Better Biomass: new name ‘NTA 8080 Approved’ certificate
2015-04-22
Certificates issued to companies which produce, trade or process sustainable biomass, based on NTA 8080, are now called ‘Better Biomass’. Anticipating the publication of the revised version of the sustainability standard for biomass, NTA 8080, the certification system has been given a fresh look.
The new name Better Biomass including the new branding and logo is the first step in the update of the certification system. Companies that have obtained the Better Biomass certificate, use this certificate to demonstrate compliance with the sustainability criteria, covering aspects like greenhouse gas reduction, biodiversity, the environment, prosperity and wellbeing.
System update
The sustainability criteria in NTA 8080 and the certification scheme linked to this standard, are currently under revision. The scope is extended to cover sustainability of biomass for application in not only bioenergy but also biobased products. New aspects, including carbon debt, indirect land use change (ILUC) and cascading of biomass, have been taken into account. Publication of the updated version of the certification system is expected in the second half of this year. NEN facilitates this process as an independent manager of certification schemes. Certification is done by certification bodies that are affiliated to the system.
International sustainability certificate
Better Biomass is the international sustainability certificate for all types of biomass, including biofuels, solid and gaseous biomass as well as biobased products later on this year.
The certification system has been recognized by the European Commission for demonstrating compliance with the European sustainability criteria as laid down in the Renewable Energy Directive (2009/28/EC). NTA 8080 is also mentioned in relation to the sustainability criteria for solid biomass as part of the Dutch Energy agreement (Energieakkoord).
More information
More information is available on the new website: www.betterbiomass.com.
Technical questions can be addressed to Harmen Willemse, phone +31 (0)15 2 690 295, e-mail info@betterbiomass.nl.