Should We Use. Wood energy? for. teacher key. A High School Education Program

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1 Should We Use Wood energy? for teacher key A High School Education Program

2 teacher key Contents Should We Use Wood for Energy? A High School Education Program Section 1: Gathering Information 3 Activity 1: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest 9 Activity 2: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest 15 Activity 3: Biomass Basics Web-quest 22 Activity 4: The World s Forests Web-quest 27 Activity 5: Case Study Jigsaw Section II: Digging Deeper 28 Activity 6: Biomass Perspectives 31 Activity 7: Who s Against Renewable Energy (And Why!)? Section III: Applying Knowledge 33 Activity 12: Pyrolysis Lab 34 Activity 13: Energy from Biomass Lab 35 Activity 14: Creating a Woody Biomass Supply Curve 44 Activity 15: Regional Economic Impact Analysis

3 TEACHER KEY: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest Exploration Guide (1 of 6) activity 1 NAME date period Note to teachers: Many of the questions have multiple correct answers, and many answers will vary. The following teacher key provides sample answers to aid you in assessing student responses. Energy demand is growing in the United States and around the world. At the same time, there is increasing public and political concern about the future of energy resources and the impact of energy generation and consumption on the environment. With energy demand increasing, it is important for us to know where our energy comes from, how much we consume, and how we can contribute to energy conservation and a clean energy future. This Web-quest Exploration Guide will direct you to several online resources related to energy. Follow the instructions and complete the worksheet to turn in to your teacher. I. What is nonrenewable energy? Go to the United States Environmental Protection Agency Clean Energy Web site: 4 Click on How does energy use affect my environment under the Energy and You menu. 4 Click on the links to Coal, Oil, Natural Gas, and Nuclear and fill out the following chart: Nonrenewable Energy Resource Coal Description Environmental Impacts Oil Complete descriptions of each energy source and environmental impacts can be found at the Web site. Natural Gas Nuclear Next, go to the Environmental Literacy Council Web site: 4 Click on Energy on the left menu and then Click on Fossil Fuels on the right menu. 4 Answer the following questions: 1. What are some advantages of using fossil fuels? Fossil fuels are abundantly available, and the technology and infrastructure needed to produce energy from fossil fuels is already in place. Fossil fuels are also relatively inexpensive when compared with renewable energy resources. Why do experts describe the rate of fossil fuel use as unsustainable? Fossil fuels have been used extensively since the Industrial Revolution, and some experts believe we may have reached the peak for oil extraction and production and that we may reach the peak for gas and coal soon. Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 1: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest 3

4 activity 1 TEACHER KEY: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest Exploration Guide (2 of 6) II. What is renewable energy? Go to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Web site: 4 Fill out the following chart. List the seven renewable energy resources described on the NREL Web site, and briefly describe ways in which these resources can produce energy (click on each link to get more information). Renewable Energy Resource Solar Description Solar power can be used directly for heating and lighting homes and other buildings; for generating electricity; and for hot water heating, solar cooling, and a variety of commercial and industrial uses. Wind Wind energy can be captured with wind turbines. Turbines can be used as stand-alone applications, or they can be connected to a utility power grid. Biomass Biomass can be used to produce electricity, transportation fuels, or chemicals. Hydrogen Hydrogen fuel cells electrochemically combine hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity and heat for homes and cars. Geothermal Earth s internal heat can be used in a variety of ways including electric power production and the heating and cooling of buildings. Ocean The ocean can produce thermal energy from the sun s heat and mechanical energy from the tides and waves. Hydropower Flowing water creates energy that can be captured and turned into electricity. 4 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 1: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest

