Biomass Energy Foundation began in 1984 with the vision of Harry La Fontaine who developed a knowledge base of scientific research on burning carbon-based materials and utilizing the outcomes of biomass gasification. Dr. Thomas Reed continued the research – envisioning that the downdraft wood stove would provide a safer, healthier alternative cooking system compared to primitive methods of food preparation in developing countries. Today, Biomass Energy Foundation is promoting and distributing scientific research, information and technologies in micro-gasification globally.
Biomass Energy Foundation (BEF) includes a web store where books and reprints of publications maybe purchased that contains in-depth research on the topics of gasification, construction of simplified gasifiers, fuels, bio-char and burn studies. The Woodgas cook stove and the Champion TLUD stove are also available.
Secondly, BEF sponsors Stove Camps that provide training in design and fabrication of small-scale cook stoves, while studying the characteristics of the burn units to use in cooking, heating, illumination and bio-char. These camps are held globally – there is a schedule of up-coming events.
The camps are conducted by BEF certified trainers who are well-prepared to address the cultural, social, environmental and scientific aspects of micro-gasification and its benefits economically and practically in developing communities.