Springfield Biomass Plant Webinar – June 25 Update
- For two decades, the Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition has worked to lower asthma rates and support families.
- Burning organic materials like wood, a process known as biomass energy, releases harmful particulate matter into the air.
- The Public health Institute of Western Massachusetts is hosting a webinar on Wednesday, June 25, from noon to 1 p.m.
The Springfield biomass plant battle intensifies. Recent court rulings have revived permits for the plant, sparking renewed opposition from community groups concerned about air pollution. This update covers developments in the fight, revealing how community groups are working to block the plant’s construction. The Public Health Institute of Western massachusetts hosts a crucial webinar on Wednesday, June 25, where experts, including State Sen. Adam Gomez and Dr. matthew Sadof, will discuss the health impacts of biomass energy and outline strategies for public involvement. Proposed legislation aims to eliminate financial incentives for biomass, potentially halting the project. This could be incredibly crucial for the Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition and others who have been fighting for cleaner air for many years. News Directory 3 monitors the situation closely, offering in-depth coverage. Discover what’s next for this critical issue.
Biomass Plant Fight Heats Up in Western Massachusetts
Updated June 10, 2025
For two decades, the Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition has worked to lower asthma rates and support families. However, recent court rulings that reinstated permits for a Springfield biomass plant threaten to undo this progress.
Burning organic materials like wood, a process known as biomass energy, releases harmful particulate matter into the air. Community organizations and health advocates have actively opposed the proposed plant for over 10 years. State Sen. Adam Gomez and state Rep. Orlando Ramos have introduced legislation aimed at removing state financial incentives for biomass, which could undermine the plant’s economic viability.
The Public health Institute of Western Massachusetts is hosting a webinar on Wednesday, June 25, from noon to 1 p.m. the webinar will cover the health effects of biomass, how the proposed legislation could help prevent the plant’s construction, and ways for the public to get involved.
Speakers at the webinar include Gomez; Michael Fenton, Springfield City Council president; Rusty Polsgrove, associate director at Arise for Social Justice; and Dr.Matthew Sadof, a Baystate Health pediatrician.
What’s next
The fight against the biomass plant continues as community groups await legislative action and prepare to educate the public on the potential health risks of biomass energy.