China National Department of Environmental Protection
Official Response
Response to request for clarification of Biomass Pellet Fuels classification and associated issues
广东省环境保护厅：Original question issued by: Guangdong Province Environment Protection Bureau:
We are in receipt of your communication regarding whether biomass molding pellet fuels (BMF) are classified as high-polluting fuels (ref: Guangdong environmental protection request (2009) No.29). Further to our detailed study, we comment as follows:
1. Firstly, the use of agricultural and forestry waste (such as straw, rice husks, sawdust, branches) as raw materials, when processed into stick, briquettes or biomass molding pellets and combusted using specialized equipment, resulting in lower sulfur and nitrogen emissions plus reduced ash content, leading to clean, efficient and smoke less combustion cannot classified as high-polluting fuels.
2. Secondly, when considering the use of biomass molding fuels account should be taken of the need to meet local air quality control requirements as well as a realistic assessment of feedstock availability. When natural gas supply cannot meet demand, biomass molding fuels can be used as an alternative fuel. In the center of the large city, rigorous air pollutant emissions should be controlled and measured using appropriate scientific verification techniques.
3.Thirdly, the promotion of the use of biomass molding fuels and its supervision & management should be strengthened. Local standards should be established for the technical regulation of for biomass molding fuels and its specialized combustion equipments. When using biomass fuels, attention should be paid to monitoring whether any dioxin-like substances produced. BMF producers should possess the aptitude to produce and sell the biomass molding fuels and specialized combustion equipments, whilst ensuring products conform to relevant quality, safety, environmental protection, energy conservation and other certifications, technical regulations and standards.
Finally, can you please summarize and report to our department the current situation in your region (Guangdong) with respect to the production and consumption of biomass molding fuels.
7 August, 2009
Key words: environment pollution biomass fuels reply