5 TEACHER KEY: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest Exploration Guide (3 of 6) activity 1 III. Renewable Energy Video Go to the National Geographic Video Web site: 4 Click on Energy under the Environmental Video menu. 4 Put on your headphones and watch the video, Alternative Energy (the video will play automatically). 4 Answer the following questions: 1. Why do you think renewable energy is gaining attention in the U.S.? Example answer: Gas and electricity prices have been increasing and recent scientific research on the impacts of global warming resulting from human consumption of fossil fuels is now widely accepted. What do you think are the barriers that are preventing the U.S. from utilizing more renewable energy sources? Example answer: Renewable energy sources require retrofitting and updating of energy generating facilities. Updating energy technologies will require major monetary investments and will likely be more expensive in the beginning. Fossil fuels are readily available, relatively inexpensive, and infrastructure and technologies are already in place to convert fossil fuels into energy. IV. International Energy Consumption Go to the International Energy Agency Dynamic Maps Web site: 4 Click on Go to the Map under Map Energy Indicators. Click on Map Energy Indicators in the upper left corner and select Energy Consumption. Click on North America, click on the United States, and record the statistics below. Click on Asia (including China), select China, and record the statistics below. Click on OECD Europe, select a country of your choice, and record the statistics below. Click on Africa, select Zimbabwe, and record the statistics below: Country Population (million) International Energy Indicators GDP 1 (billion 2000 U.S. $) Energy Production (Mtoe) 2 Electricity Consumption (TWh) 3 U.S , , , China 1, , , ,3272 OECD European Country: France , Zimbabwe GDP = Gross Domestic Product: Total market value of all goods and services produced within the country in a given time. GDP = consumption + gross investment + government spending + (exports-imports). 2 Million Tonnes of Oil Equivalent (Mtoe) is a unit of energy used for expressing the amount of energy released by burning one tonne of crude oil (see for more information). 3 Terawatt hour (TWh) is a unit of energy used for expressing the amount of produced energy, electricity, and heat. 1 TWh = 1 trillion (1012 watts) (see for more information). Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 1: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest 5

6 activity 1 TEACHER KEY: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest Exploration Guide (4 of 6) 4 Based on the data you ve recorded in the chart above, provide two reasons why you think the U.S. and China produce and consume much larger amounts of electricity. Example Answer: Both countries have large populations, both have the technology and resources to produce larger amounts of electricity, and both countries have the economic wealth that enable higher rates of consumption. V. What types of energy do we consume in the U.s.? Go to the U.S. Energy Information Administration Web site: renewable_energy.cfm Answer the following questions: (The data is updated yearly, so you will need to fill in the year for the data provided on the Web site). 1. In 2007 (year), how much energy did the U.S. consume? Quadrillion Btu In 2007 (year), what percentage of energy in the U.S. came from fossil fuels? 93% 3. In 2007 (year), what percentage of energy in the U.S. came from renewable sources? Give answer in Btu and as a percentage. 7% = 6.83 Quadrillion Btu 4. list the renewable energy sources that were consumed in 2006 and the percentage of total renewable energy consumed: Source: Solar Percentage: 1% Source: Hydroelectric Percentage: 36% Source: Geothermal Percentage: 5% Source: Biomass Percentage: 53% Source: Wind energy Percentage: 5% VI. Energy in Your State Go to the U.S. Energy Information Administration State Energy Profiles Web site: Select your state from the list, and select and record two interesting quick facts about energy in your state. State: Quick Fact 1: Quick Fact 2: Florida Example Answer: Florida s per capita residential electricity demand is among the highest in the country, due in part to high air-conditioning use during hot summer months and the widespread use of electricity for home heating during winter months. Example Answer: Florida is a leading producer of oranges and researchers are attempting to derive ethanol from citrus peel waste. 6 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 1: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest

7 TEACHER KEY: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest Exploration Guide (5 of 6) activity 1 VII. Power Profiler: How clean is the electricity I use? Go to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Clean Energy Web site: cleanenergy/energy-and-you/how-clean.html 4 Enter your five-digit zip code in the box. 4 Select the utility company that provides your electricity (this can be found on a copy of your home electric bill). Click Next. 4 Review Graph 1: What is my fuel mix? 4 Fill in the following chart: Fuel Mix Coal Gas Oil Nuclear Hydro Non-Hydro Renewables Your region s fuel mix (%) Answers will vary based on zip code. National fuel mix (%) Next, click on the button Buy Green Power under How Can I Make a Difference and select your state. List a utility or program that utilizes green power products and the type of product(s) used. Sample Answers: State: Florida Utility Name: Gainesville Regional Utilities Program Name: GRUgreen Energy Type: Landfill gas, wind, PV VIII. Future Energy Consumption Trends in the U.S. Go to the U.S. Energy Information Administration/Annual Energy Review Web site: gov/emeu/aer/ Click on Consumption by Source. Review Figure 6. What are the projected trends for energy consumption in the U.S. to the year 2030? The amount of energy consumed from natural gas, hydroelectric, and nuclear sources will stay about the same as current trends. We will generate more power from liquid fuels, coal, and non hydroelectric renewable energy in 2030 than we do now. Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 1: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest 7

