Charity warns of potential air quality issues from biomass

An environmental charity has warned the government to seriously consider the potential damage to air quality that could occur through the implementation of an increasing number of biomass energy solutions around the country.

Speaking to NewEnergyFocus.com, Environmental Protection UK expressed concerns that the use of a wider range of biomass technologies could degrade Britain's air quality if it is not properly regulated.

Ed Dearnley, policy officer at the charity, told the website that the emissions standards imposed by the government are currently too low and could be damaging.

"The impacts could be significant if biomass is allowed to go ahead wily-nilly," he stated.

However, a spokesperson for the Department of the Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs explained that, according to its calculations, the wide-spread introduction of biomass technology will only result in a "minute increase in air pollution".

The representative added that these effects will be mitigated through policies outlined in the Renewable Energy Strategy.

Debate surrounding the technology has intensified since the government announced a financial incentive scheme for renewable heat systems.

In addition to biomass, eligible solutions include solar thermal, air and ground source heat pumps.

Posted by Lauren Steadman