Biomass Support Markets
Biomass energy is not the "lead" in the forest products industry. But in its supporting role as an ancillary market, it augments the stewardship and sustainability practices that mitigate the risk of wildfire, aid regeneration, and aid in the control of pests and disease.
In fact, about a quarter of all products from Michigan's forest resources are energy related. That's more millions of tons of wood residuals that would remain in the forests every year, where it would inhibit growth, facilitate the spread of infection and disease, increase the risk of wildfire, and decay into methane, a potent greenhouse gas. In the absence of higher-value markets, biomass may help offset the cost and improve the effectiveness of these treatments.