8 activity 1 TEACHER KEY: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest Exploration Guide (6 of 6) Conclusion Energy demands are growing, placing an increasing strain on global energy resources. In the U.S., the current energy systems rely heavily on nonrenewable resources. The challenges associated with using these resources and their projected availability put their future use in question. Increasing the amount of energy produced from renewable resources will help expand our energy options. In addition, conserving energy through new technologies and changes in behavior are important steps for creating a more sustainable energy future. Now that you have learned about various renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, as well as energy consumption in the U.S., you can take part in a class discussion prompted by the discussion questions. 1 What agencies or organizations sponsored the Web sites you collected information from and what might their bias be? Answers will vary. If a governmental entity is sponsoring a Web site, the information presented could be biased toward current policies. If an organization sponsors the Web site, the bias may be toward presenting information that supports the overall mission or philosophy of the organization. 2 Do you think the information presented on the Web sites is balanced? Stress to students the importance of seeking information from multiple sources in order to get a balanced view of the issue at hand. 3 What makes some energy sources renewable and others nonrenewable? Answers may include concepts such as the following: Renewable energy sources, if produced and managed sustainably, can be replenished over a short period of time and cannot be depleted. Nonrenewable energy sources (fossil fuels) take millions of years to form and can be depleted. 4 What are the advantages of using renewable energy sources? Answers may include the following: Renewable energy sources have less negative environmental impacts on air and water quality, can be domestically produced and obtained, and can provide jobs and increase monetary flow for the local and national economy. 5 Do you think the U.S. has an obligation to reduce its use of nonrenewable energy sources? Why? Answers will vary. Allow students to discuss differences in opinion, but the following points are important: The U.S. consumes a disproportionate amount of energy and, thus, emits disproportionately large amounts of greenhouse gases. This means the U.S. is a major contributor to increasing the impacts of global warming. The U.S. is also a major world power and a wealthy country possessing the science, manpower, research, and resources necessary to increase its use of renewable energy sources. 6 What future energy trends do you think are likely for the U.S.? Answers may include concepts such as the following: Energy trends in the U.S. will depend on the national policies enacted and the ways in which these policies will support or retard efforts to increase the utilization of renewable energy technologies. If policies are put into place that provide incentives for increased utilization of renewable energy, renewable energy sources will begin to contribute a larger portion of energy generation and consumption. Fossil fuels will also continue to contribute a large amount to energy generation and consumption, as these technologies are already in place and coal continues to be readily available in the U.S. 7 8 Discussion Questions What can you, as a citizen and energy consumer, do to have a positive influence on the future of energy in the U.S.? Answers may include the following: Support policies and actions that call for increasing overall utilization of renewable energy sources. Make efforts to be a more responsible energy consumer by improving home energy efficiency, driving less or purchasing a more energy efficient vehicle. Educate others about the importance of conserving energy. Imagine the future what do you think needs to be done now to help create a sustainable energy future? Answers will vary. Encourage students to think creatively and big! 8 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 1: Energy in the U.S. Web-quest

