We also received a high number of written submissions from stakeholders.8 Particular concerns drawn to our attention included: a. the impact of biomass production on biodiversity, forest stocks and the environment more generally. b. the terms of the agreement for transitional support to Drax power station from 2027 to 2031 that government recently announced. c. the role played by smaller biomass power stations in the UK in providing heat and power and how they contribute to waste disposal. d. the technical and other challenges in launching BECCS in the UK at the pace and scale assumed by government plans. e. the effectiveness of independent accreditation schemes that confirm whether biomass has been sustainably produced. 4 C&AG’s Report, para 2 5 C&AG’s Report, para 2 6 DESNZ, Biomass Strategy, August 2023 7 C&AG’s Report, para 3 8 Committee of Public Accounts, The Government’s support for Biomass - Written evidence 9 Assuring the sustainability of biomass