Technology companies in European Union are reducing the carbon footprint of wind farms by making use of wood as a raw material for the construction of wind turbine blades and towers. This adoption of technology can make wind farms more sustainable in the longer run.
Renewable sources of energy might seem like they are completely emission-free, but the materials and processes used to construct machinery and equipment to harness this energy come with emissions of their own.
Wind turbine blades are traditionally made out of carbon fibre or fibreglass which are both plastics sourced from fossil fuels. Blades have a lifespan of about 25 years after which they are either incinerated or end up in landfills. This waste could reach 43 million metric tons by 2050.
Wind turbine towers are constructed with concrete and steel. The environmental impact of mining, refining, and transportation of raw materials adds to the carbon profile of the wind energy industry.
The use of wood as a raw material for the construction of wind turbine blades and towers comes with another benefit. Since the parts are considerably lighter compared to traditional designs they can be transported easily without special permits to the location.
This innovative use of wood as a raw material is making wind energy projects greener and more sustainable for investors.
To know more, view our ESG page.
