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www.healthlink.org

Dear 'Links,
    We're still wondering WHEN the announcement, mentioned by the Governor just a month ago in the Marblehead High School Library, will come from Dominion and WHAT that announcement will be.
     We've heard whispers that biomass, toted as a "renewable fuel," may be combusted to fire Salem Harbor's boilers.  Biomass is a term used to describe municipal trash, rubber tires, construction and demolition materials from buildings, animal waste, paper. 
    Incinerating these items add their toxins to the air. Transporting them is another energy-intensive factor. And if the source is wood from Massachusetts' forests and/or Brazil's rainforests, will Dominion ensure a steady supply without destroying those forests?
    "Renewable" means replenishable... how long a time does it take to replenish a tree? Should our society continue its wanton throwaway culture to produce a large waste stream to burn up?
    We are trying to learn what we can about biomass - its definition, the impact on health, the atmosphere and our habitat and ask you to do the same. To get a primer on biomass, go to http://www.energyjustice.net/biomass/
    And please note the local article below in today's news.
 
Taking a positon on the Salem Power Plant
Salem News - June 19, 2009
by Andrea Fox
 
Soon there will be a big announcement by Dominion, and many are concerned that the plant will switch to biomass...read more

P.S. Don't forget - Solar Now Renewable Energy Fair,
Saturday, June 20, Beverly Greenergy Park, 11 AM - 4:30 PM, rain or shine. Information, music, film "Burning the Future," rrefreshments, and more!

 
HealthLink
Box 301
Swampscott, MA 01907
781-598-1115
 
 
HealthLink mission: To protect and improve public health by reducing and eliminating toxins and pollutants from our environment through research, education and community action.