FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 4 June 2008, Jönköping, Sweden Canada joins new World Bioenergy Association Douglas Bradley, President of the Canadian Bioenergy Association (CANBIO) was appointed to represent Canada as a Board Member on the newly formed World Bioenergy Association (WBA). “Finding the best paths for sustainable biomass use is a global challenge, requiring global solutions,” said Mr. Bradley. “But the bioenergy industry is fragmented compared to other renewables such as wind and solar power; biomass ranges from animal waste to leftover wood, and end uses range from heat and power to renewable products that can replace synthetic chemicals and plastics. But for bioenergy to take off, we need to speak with one voice – this is what the World Bioenergy Association is all about.” The WBA aims to be the global voice for bioenergy, and to promote the use of biomass in a sustainable and economically efficient way. The organisation will also promote trade with biofuels and biomass, standardisation of fuels, technical development and research. An important task is to monitor potential for bioenergy in different parts of the world. WBA also plans to help to develop certification systems to ensure that bioenergy is produced in an environmentally-friendly way, and under acceptable working conditions. Chaired by Kent Nyström, president of the Swedish Biomass Association, intended members include Canada, the U.S., Australia, Japan, India, Brazil, Sweden and other EU countries. WBA invites other national and regional bioenergy associations, and associated commercial enterprises, to enquire about membership. “Up to now there hasn’t been any organisation for the bioenergy business on the global level,” said Mr. Nyström. “Bioenergy use can and should be increased in a sustainable way in light of high prices of fossil fuels and their environmental impact on the climate, and by representing bioenergy producers worldwide, WBA can help.” Bioenergy industry representatives and some Board Members from the World Bioenergy Association are expected to attend CANBIO’s annual conference and trade show, Bioenergy from words to action, on October 6-8, 2008.