All Flashcards
Define Biomass Energy.
Burning organic matter to produce heat, converted into electricity.
What is deforestation?
The clearing of forests for other land uses.
Define Carbon Neutrality.
Balancing carbon emissions with carbon removal.
What is EROI?
Energy Return on Investment: energy produced divided by energy used.
Define Municipal Solid Waste.
Waste from households, businesses, and institutions.
What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?
Organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure at ordinary room temperature.
Define Landfill Gas.
Methane produced by decomposing waste in landfills.
What is meant by 'renewable resource'?
A resource that is replenished naturally and over relatively short periods.
Define 'sustainability'.
Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
What are particulates?
Small particles suspended in the air that can be harmful to human health.
Why is sustainable management crucial for biomass?
Prevents deforestation, habitat loss, and species extinction.
Explain the carbon cycle relevance to biomass.
Biomass utilizes carbon already in the cycle; sustainable use maintains balance.
How does biomass relate to renewable resources?
Waste is continuously produced, making it a renewable resource if managed well.
Explain why location matters for biomass energy.
Biomass is practical where other energy sources are limited due to wide availability.
How can sustainable forestry improve biomass energy?
Maintains forest ecosystems, ensures continuous biomass supply, reduces deforestation.
How does using agricultural residues promote sustainability?
Reduces waste, provides energy source, minimizes land use for dedicated crops.
How does capturing landfill gas help the environment?
Reduces methane emissions (potent greenhouse gas), generates energy.