European demand for wood-fuel is huge

The demand for biomass across Europe is huge and is expected to grow even further as more countries turn their backs on nuclear power.

According to Wood Resources International, the clamour for wood-fuel across the continent has driven production of wood pellets in the US and Canada.

In its North American Wood Fibre Review, the organisation noted that changing EU environmental policies are encouraging nations to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

Biomass used throughout the EU in 2008 produced the equivalent of 80 million tonnes of oil and the European Commission is hopeful this figure will reach 140 million tonnes by 2020.

"One thing is undeniable — pellet demand in Europe, Asia and perhaps also in the US will be experiencing dramatic growth over the next five years," the report stated.

The Waste and Resources Action Programme recently said that many recycling facilities across the UK are lowering their entrance fees as they look to attract more builders who are disposing of unwanted timber, as the demand for biomass continues to grow.

This news item is brought to you by KMS Baltics in conjunction with Fest-Forest and EST KINNISVARA. Baltic forestry and property specialists.