Few topics have caused as much discussion in recent times as biomass. However, we have been using biomass for decades, for many applications and in many shapes and sizes. However, taken positions and the fear of losing support lead to more hardening than necessary, with the result that we no longer seem to want to talk to each other.
Europe, with the Netherlands as an example, has been a leader for 50 years when it comes to giving raw materials a new or better application. A market that is characterized by innovative power, wanting to make the impossible possible, perseverance, but also a lot of resistance. Because while society happily continues to raise everyone's standard of living, more and more consumers also want to contribute to a better climate. These two developments can be combined, but making choices proves impossible but is urgently necessary.
Our industry is internationally highly regarded for its knowledge, skills and entrepreneurship. We are involved in projects all over the world in which we are often given a leading role. All my colleagues do this with the utmost dedication and respect for biodiversity, forest management, agriculture, air quality and the local environment. In our pursuit of a better climate, we are open to changes if we have missed the turn somewhere. Innovation involves trial and error, but first you have to start walking. Unfortunately, the current trend in the Netherlands seems to be that we prefer to wait for future solutions and take it for granted that we do not want to change anything now. However, something we cannot afford.
Recent research shows that the Netherlands is positive about the use of biomass and it is therefore a shame that politicians and environmental organizations seem to be influenced by a small group of 'specialists'. I would like to invite everyone, supporters and opponents, to visit a company that uses biomass as a raw material. Get really informed and, like me, become super enthusiastic about what is already possible and what the future will bring and those few bad apples, we simply turn them into energy.
About the author
John Bouterse
Managing director Twinnovate BV and Board member of Platform Bio-Economie
