The Biomass Thermal Energy Council (BTEC) is holding the 2021 Biomass Thermal Summit as a series of weekly programs on Thursdays between May 6th and June 10th to discuss the contributions that biomass thermal energy can make to mitigate climate change and to discuss policy and regulatory solutions to expand the industry’s beneficial impacts, create new markets for woody biomass resources and the environmental benefits of closed-loop forestry and agricultural industry.
Biomass for heat provides a locally sourced, renewable heating fuel for homes, businesses and municipalities across the country, enabling the transition away from fossil fuels for heat. The inclusion of biomass heating technologies in federal tax, natural resource, and energy policy aids in achieving climate, air quality and environmental goals. The purpose of this Summit is to continue the dialogue between the industry and federal policymakers on the role of wood heating as a decarbonization pathway for thermal energy.
The second session of the Summit will be held on May 13th and will focus on The Environmental and Carbon Benefits of Biomass Energy
Forests across the country are facing increased threats from insect infestation, drought, development pressure and neglectful management practices. Improving forest health through sustainable management and reducing hazardous fuel loads will improve environmental outcomes, reduce the risk of wildfires and provide economic opportunities for forest communities. How can government, industry and environmental stakeholders detoxify the debate around forest-derived energy? What features of biomass heating compel support for the solution?
Speakers:
- Keynote Presentation: Robert Malmsheimer, PhD, JD, Associate Chair, and Professor of Forest Policy and Law, The Department of Sustainable Resources Management
SUNY ESF - Moderator: Daniel Bresette, Executive Director, Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI)
- Ben Larson, Forest Conservation Director, Ruffed Grouse Society
- David Publicover, Senior Staff Scientist/Assistant Director of Research, Appalachian Mountain Club
To take part in the Summit, register at https://ttc.swoogo.com/2021BTECThermalSummit
BTEC members, government agency representatives and academic researchers can register for free.