Presenter: Greg Latta, University of Idaho
This presentation focuses on the issue of baseline choice in evaluating the greenhouse gas (GHG) implications of biomass usage in energy generation. Baseline determination essentially involves some sort of modeling effort to establish a level of GHG emissions and sequestration over time against which an alternative future involving some level of biomass utilization for energy can be evaluated. In forestry, these models typically balance silviculture and harvesting activities with forest manufacturing and product demand through basic market mechanics. We will look across a range of forest market models in use today and discuss how geographic range, sectoral scope, and temporal dynamics can influence baseline and thus simulated response to additional biomass demand.About this webinar series
The Clean Power Plan (CPP) was announced by President Obama and the EPA in August 2015 and provides the first-ever national standards that address carbon pollution from power plants. The final rule takes into account over 4.3 million stakeholder and public comments to ease its implementation, with individual states, tribes, and territories building their own plans to meet mandated carbon reduction goals specific to each planning entity. The proposed state plans outlining how this will be achieved must contain specific steps for each tool in a portfolio of methods used to meet state-level goals: emissions trading, increasing energy efficiency on both supply and demand sides, shifting coal generation to natural gas generation, and/or increasing renewable power generation. That last category leaves room for biomass energy, but stakeholders in the bioeconomy still seek clarification on exactly how biomass could or should fit in to a state plan. This webinar series begins to tackle that question, providing guidance, information from cutting-edge research, and expert perspectives on the role sustainable bioenergy can play in state plans designed to meet CPP requirements. Though the US Supreme Court recently granted a stay on the CPP, many states continue developing their individual plans, and the need for information and clarity regarding this policy remains.
The Clean Power Plan series is a co-sponsored effort by the USDA NIFA AFRI Regional Bioenergy System Coordinated Agricultural Projects, which focus on sustainable production of advanced biofuels, industrial chemicals, and biobased products to enhance existing agricultural systems, create rural jobs, and achieve other goals related to energy security and sustainability.
Visit the CPP Webinar Series Homepage: http://www.newbio.psu.edu/cppwebinar.asp
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