Consider Biomass Heating For Your Home

The worst thing that we have done is to burn fossil fuels for heat and energy, as this releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the natural carbon cycle, from which it was removed millions of years ago. Not only are we more aware of our 'carbon footprint' these days, but we are very aware that the Earth's stores of oil and coal are finite, and dangerously close to running out altogether. Scientists and researchers are looking into more sustainable energy sources and there is a heightened interest in using biomass to create energy, amongst other forms of 'green' or eco-friendly energy.

Biomass is essentially anything living, or previously living, made from carbon, hydrogen and oxygen and can include everything from dead grass and straw to living animals and people – although the latter have not yet been seriously considered as a source of heating and lighting energy! Wood is by far the most common source of biomass heating energy and was the first source used by man in Neolithic times. Biomass heating processes do release carbon, but it is carbon that is already accounted for in the natural carbon cycle, and therefore has its place in a balanced eco-system.

Apart from not adding to the carbon overload, biomass has another advantage. By consuming the residue of industry, agriculture, forestry and even day-to-day living, biomass heating works to recycle and clean up waste.

Eco-conscious customers can purchase purpose built boilers, heaters and appliances that can run on biomass fuels. Biomass is not only for burning, there are processes that can turn biomass into sugars and alcohols which can be used as fuel for motors and engines, which in turn can power lights and appliances.

Biomass heating, solar energy and wind harnessing techniques are at the top of researchers lists at present, as they work hard to find ways of producing vast amounts of sustainable and renewable energy as cheaply as possible.