Webinar on June 25 to Update Proposed Biomass Plant in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD — The Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition has been working for 20 years to support families and decrease asthma rates. Two recent court decisions have revived permits for a biomass plant in Springfield, which could reverse the strides made to prevent poor asthma outcomes.

Biomass energy involves burning organic matter such as wood, which pollutes the air with harmful particulate matter. Community groups and health advocates have been fighting against this proposed plant for more than a decade. But legislation proposed by state Sen. Adam Gomez and state Rep. Orlando Ramos aims to eliminate state financial incentives for biomass, making the proposed plant less viable.

The Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts will present a webinar on Wednesday, June 25 from noon to 1 p.m. to help attendees understand the health impacts of biomass, how this legislation can help block it, and what people can do to make a difference.

Speakers will include Gomez, Springfield City Council President Michael Fenton, Arise for Social Justice Associate Director Rusty Polsgrove, and Dr. Matthew Sadof, a pediatrician with Baystate Health. Click here to register.