Two Tewkesbury-based not-for-profit organisations which work to uphold sustainability standards for wood and biomass fuels in the UK will share expertise and resources following the launch of a new parent company, this November 2024.
Cleaner Safer Group (CSG) — also based in Tewkesbury — brings together established organisations HETAS and Woodsure, which run their own specialist certification schemes for mineral and wood fuels, as well as schemes on behalf of the UK government including Ready to Burn, the Biomass Suppliers List and smoke control exemption for appliances.
The group has appointed a new non-executive director, Dr Dermot Roddy, to its board to help the organisation leverage industry partnerships to promote the sustainable usage of solid fuels, as well as to diversify technologies that are used to capture biomass energy, beyond individual household appliances.
Having held a number of high profile roles in the sector, including professor of energy at Newcastle University and chairman at North East Biofuels, the appointment of Dr Roddy brings a wealth of scientific and practical knowledge to the organisation.
Through his new role, he says he aims to correct the perception 'that biomass energy is too small to make a significant difference to the UK’s renewable heat goals'.
'I believe the future lies in expanding the range of useable biomass types, developing technologies used for harnessing the energy potential of these potential fuels and looking beyond the confines of individual domestic appliances', Dr Roddy explained.
'As NED, my main goal will be to help CSG further develop its role in working with others in the industry to bring that future to fruition for a cleaner, safer and more sustainable environment.'
As well as developing both organisations, CSG will also provide its own consultation services for public and private sector organisations on air quality improvement and net zero emissions, from helping to navigate environmental regulations to developing strategic guidance and innovative solutions.
