All Flashcards
What is Biomass Energy?
Burning organic matter to produce heat, converted into electricity.
Define Carbon Neutrality.
Burning a fuel source does not add new carbon to the atmosphere.
What is EROI?
Energy Return on Investment; energy gained compared to energy input.
Define Deforestation.
Clearing forests unsustainably, leading to habitat loss and erosion.
What is the effect of over-harvesting wood?
Deforestation and habitat loss.
What is the effect of burning biomass?
Releases CO2, carbon monoxide, and other pollutants.
What is the effect of using ethanol as fuel?
Reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
What is the effect of deforestation?
Habitat destruction and reduced carbon sequestration.
What is the effect of using landfill gas?
Reduces methane emissions from landfills.
What is the effect of unsustainable biomass practices?
Habitat destruction and reduced biodiversity.
What is the effect of using wood chips as fuel?
Reduces landfill waste.
What is the effect of using biomass?
Job creation in harvesting, transportation, and plant operation.
What is the effect of high initial investment costs for the power plant?
Economic losses if deforestation leads to soil erosion and reduced agricultural productivity.
What is the effect of fluctuating fuel costs depending on wood availability?
High initial investment costs for the power plant.
Why is biomass considered renewable?
Waste is continuously produced, replenishing the source.
What is the role of biomass in carbon cycle?
Biomass combustion releases CO2, but sustainable practices aim for carbon neutrality.
What are the sustainability concerns of biomass?
Over-harvesting leads to deforestation and habitat loss.
Why is location important for biomass?
Biomass is practical in areas with limited access to other energy.
Why is the EROI of ethanol important?
It affects the overall sustainability of ethanol as a fuel.
Why is sustainable management crucial for biomass?
To prevent deforestation and habitat loss.
Why is biomass considered carbon neutral?
Burning it doesn't add new carbon to the atmosphere.
What are the limitations of biomass?
Produces pollutants and can lead to deforestation.
What is the importance of biomass regeneration rates?
They determine the sustainability of biomass use.
What are the benefits of biomass energy?
Widely available and can be carbon neutral.