Robbins Lumber Inc is a family-owned company that has been in the lumber business for over 130 years. Based in Searsmont, Maine, the company has a long history of sustainable forestry practices and environmental stewardship. In recent years, Robbins Lumber has expanded its focus to include renewable energy projects, specifically in the biomass and waste sectors.

Biomass is a renewable energy source that comes from organic matter such as wood, crops, and agricultural waste. Robbins Lumber has been using biomass to power its sawmill for years, but in 2009, the company took it a step further by building a 1.5 MW biomass power plant. The plant uses wood chips and sawdust from the sawmill as fuel to generate electricity, which is sold to the local utility company. This project not only provides a new source of revenue for the company but also reduces the amount of waste that would otherwise be sent to a landfill.

In addition to the biomass power plant, Robbins Lumber has also invested in a waste-to-energy project. The company partnered with a local waste management company to build a facility that converts municipal solid waste into energy. The process involves sorting and separating the waste, then using a gasification system to convert it into a synthetic gas that can be burned to generate electricity. The facility is capable of processing up to 25 tons of waste per day and produces enough electricity to power 500 homes.

Robbins Lumber's commitment to renewable energy is not just about generating electricity. The company also uses biomass as a heat source for its kilns, which are used to dry lumber. By using wood waste as a fuel source, the company is able to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and lower its carbon footprint. In addition, the company has implemented energy-efficient practices throughout its operations, such as installing LED lighting and upgrading its equipment to more efficient models.

Beyond its renewable energy projects, Robbins Lumber is also committed to sustainable forestry practices. The company owns and manages over 20,000 acres of forestland in Maine, which is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The FSC certification ensures that the company's forestry practices are environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically viable. Robbins Lumber also participates in the Maine Forest Products Council's Sustainable Forestry Initiative, which promotes sustainable forestry practices throughout the state.

Robbins Lumber's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own operations. The company is actively involved in the community and supports local organizations that promote environmental stewardship and sustainability. For example, the company has sponsored the Searsmont Energy Committee's Solarize Searsmont program, which encourages residents to install solar panels on their homes. Robbins Lumber has also donated land to the town of Searsmont for the creation of a community forest, which will be managed using sustainable forestry practices.

In conclusion, Robbins Lumber Inc is a company that has a long history of sustainable forestry practices and environmental stewardship. In recent years, the company has expanded its focus to include renewable energy projects in the biomass and waste sectors. These projects not only provide a new source of revenue for the company but also reduce waste and lower its carbon footprint. Robbins Lumber's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own operations and into the community, where it supports local organizations that promote environmental stewardship and sustainability. Overall, Robbins Lumber is a shining example of how a company can be successful while also being environmentally responsible.