ABBOTSFORD, BC – December 17, 2009
The BC Agricultural Research and Development Corporation (“ARDCorp”) announced today the launch of the Renewable Agri-energy Initiative (“RAI”) and appointment of the Program Manager. This initiative, made possible by a $100,000 investment from the BC Bioenergy Network, will support renewable agri-energy production throughout B.C.’s agricultural sector. The Program Manager will lead this initiative, providing a focal point as well as support and advice critical to the initiatives success.
Renewable agri-energy production and use involve the adoption of technologies on farmland or the use of significant proportions of agricultural feedstocks, including crop by-products, livestock and food processing waste. Renewable agri-energy production will help improve B.C.’s agricultural sectors economic viability, environmental sustainability, long-term self-sufficiency and contribute to the public good by helping to reduce waste disposal volumes, costs and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
To date, there have only been a few renewable agri-energy projects in B.C. This limited adoption results from multiple hurdles, including limited awareness, understanding and resources, unfavourable regulations and the lack of a clear renewable agri-energy champion. To help overcome these hurdles, a RAI has been created.
ARDCorp also announced that they have appointed Mathew Dickson as the RAI Program Manager. “We are pleased to appoint Mathew Dickson as Program Manager of the RAI. Mathew has considerable experience in renewable agri-energy project management and a strong interest in sustainable agriculture. We are excited that he is taking the lead and moving this important initiative forward,” said Dick Klein Geltink, Chair of ARDCorp.
With the growing interest in alternate energy applications in BC, the launch of the Renewable Agri-energy Initiative (RAI) and the appointment of Matt Dickson is both timely and important.” said Michael Weedon, Executive Director of the BC Bioenergy Network.
“Using agricultural waste to generate energy and value added products is smart business.
