New independently verified data from the WRA (Wood Recyclers’ Association) shows that waste wood powered biomass saved almost three-quarters of a million (701,000) tonnes of carbon emissions in 2023 when compared to the likely displaced energy generation.
And, if these plants were fitted with carbon capture and storage technology (CCS), this could rise to 3.6 million tonnes of carbon emissions savings in future – representing 16% of the government’s target to capture 23MtCO2/year by 2035.
Our sector helps to lock away carbon in products made from recycled wood and then at the end of their life they are used to produce low-carbon renewable energy – supporting a carbon neutral energy system. For biomass, the data also shows the potential for UK plants to deliver even greater carbon benefits in future, with the introduction of carbon and capture and storage technology.
At Seras the carbon savings made through our waste wood business alone are equivalent to the emissions created by driving 2.6 billion miles a year in a VW Golf.
Our CEO Richard Jenkins, who is a WRA Board Member and Chair of the working group, said: “It was a pleasure to chair the working group for this important project. These independently verified figures provide further evidence of the critical role that our sector plays not just in the circular economy but also in helping to deliver net zero.”
You can read the WRA press release in full here.