9 TEACHER KEY: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest Exploration Guide (1 of 6) activity 2 NAME date period Note to teachers: Many of the questions have multiple correct answers, and many answers will vary. The following teacher key provides sample answers to aid you in assessing student responses. Carbon sinks, sources, and sequestration, greenhouse gas emissions, and climate change: what does this all mean, and how in the world are you part of the carbon cycle? This Web-quest Exploration Guide will direct you to numerous online resources related to the carbon cycle. Follow the instructions and complete the worksheet to turn in to your teacher. I. The Global Carbon Cycle Go to the Pearson/Prentice Hall Biological Science Web site: biosci_1/0,6452, ,00.html 4 You may need to download a plug-in to view the video. Follow instructions to download the plug-in, and continue with the following steps. 4 Click on Natural Production. 4 Put your headphones on or mute the sound. 4 Maximize the page and watch the video depiction of the carbon cycle. 4 Describe two processes of the carbon cycle: Answers may include two processes from the following list: CO diffuses into and out of the ocean depending on the concentration gradient between 2 the ocean and the atmosphere. During photosynthesis, plants and bacteria absorb CO from the atmosphere and convert it 2 into sugars. CO is released from biota to the atmosphere during cellular respiration. 2 When plants die, carbon becomes part of the soil and provides energy to decomposers. Decomposers in the soil also respire CO into the atmosphere. 2 Rivers transport CO from the land to the ocean, linking terrestrial and marine carbon cycles. 2 4 Close the video window. 4 Click on Human Activities on the original Web page. 4 Watch the video and answer the following questions: 1. What are two most significant ways that humans increase the amount of carbon in the atmosphere? Deforestation and burning fossil fuels for electricity and to fuel automobiles. Since 1950 what has happened to atmospheric CO 2 concentrations recorded at a laboratory at Mona Loa? Atmospheric CO 2 concentrations have steadily increased because of increasing rates of global deforestation and increasing rates of consumption of fossil fuels. Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 2: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest 9

10 activity 2 TEACHER KEY: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest Exploration Guide (2 of 6) II. The Greenhouse Effect Go to the National Geographic Video Web site: environment/global-warming/gw-overview-interactive.html 4 Go through the animated depiction of the greenhouse effect (start and continue through each section by clicking on the green buttons). 4 Answer the following questions: 1. What happens when the sun s radiation reaches Earth s atmosphere? Some radiation is reflected back into space and some of it passes through the atmosphere and is absorbed by the Earth, causing the surface of the Earth to warm. How does Earth stay warm enough to sustain life? Heat from Earth radiates out and is absorbed by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This process helps keep Earth s heat from dispersing into space, keeping it warm enough to sustain life. 3. How do human activities intensify the warming effect? Human activities, especially burning fossil fuels, increase the intensity of the greenhouse gas warming effect by releasing additional greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. 4. Fill in the following chart about the major greenhouse gases (GHG) (Hint: click on the GHG inside the pie chart to retrieve more information on each GHG). GHG Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) % Contribution to increase in GHG emissions since 1700 Source(s) 53% Cars, factories, deforestation Nitrous Oxide (N 2 O) 12% Cars, factories Methane (CH 4 ) 17% Livestock, factories, rice paddies, waste dumps Other 18% Air conditioning, aluminum smelting (perfluorocarbons), aerosol sprays (hyrochlorofluorocarbons) III. Greenhouse Gas Maps Go to the Purdue University Newsroom Web site: 4 Type Vulcan in the Search Purdue News box. 4 Click on Revolutionary CO 2 maps zoom in on greenhouse gas sources in the search results. 10 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 2: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest

11 TEACHER KEY: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest Exploration Guide (3 of 6) activity 2 4 Answer the following questions: 1. What do the Vulcan maps depict? The Vulcan maps depict U.S. CO 2 emissions from fossil fuels on an hourly basis at 100 times more detail than was previously available. The Vulcan maps are more accurate than previous emission maps because the images show actual emissions based on air pollution data rather than population numbers. What percentage of global CO 2 emissions does the U.S. account for? 25% Click on Download image under the map of Where CO 2 is being emitted (near the top of the article). 4 Answer the following questions: 1. Based on this image, what regions of the United States emit the greatest amounts of CO 2? Answers may include these areas: Southeastern U.S., Northeastern U.S., Great Lakes region, West Coast. Why do you think these areas emit such large amounts of CO 2? Answers will vary but should refer to these areas being more densely populated, requiring more fossil fuels be burned to supply larger amounts of electricity and more fuel to power automobiles. IV. International CO 2 Emissions Go to the International Energy Agency Dynamic Maps Web site: 4Click on Go to the Map under Map Energy Indicators. 4Click on Map Energy Indicators in the upper left corner and select CO 2 Emissions. Click on North America, click on the United States, and record CO 2 emissions in the table below. Click on Asia (including China), select China, and record CO 2 emissions in the table below. Click on OECD Europe, select a country of your choice, and record CO 2 emissions in the table below. 4Click on Africa, select Zimbabwe, and record CO 2 emissions in the table below. Country CO 2 emissions (Mt 1 of CO 2 ) U.S. 5, China 5, European Country: Germany Zimbabwe Mt = Million tonnes (1 million tonnes = 05 billion pounds) Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 2: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest 11

