Archived press release

Ancient Rural Tradition Delivers Green Energy for the UK

21 November 1996

The ancient tradition of generating energy from short rotation coppice - using fast-growing crops like willow and poplar as a source of fuel - is set to make a comeback according to a new report published today (21/11/96) [1]. The report - 'Good Practice Guidelines for Short Rotation Coppice for Energy Production' - outlines how this biomass industry can develop appropriately. The Department of Trade and Industry has predicted that the renewable industry could meet a fifth of Britain's energy needs by 2025 [2].

The guidelines, being launched at a conference in London today [3], cover all aspects of the crop production chain and its conversion to useful energy. They have been developed to ensure that this crop delivers clean and sustainable energy, as well as opportunities for sustainable rural development and employment.

Tricia Allen, Energy Campaigner for Friends of the Earth, said:

"Coppicing makes good sense for the environment and for jobs. It we are going to escape the devastation of global climate change and revitalise our rural economy we will have to make renewable technologies an urgent priority. And with the approaching liberalisation of the energy markets the demand for green energy is likely to soar."

There is already one major commercial development set to deliver green energy using short rotation coppice [4]. The developers for Project Arbre, in Yorkshire, used these guidelines during development of the project.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

[1] 'Good Practice Guidelines - Short Rotation Coppice for Energy Production'. The guidelines were produced using a consensus building process which was designed and guided by a steering group made up of Friends of the Earth, British Biogen, Environmental Technology Support Unit (ETSU) and Environmental Resolve. Copies can be purchased from Peter Billins, British Biogen - 01435 882228. The process and production of the Guidelines was funded by the Department of Trade and Industry. Those involved in producing the guidelines include industry, planners, statutory bodies and environmental organisations.

[2] Energy Paper No. 62, DTI (March 1994).

[3] 'Implementation of Biomass Industry Guidelines', Thursday 21st November, Great Western Hotel, London. For further information, contact Carol Johnstone at ETSU - 01235 432383.

[4] Project Arbre, in Yorkshire, received planning permission in September. Contact Keith Pitcher on 0113 234 3234 for further details.

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