Drawbacks to the Renewable & Bio-Available Source of Energy-

Biomass is biological matter derived mainly from plantlife, and can be a viable source of renewable energy when used properly. However, there are still major disadvantages to biomass production. Burning organic materials as fuel — especially using certain sources such as corn ethanol — still releases carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, particulates, volatile organic compounds, and other pollutants into the atmosphere. In some cases, even at levels above standard fuel sources such as natural gas and coal. Not to mention, when biomass is harvested at unsustainable rates, it can severely damage ecosystems and consume large amounts of already rapidly depleting water. As it stands now, it takes much more water and energy to plant, cultivate and harvest crops and trees used for biomass than it seems to be worth in terms of net energy gain. Furthermore, even if new trees are planted, they are a slow growing resource and actually hold around 50 percent of their weight in CO2, which will contribute to climate change just as much as fossil fuels. With each passing day, as America continues to grow and develop, more farmland is becoming obsolete. However, sufficient space is required to house the many crops needed in biomass production that would sustain our ever-growing demand for fuel and energy.

Fortunately, there is always something that the average person can do to help make biomass a productive and sustainable source of energy. Stand up for sustainable forestation policies and write to FSC, RAN & other organizations to primary forest logging. Fight for rainforest protection laws, as well as farmowner land protection policies. Not to mention, which is probably the most important for all of us, stand for water conservation policies on a state and federal level. Use less water in the shower and when washing dishes or brushing teeth. Any thing you can do, big or small, will help in the fight toward a greener, healthier planet.