As a renewable energy source, biomass pellets offer multiple environmental benefits. They not only help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, but also lower pollutant emissions, while promoting the development of a circular economy. The following details these benefits:
1. Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Contributing to the "Dual Carbon" Goals
Near-Zero Emissions in the Carbon Cycle:
The raw materials for biomass pellets (such as crop straw, forestry waste, and wood chips) absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) through photosynthesis during their growth process. The CO₂ released during combustion essentially balances the amount absorbed during the growth phase, forming a "closed carbon cycle" and theoretically considered a "carbon-neutral" energy source.
Emission Reduction Potential from Replacing Fossil Fuels:
Replacing coal with biomass pellets in industrial boilers, heating, and power generation can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Reduce Pollutant Emissions and Improve Air Quality
Reducing Sulfur and Nitrogen Oxides:
The sulfur content of biomass feedstock is typically less than 0.1%, and the nitrogen content is approximately 0.5%-1.5%, significantly lower than that of coal (sulfur content can reach 1%-3%, and nitrogen content 1%-2%). Therefore, the sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) produced during combustion are far less than fossil fuels, reducing the risk of acid rain and photochemical pollution.
Controlling Particulate Matter Pollution:
Using high-efficiency dust removal equipment (such as bag filters), the smoke and dust (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀) produced by biomass pellet combustion can be effectively controlled, with emissions meeting strict environmental standards (such as the EU's biomass energy emission standards).
3. Promoting Waste Resource Utilization and Reducing Environmental Pollution
Solving the Challenges of Agricultural/Forestry Waste Disposal:
Crop straw, forestry harvesting, and processing waste. Indiscriminate burning or storage can cause air pollution (such as open-air burning of straw, which contributes to smog) and soil and water pollution (such as leachate from waste decay).
Biomass pellets solidify these wastes into a form, transforming them into clean energy, effectively turning waste into treasure.
4.Promoting Energy Structure Transformation and Supporting Sustainable Development
An Important Supplement to Renewable Energy:
Biomass pellets are a renewable energy source (the raw materials can be rapidly regenerated through planting). Compared to solar and wind energy, they offer advantages such as high energy density, convenient storage and transportation, and stable supply. They can offset the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources and contribute to the diversification of the energy structure.
The environmental value of biomass pellets is not absolute "zero pollution." Rather, they offer a "green alternative" to fossil fuels through three key pathways: balanced carbon cycles, low pollutant emissions, and waste resource utilization. This balance is achieved by achieving a balance between energy supply and ecological protection. Their widespread application plays an irreplaceable role in addressing climate change, improving environmental quality, and promoting a circular economy, making them a crucial option for global energy transformation and sustainable development.