ASHBACK - Ash from biofuel in energy plants back to the forest and field; ecotoxicological consequences

Ash from combustion of biomass in Danish power stations combustion of biomass contains heavy metals in concentrated form. Therefore, the ash is today considered as toxic waste and it can only be distributed back into the soil in small amounts. Thorough investigation of different types of ash and their effect on various environments, this project will enable proper reintroduction of ash into nature on a larger scale. This will strengthen the economy of power stations, as expenses to depositing the ash are reduced. This solution is also more ecologically sustainable as nutrients in the ash will be reintroduced into fields and plantations. Willows, Norway Spruce and straw are among the most important biofuels in Denmark. As they grow in very different ecosystems, the ash will have different impact when reintroduced. ASHBACK investigates effects of ash on the environment in the plantations and fields where biomass is grown by exposing the soil to the ash in the field and in simplified lab systems. Thus, the project will contribute in making energy production significantly more ecologically and economically sustainable.