Life Cycle Analysis of different energy sources
Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) uses a 'cradle-to-grave' approach to determine the collective environmental impact of all the phases of a product, from its creation to its use and finally, its disposal. The Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH) performed an LCA for wood energy while participating in the ECHAINE research project. CERTH estimated emissions of pollutants to the air, water and soil during the collection, processing, transportation and consumption stages for energy wood. Subsequent negative impacts on human health, local ecosystems, etc. were also assessed. The same methodology was then applied for traditional types of energy. Comparing the results for a standard amount of thermal energy production revealed some interesting findings. For example, wood energy boasts a significant advantage in the area of greenhouse gas emissions. Using wood harvest by-products for energy production also avoids problems associated with the disposal of this waste. On the other hand, some environmental issues were exacerbated by wood burning, such as eutrophication. As the threat of climate change continues to intensify, switching to wood energy offers several benefits. Such a move would help EU Member States meet their Kyoto targets while contributing to the regional goal of increasing energy production from RES. To this end, CERTH arrived at some recommendations to help curb the negative environmental aspects associated with the LCA of wood energy. These measures include using low-NOx burners, hybrid vehicles for transport and so on. More information about CERTH's LCA can be found on the ECHAINE web site at http:// www.echaine.org
