CSA Group Testing & Certification Inc. (CSA Group) and ASTM International (ASTM) have signed an agreement to develop a joint standard on evaluating biomass supply chain risk. The collaboration builds on CSA Group’s existing CSA W209 standard, published as a National Standard of Canada, and aims to expand its use and impact.
The new joint standard will increase the reliability of bio-project risk assessment by meeting the need for a standardized and recognized protocol for identifying and evaluating biomass supply chain risks across North America and internationally.
Two-phase process
The development of the joint standard is the first part of a two-phase process to help drive capital into bioeconomy plant construction more quickly and cost-efficiently.
The second phase will involve using the new standard and complementary technical specifications to develop a biomass risk rating framework.
This tool will further support independent third-party assessments of feedstock risk for bio-project supply chains, helping project developers, investors, and manufacturers make more informed siting and investment decisions.
This is an incredibly exciting opportunity to collaborate with CSA Group. Given our many shared interests, we are optimistic that this marks the start of a strong and ongoing partnership, said Dan Smith, VP, Standards and Membership, at ASTM International.
Provide support across the bioeconomy
The standard is intended to support a wide range of interested parties across the bioeconomy.
Project developers, biomass manufacturers, investors, lenders, and other market participants involved in the planning, development, and financing of biomass-based facilities will all find value.
By providing a consistent approach to identifying and assessing biomass supply chain risks, the standard helps inform site selection, investment decisions, and third-party assessments across different jurisdictions.
This new joint standard is expected to undergo public review in the Fall of 2026, with the ultimate publication in early 2027.
CSA Group is pleased to be collaborating with ASTM to expand standardization for the identification, assessment, and management of risks across the biomass supply chain. By building on CSA Group’s existing Canadian national standard and working with ASTM to extend its reach, this collaboration will help scale consistent, credible risk assessment practices internationally. This valued effort supports the development of the bioeconomy while promoting investment in communities across North America and beyond, said Ray Woo, VP of Standards Development at CSA Group.
