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.
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.
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.