The Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Utilities has recently introduced new, stricter requirements for sustainable biomass. According to the ministry, Denmark's sustainability criteria for biomass are among the most rigorous in Europe, now receiving an additional green boost. These enhanced requirements, which are part of the implementation of the EU's Renewable Energy Directive (REDIII), have been welcomed by the Timber and Furniture Industry.
The new regulations stipulate that biomass must come from leftover wood that cannot be used for building materials or other higher-value products.
'We are very pleased with the new biomass requirements and the introduction of the cascading principle. This creates a clear prioritisation of wood resources, ensuring that valuable timber remains in production while leftover wood can be used for energy. This is an important step for both our industry and the environment,' says Tanja Blindbæk Olsen, Director of the Timber and Furniture Industry.
Priority for quality timber in production
This development is positive for the Danish sawmill industry. For years, there have been concerns that lower-quality timber was being used directly for energy production due to the high demand for biomass in Denmark. The new requirements will ensure that wood is primarily used for production, with only leftover wood being used for biomass.
The new requirements will require energy producers to document that the biomass they use could not have had greater value in other applications. The criteria will also include stricter standards for CO2 emissions during harvesting and transport, as well as sustainable forest management, further protecting forest biodiversity. Additionally, more facilities and companies will be subject to these sustainability requirements than before.
Balancing energy and materials
Biomass has long been a vital energy source in Denmark, but with the expansion of solar and wind energy, the need for biomass is expected to decrease by 2035. However, biomass will still play a necessary role in the energy supply, especially when the sun isn't shining and the wind isn't blowing. The new requirements aim to ensure that this will occur without distorting the raw materials market.
'We look forward to a future where the timber industry can focus on providing sustainable materials, while leftover wood contributes to green energy,' says Tanja Blindbæk Olsen.
The new sustainability requirements will be further detailed during the drafting of regulations ahead of their implementation in spring 2025.
'We are eager to see how the new requirements will be specified in the regulations, and we are ready for a constructive dialogue about the practical implications for our industry and the use of biomass in Denmark's energy supply,' she concludes.
More information:
TMI
www.danskindustri.dk