At the end of 2024, the Environmental Company of the State of São Paulo (CETESB) published Board Decision (DD) No. 107-2024/I/C, establishing new emission limits for Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) and Particulate Matter (PM) in sources that use wood derivatives as fuel. The new standards came into effect on the date of publication and apply to boilers and furnaces with nominal capacity from 5 t/h of steam or 5 MW. 

These changes reflect CETESB's efforts within the scope of the energy transition to balance the benefits of using biomass and the impacts on air quality.

The "Short Blanket" Paradox

The generation of biogenic (non-fossil) CO2, from burning wood, is considered a sustainable climate alternative for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. On the other hand, the use of wood and derivatives as an energy source can result in a greater impact on air quality, in relation to the emission of pollutants such as NOx and MP, when compared to natural gas.

The Search for Balance: The Role of DD No. 107-2024/I/C

It is exactly in this context that DD No. 107-2024/I/C, published on November 21, 2024. Companies in the industrial sector that use wood or its derivatives as fuel for energy generation face the challenge of adapting to the new emission limits, while seeking to promote the benefits of biomass (wood and derivatives) as a renewable energy source.

Who Does It Impact?

The new requirements mainly impact companies that use sugarcane bagasse, firewood or other wood derivatives as their exclusive fuel or in mixtures with other fuels. Industries that depend on these sources for energy generation must assess the need to adapt to the new emission limits.

Count on EBP's Specialized Consulting

EBP has experts in air quality and offers customized solutions for companies in all sectors:

• Diagnosis and Analysis of the environmental impact of your operation.
• Selection of pollutant emission control technologies.
• Process Improvements in relation to NOx and MP emission limits.

Contact us via email [email protected] and find out how we can help your company face this challenge and continue its operations in a sustainable manner and in accordance with environmental requirements.