Biomass Carbon Neutrality

Weyerhaeuser grows and manages an abundant, renewable resource — biomass from our sustainably managed forestlands. This biomass should be a key element of the country’s renewable energy strategies.

Unlike fossil fuels, which emit carbon into the atmosphere from geologic sources that are not renewable, carbon associated with the combustion of biomass is part of a natural cycle that maintains a carbon balance by removing emitted carbon from the atmosphere through photosynthesis and storing it in plants, trees and soil. This balance is reflected in widely-accepted science acknowledging that the combustion of wood biomass for energy in countries with increasing forest inventories (such as the United States, for example) does not increase atmospheric carbon.

This biomass fuel source helps reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

We derive the majority of the energy used in our manufacturing facilities from carbon-neutral biomass. By deriving the majority of our energy from biomass rather than fossil fuel, we are displacing emissions of geologic carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere through fossil fuel combustion.

Additionally, in 2008, we partnered with Chevron to form Catchlight Energy, a joint-venture company focused on developing cellulosic biofuel from non-food sources. The joint venture will research and develop technology for growing and converting cellulose-based biomass into economical, low-carbon biofuels.

We are also exploring opportunities for other materials that could be developed from renewable biomass, including carbon fibers, textiles and materials that could replace many fossil-fuel based substances. Learn more about our partnerships working on renewable energy and fibers on our Collaborations and Partnerships page.