ASTM International and CSA Group have signed an agreement to jointly develop a standard for evaluating biomass supply chain risk.
The collaboration builds on CSA Group's existing CSA W209 standard, published as a National Standard of Canada, with the aim of expanding its use and impact. The new joint standard is intended to increase the reliability of bio-project risk assessment by establishing a standardised and recognised protocol for identifying and evaluating biomass supply chain risks across North America and internationally.
Development of the standard forms the first part of a two-phase process designed to help drive capital into bioeconomy plant construction more quickly and cost-effectively. The second phase will use the new standard, alongside complementary technical specifications, to develop a biomass risk rating framework. This tool is intended to support independent third-party assessments of feedstock risk for bio-project supply chains, helping developers, investors and manufacturers make more informed siting and investment decisions.
Dan Smith, vice president of standards and membership at ASTM International, described the collaboration with CSA Group as an exciting opportunity, citing shared interests between the two organisations as the basis for what he hopes will become a strong, ongoing partnership.
Ray Woo, vice president of standards development at CSA Group, said the collaboration would help scale consistent and credible risk assessment practices internationally by building on Canada's existing national standard and extending its reach through ASTM. He added that the effort supports bioeconomy development while promoting investment in communities across North America and beyond.
The standard is intended to support a broad range of bioeconomy stakeholders, including project developers, biomass manufacturers, investors and lenders involved in planning, developing and financing biomass-based facilities. By offering a consistent approach to identifying and assessing supply chain risk, it is designed to inform site selection, investment decisions and third-party assessments across different jurisdictions.
The joint standard is expected to undergo public review in autumn 2026, with publication targeted for early 2027.
ASTM and CSA Group sign agreement to develop biomass supply chain risk standard
