Live Presentation: How to Build a Better Fire

Wood has been a burning controversy in environmental circles since the 1990s when it was credited as a renewable fuel.  What we do know is that you can reduce the environmental impact of burning wood with better techniques.  We will explore wood burning technology on the commercial/industrial level and how to build a better fire at home.  Come ask your burning questions!

To get us started, Jay Clark of AFS Energy Systems, a leading supplier of industrial renewable biomass systems, will share his extensive experience with industrial wood burning processes:  what types of biomaterials are used and which ones work best from a value, efficiency, and environmental impact perspective.  He will share the importance of considering the complete system, including preparing the feed stocks for combustion, controlling emissions and handling and disposition of the remaining ash.  He will differentiate good from bad wood burning applications and share industry improvements that have made wood burning better. To view Jay’s slides:

Next, John Ackerly, founder and President of Alliance for Green Heat, a non-profit that promotes cleaner, more efficient and more affordable renewable heating, will help us understand the issues and opportunities for building a better home fire. We don’t typically associate home wood burning with efficiency or emissions, but there are vast differences between fireplaces and wood stoves and an efficient wood burning stove.  The equipment is important, but so is the fuel, and the “operator.”  All three can make the difference between a serious assault to the environment and a sustainable way to heat your home.  Are home fires regulated? If not, should they be? Come find out. The answer may surprise you. John will guide you through just what it takes to build a better fire.  To view John’s slides: