A series of free workshops throughout the northern rivers this month will look at how to create energy from organic waste and materials.
The first of four workshops, organised by local councils partnering with the Northern Rivers Sustain Energy, kicks off at Nimbin this Thursday (15 October).
Organisers say the forums enable people to find out more and share their thoughts about the prospect of bioenergy projects in the region and its role in a sustainable energy future.
The second workshop will be held at the Murwillumbah Civic Centre’s Canvas & Kettle Room on Tuesday, 20 October, from 6pm-8pm, the third at Casino on Thursday 22 October and the fourth one at Lismore on Tuesday, 27 October.
Workshop leader Dr Richard Parsons said the forums aimed to determine what community support exists for prospective bioenergy projects in the region ‘and what future projects need to consider to gain a so-called “social licence”’.
‘Discussions will focus on the potential benefits, concerns and challenges of various bioenergy technologies and energy sources,’ Dr Parsons said.
Participants will be invited to describe their level of support for prospective bioenergy industries
Bioenergy is a form of energy produced from biomass such as materials from plants, animals and their by-products. Examples include sugar cane residue, livestock waste, municipal green waste, industry by-products from food and beverage production, forestry residues, and plants or weeds grown for energy.
People interested can register their attendance at www.eventbrite.com.au under ‘Bioenergy in the Northern Rivers’. Attendance is free and light refreshments will be provided.
For more information, contact Richard Parsons at [email protected] or visit www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/SustainabilityProgram
We need to return our organic “waste” to our soil not burn it. We have enough sunshine to produce all the energy we need. If we burn our organics we need to keep using more and more artificial fertiliser, and that is not sustainable as is claimed
Quite right, Robyn. The first workshop was a great success. Places still available for Murwillumbah this Tuesday 20th, Casino this Thursday 22nd, and Lismore on Tuesday 27th. See eventbrite.com.au