Life-cycle assessment of greenhouse gas emissions

Abstract

In anticipation of stricter emissions standards as a result of President Clinton's executive order in 1999 to improve energy efficiency, researchers at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL) have studied greenhouse gas emissions at the INEEL. Greenhouse gases are believed to trap heat in the atmosphere just as a greenhouse traps heat in its confines - hence the name greenhouse gas. Greenhouse gas at the INEEL is predominantly carbon dioxide released from coal-, oil-, and natural-gas-fired operations. The INEEL also assumes responsibility for greenhouse gas from fossil-fuel-fired generating plants that provide the national laboratory with electricity. Emissions at or claimed by the INEEL are declining, but achieving reduction goals will require continued reduction efforts. Researchers studied the extent and fluctuations of greenhouse gas - in other words, the full life cycle of the emissions - and established a baseline of those emissions for 1990. The researchers then determined emissions trends in subsequent years from 1991-1998. Surprisingly, results reveal that the level of greenhouse gas increases or decreases is in lock step with increases and decreases of hydropower, which actually hinges on precipitation levels. Future emissions studies need to consider the impact on emissions levels of energy alternatives such as renewable energy, low-emission fuels, biofuels, and carbon sequestration. These studies should also predetermine the cost-effectiveness of emission-reduction alternatives.