Biomass fuels, energy, carbon, and global climate changes
There is widespread concern that observed increases in the concentration of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the earth`s atmosphere will ultimately lead to changes in the earth`s climate. Although it is clear that the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide is increasing and that the increase is being driven in large measure by the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), the climatic consequences of increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide are not so clear. Recognizing that fossil fuels play a very important role in the economies and lifestyles of people throughout the world, and acknowledging that great uncertainty exists regarding the climatic consequences of burning fossil fuels, it is reasonable to ask if the global economy can be powered in ways that might have less impact on the environment because they discharge less carbon dioxide. Oak Ridge National Laboratory has long been involved in research on alternative energy systems. Much of this research, including the Department of Energy`s Biofuels Feedstock Development Program in ORNL`s Environmental Sciences Division, began as efforts to develop domestic sources of clean, inexpensive energy. Biomass fuels used in efficient ways might provide a sustainable source of such energy. Researchers in the Biofuels Feedstock Development Program are now studying the environmental and economic issues that stem from biomass production and use as well as developing efficient new biomass energy crops and cropping systems.
- OSTI ID:
- 254559
- Journal Information:
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory Review, Journal Name: Oak Ridge National Laboratory Review Journal Issue: 2-3 Vol. 28; ISSN ORNRAH; ISSN 0048-1262
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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