Bioenergy Day

Statement Release // 10.18.17 // Contact Ernie Shea,
410-252-7079

"25x'25 Alliance partners are among the dozens of businesses, schools, government agencies and

advocacy organizations around the United States and Canada observing the Fifth Annual

Bioenergy Day today, staging events that recognize the economic and environmental benefits of

using organic materials – biomass – to produce heat, power and fuels," said Bart Ruth, alliance

chairman. "While aimed at educating local residents and stakeholders on bioenergy and how it

contributes locally to forest health and economic productivity, the message is also one that policy

makers at the local, state and federal levels need to hear to ensure bioenergy in all of its forms is

given the optimum opportunity to contribute to our nation's energy strategy.

"While strong efforts are underway to document the lower carbon benefits of sustainably

produced biomass, bioenergy still faces constant and self-serving criticism from fossil fuel

interests that are desperately seeking to hold on to their share of the market. The individuals and

groups out today are casting a very important spotlight on this import sector and the

contributions it makes to the nation's energy security and the economic benefits it provides to

rural America."