Safety concerns over new biomass boilers are preventing their use in Edinburgh schools, despite their promotion by the Scottish Government.

Biomass fuel originates from crops that are regarded as a sustainable source of fuel, constantly absorbing and then releasing carbon in a replenishing cycle. So, the theory goes, they are far better for the environment than fossil fuels.

But new fears have been raised over the production of particulates in the emissions from biomass boilers. And these particulates have worried scientists who think that they may cause people breathing problems, especially children.

So new biomass boiler systems destined for seven Edinburgh schools have been put on hold whilst further reports are studied.

But Scottish Government scientists are adamant that the new biomass boilers are safe, as long as they are used together with technology that removes any particulates from the emissions. This depends on filters and the correct type of chimneys being installed.

Thus a stalemate has been reached between the council chiefs of the authority where the schools are situated and the Scottish Government. But cynics have pointed out that the decision to install the boilers is actually down to worries over costs and that health screens are a convenient excuse to delay the project.

Supporters of the biomass boilers point that it has always been known that their installation has depended on emission cleaning technology which ensures their safety.

Guest Article by Neil Camp

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