Since the start of Biomassafeiten.nl in 2020, I have been involved with the platform, first in the development of the website, later also in creating and sharing content. During that period, I have increasingly delved into the world of biomass and bio-based raw materials. What I quickly noticed: in the regular media, the sharp opponents of biomass in particular are given a lot of space. Their positions are often short, visual and emotionally charged and that works well in news formats. On the other hand, there are scientific reports and practical examples that paint a broader or more nuanced picture, but they rarely receive attention. Too technical, too nuanced, or simply not 'news'.
This is how the image has emerged that biomass mainly comes down to the large-scale combustion of wood in power stations. That is a recognizable and strong frame, but it does not do justice to reality. Biomass is a collective name for a wide range of bio-based raw materials that can contribute to the circular economy in various ways. How a subject is framed largely determines public support, policy and investments. That is precisely why it is important that the story is told more broadly.
As a communications and marketing specialist, I am daily concerned with how stories land. And in the public debate on biomass, I see how strong one image has become: the CO₂-emitting wood-fired power station. That image overshadows the many other applications of bio-based raw materials that contribute to emission reduction, system integration and innovation.
That is why I find it useful to show what is possible and which developments offer perspectives through news, articles and interviews. Accessible and factual information helps to broaden the picture. It becomes clear that bio-based raw materials play a role in many more areas than is often assumed.
Biobased resources: much broader than just energy
The discussion about biomass often focuses on wood combustion in the energy sector. But biomass is a catch-all term for all kinds of biological residual flows and materials of vegetable or animal origin: prunings, roadside grass, manure, algae, organic waste, dredged material, agricultural residues, sewage sludge. This diversity makes biomass valuable in various sectors.
In the construction sector Biobased materials such as hemp, flax, cattail and mycelium are used in insulation, sheet material and finishing. They store CO₂ during growth, are renewable and contribute to reducing the environmental impact. They also offer opportunities for local production.
In the chemical industry Biobased raw materials are gaining ground as an alternative to fossil raw materials. They are used for bioplastics, bioresins, inks, coatings and solvents. This creates a bioeconomy in which residual flows are used in a high-quality manner.
In agriculture processes such as composting, fermentation and manure digestion offer solutions to close cycles, reduce emissions and improve soil quality. Farmers thus gain new revenue models and more control over residual flows.
In the energy sector biomass remains relevant in specific places, for example for local heating networks, biogas installations or seasonal storage. Especially when residual flows are used, this can contribute to security of supply and system flexibility.
From linear to circular: the importance of systems thinking
Much of the criticism of biomass is based on linear reasoning: wood is cut, burned and emits CO₂. But biomass is part of circular systems, in which residual flows are used, functions are combined (such as energy and soil improvement), and cycles are closed. If used sustainably, biomass is a flexible renewable raw material that can add value locally.
This line is also visible in policy. The European Green Deal, the RED III directive and the National Circular Economy Programme underline the importance of bio-based raw materials. Not only for energy, but also for materials, chemistry and agriculture. At the same time, the emphasis is increasingly on cascading and high-quality application, which requires innovation, collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Image formation influences policy and practice
Because biomass is so versatile, the subject also deserves versatile communication. Polarization ensures that promising innovations in the bioeconomy remain underexposed. At the same time, there are countless examples in practice of sustainable, efficient and circular use of bio-resources. These are solutions that contribute to climate goals, biodiversity, soil restoration and the regional economy.
It is therefore important that these applications and insights become visible. Not to defend a certain position, but to enrich the debate. Websites and knowledge platforms such as Biomassafeiten.nl, which bundle facts and practical examples, help with this. They offer space for nuance and depth. And that is precisely what is needed to better understand the role biomass can play in a sustainable future.
About the author
Roland Goovers
Marketing Communications Advisor
Roland Goovers is the owner of communications agency Go Interact. He helps organizations with strategy, positioning and creative communication. With over 30 years of experience, he works for companies, governments and networks.
