A multi-million pound biomass unit is due to be opened in Scotland, it has been announced.

UK Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks will open the factory at the European headquarters of Norbord near Stirling, which will be used to power its Cowie factory and subsequently cut the level of emissions.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Mr Wicks has congratulated the company on their decision to use bio fuel. Biomass is organic material that is burned to create renewable energy.

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"Using biomass in this way will reduce carbon emissions and thereby plat an important role in tackling climate change," Mr Wicks said.

"The new plant at Cowie is a real success story, utilising waste wood and residues that would normally end up in landfill. The investment they made, and commitment shown, is commendable."

Steve Roebusk, Director of Health, Safety and Environmental Affairs at Norbord also advised: "Waste should only go to landfill after the recyclable parts have been recovered and then the rest burned to produce energy.

"This source should be used in preference to virgin biomass material, which should be used and then recycled, only being combusted for energy generation when it has reached the end of the recycling chain."

(JM)