Is Biomass Renewable? (And How It Works in Ontario’s Energy Mix)
Yes, biomass is classified as renewable energy, but the answer requires important context. Biomass consists of organic materials from plants and animals that can be replenished through natural growth cycles, distinguishing it from finite fossil fuels. When forests regrow, crops are replanted, and organic waste continues to be produced, the carbon released during biomass combustion can theoretically be reabsorbed, creating a closed loop.
However, the renewable label comes with critical conditions. Biomass only maintains its renewable status when harvested sustainably, meaning extraction rates don’t exceed regrowth rates and …
How Biomass Is Obtained: From Ontario’s Forests to Clean Energy
Biomass is obtained through systematic collection of organic materials from forestry operations, agricultural activities, and municipal waste streams, then processed into usable fuel for energy generation. The process starts where the material originates: loggers gather wood residues and mill byproducts, farmers collect crop waste and animal manure, and municipalities divert yard trimmings and food scraps from landfills. Each source requires different harvesting methods, but all share the same goal of capturing carbon-based materials before they decompose and release greenhouse gases.
In Ontario, biomass collection has become a …
Ontario to Become the First Carbon-Neutral Community in Canada
The decision of Ruth and Tom Bowes to settle into the small community of Eden Mills was primarily due to the place’s plan to become the first carbon-neutral community in Canada.
Tom Bowes expressed his faith in people overcoming climate change if they commit themselves to become conscious about their littlest decisions, including how they consume, live, eat, or wear.
The husband and wife said they decided to settle in a straw-bale house. They utilize straws’ insulating properties to save energy bills and …
An Overview of the Bioeconomy
The bioeconomy is fastly emerging in Ontario. It’s opening new opportunities to homegrown products and local farmers.
The system called bioeconomy pertains to using plant-based carbon as a replacement for fossil fuel-based carbon. It develops bio-based products, including bioenergy, fuel, and feed from crops, such as switchgrass, miscanthus, wheat straw, and corn stalk.
Ontario has the drive, innovation, and resources to support bioeconomy. It enables local farmers to benefit from the sustainability of …
What is Biomass?
Biomass pertains to the production of bioenergy from the following sources:
Direct combustion, such as electricity generation, steam, or heat.
Indirect thermochemical or biochemical conversion into different biofuels, such as pyrolysis oils, methane, methanol, and ethanol
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