
As we contemplate a new trade reality with our neighbours to the south, it’s good to note that most biomass-based products such as energy, pulp and paper, and wood pellets are used domestically or exported to markets outside of North America. Biomass can also bolster our energy ambitions, as 1.2 tonnes of biomass consumed at one of B.C.’s 13 commercial biomass energy facilities generate up to 1 megawatt of consistent and reliable baseload power. When we properly account for the societal benefits of using biomass instead of burning it, the business case for investing in the transport of this otherwise uneconomical material becomes clear.
More biomass could be made available from investments in restoring damaged stands, developing landscape level fuel breaks, and actively managing our young forests. Regional plans identifying available biomass can be a step toward helping support rural communities in building heating and energy systems. Planning for the recovery of biomass can also help the business community in investment decisions related to manufacturing facilities, including pulp mills. Increasing knowledge can drive the demand for biomass that will be made available from future forest management activities. In this circular relationship, demand for biomass enables more forest investments which support biomass-based businesses. If we can support this cycle, then we can realize many of the societal benefits that the forest industry has provided for the past century and extend them into the next.
Written by:
Jason Fisher, RPF, Executive Director, FESBC
Brian Watson, RPF, Operations Manager, FESBC
Read the full Special Report released by FESBC, in collaboration with the BC First Nations Forestry Council.