Public Health Institute of Western Mass opposes biomass plant in Springfield

The Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy convened on June 18, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding air quality and public health in Massachusetts, particularly in Western Massachusetts. The meeting featured a presentation from the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts, based in Springfield, which highlighted the urgent need to improve health outcomes in the region's diverse communities.

The discussion began with a focus on the health impacts of particulate matter in the air, particularly concerning vulnerable populations such as children with asthma and seniors with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Institute expressed strong opposition to incentives that would encourage biomass burning energy companies to establish operations in urban areas, especially Springfield. They emphasized that while biomass burning may appear environmentally friendly, it actually contributes to high levels of particulate matter emissions, which are linked to various chronic health issues.

Key statistics were presented, noting that particulate matter 2.5 is a significant outdoor air pollutant associated with increased morbidity from diseases such as asthma, COPD, cardiovascular disease, and even diabetes. The Institute also pointed out the broader implications of air pollution, including its effects on lung development, low birth weight, preterm births, and neurological conditions like stroke and Alzheimer's disease.

Despite recent progress in reducing asthma-related emergency room visits and hospitalizations in Springfield, the city remains a significant concern, being designated as the fourth worst asthma capital in the nation by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America in 2024. The American Lung Association's 2025 report gave Hamden County a grade of D for eight-hour particulate pollution, and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's 2023 air quality report indicated that Springfield Liberty Street had the highest PM 2.5 rating in the state.

The meeting underscored a troubling trend of increasing poor air quality days in Western Massachusetts, attributed to climate change and its effects, such as hotter and drier summers and more frequent wildfires. The Public Health Institute urged the committee to reject subsidies for biomass energy, particularly in light of a proposed biomass plant in Springfield. They called for Massachusetts to take a leadership role in protecting public health by safeguarding air quality.

In conclusion, the committee was urged to support and expedite favorable reporting on bills aimed at addressing these pressing health and environmental concerns. The meeting highlighted the intersection of public health, environmental policy, and community advocacy in shaping a healthier future for Massachusetts residents.