The film ‘Threatened Forests’ reveals the hidden truth behind “green energy” in the EU. It’s being shown on EUBioenergy.com during the month of May, a moment when the European Commission is consulting stakeholders on sustainable bioenergy policy.
Filmmaker Benoit Grimont made this documentary because he was struck by the regional opposition, socio-economic and environmental impacts caused by the development of a large scale biomass electricity installation in Gardanne, southern France. He investigated and discovered the implications of using wood for the production of bioenergy as a “green energy”. Speaking to academics, politicians, communities and activists in France and the UK, he then found his way to the United States, where much of the wood that is used for electricity production in the EU is imported.
In this film, he shows that the renewable energy heavily supported by EU countries, is everything but ‘green’ or good for the climate.
If you’re short on time, check out these highlights:
- The film starts in France, with an alarming tale of a huge biomass project that is driving clearcutting there.
- Discussion of USA impacts from pellet manufacture starts at minute 25.
- Excursion to North Carolina hardwood swamp that is being clearcut starts at minute 34.
- Canada forest impacts starts at minute 41.
- Example of “forest certification” at minute 46.