Integrating Woody Biochar, Women, and Youth in Maine's Bioenergy Industry: Benefits and Challenges

Over 30% of Maine's forestry industry is made up of women, with women in the minority comprising a small part of this. Improving representation in this industry can serve as a way for more women to enter the industry, to the benefit of their own professional paths and addressing climate change. Here, we share an effective approach to increase the number of women in the bioenergy sector, with an example of programming that centers mentoring and targets women in underrepresented groups. We found that approximately 29% of women hold executive or leadership positions in Maine companies related to bioenergy. We also discuss current strategies for improving gender-diverse teams in the bioenergy industry and increasing women's presence in this industry. Presented as a case study, our training program had two goals: (1) a focus on the benefits of biochar and its importance in boosting Maine's economy and mitigating climate change; and (2) using gender-diverse teams to encourage the next generation of girls and young women. Research universities are well-positioned to offer similar programs, and thus play a critical role in increasing and retaining the number of young women in forestry, agricultural, renewable energy, sustainable materials, and technologies programs. Our experience illustrates that gender-diverse teams can lead to better collaboration, innovation, and teamwork in the bioenergy and agricultural industry. This is the dynamic environment that can foster the relationship-building and mentoring necessary to retain underrepresented groups in the industry.