12 activity 2 TEACHER KEY: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest Exploration Guide (4 of 6) 4Answer the following questions: 1. how do CO 2 emissions of the U.S. and China compare with the European country and Zimbabwe? The U.S. and China emit exponentially larger amounts of CO 2 than the European Country and Zimbabwe. What might be some similarities and differences that could account for the differences in CO 2 emissions of these four countries? Answers will vary but may include the following: The U.S. and China have larger populations than the European country and Zimbabwe. The U.S. is a developed, industrialized nation and China is rapidly developing and increasing its industrial infrastructure. V. What are the utility emissions in my area? Go to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Clean Energy Web site: cleanenergy/energy-and-you/how-clean.html 4Enter your five-digit zip code in the box. 4Select the utility company that provides your electricity. 4Review Graph 1: What is my fuel mix? Fill in the following chart: GHG Nitrogen Oxide Sulfur Dioxide Carbon Dioxide Your region s utility emissions rate (lbs/mwh) National average emissions rate (lbs/mwh) Methane (CH 4 ) Answers will vary depending on zip code. Answers can be checked by entering student zip code. VI. Fuel Economy Go to the U.S. Department of Energy Fuel Economy Web site: shtml 4List four reasons why fuel economy is important: 1. Saves money Strengthens national energy security 3. Protects the environment 4. Conserves resources 4Click on Find and Compare Cars at the top of the page. 4Select the Model Year of your personal car or your family car. 4Select the Make of your personal car or your family car. 12 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 2: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest

13 TEACHER KEY: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest Exploration Guide (5 of 6) activity 2 4Select the Model of your personal car or your family car. Find the model from the list that matches the engine components in your personal car or family s car (for example 4, 6, or 8 cylinder engine, automatic or manual transmission, etc.). Click Compare and fill in the table below with the information provided about your personal car or your family s car. Year Make Model City MPG Hwy MPG Annual fuel cost ($) Annual petroleum consumption (barrels/year) Carbon footprint (tons CO 2 emitted/year) Answers will vary depending on information entered. VII. Global Warming Effects Go to Ben and Jerry s Lick Global Warming Web site at: Click on two of the icons to choose a category and then click on a dot on the map to learn more about a specific effect of global warming. Record the information below: Answers will vary. Example answers: Category 1: Plants and animals Location: Costa Rica Effect: 20 different frog and toad species are disappearing Category 2: Glaciers and Arctic Regions Location: Glacier National Park, Montana Effect: All glaciers in park will disappear by 2070 if retreat continues at current rate VIII. What Can I do? Go to the Union of Concerned Scientists Web site: you_can_do/ Read What You Can Do about Global Warming. Record five things that you or your family can do: Answers will vary. Examples: 1. Ask local utility company to perform energy audit on your home. Join a carpool. 3. Choose a fuel efficient car. 4. Develop a plan to reduce electricity use around the house. 5. Contact your congressional representative and senators to encourage them to support actions to address the root causes of global warming. Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 2: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest 13

14 activity 2 TEACHER KEY: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest Exploration Guide (6 of 6) Conclusion Carbon cycles continuously through all plants, animals, soils, oceans, and the atmosphere. Carbon is the building block of life and is a major part of the makeup and function of all living organisms. Humans get carbon from food. Plants absorb carbon from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, and plants and animals store carbon as they grow and release carbon as they decompose. Some human actions, particularly burning fossil fuels to generate energy, cause carbon dioxide to be released into the atmosphere. Not all of these emissions can be absorbed into the carbon cycle by living organisms. Now that you ve learned about the carbon cycle and greenhouse emissions, review the following questions and be prepared to discuss your answers and thoughts with the rest of the class. Discussion Questions 1 What agencies or organizations sponsored the Web sites you collected information from and what might their bias be? Answers will vary. If a governmental entity is sponsoring a Web site, the information presented could be biased toward current policies or if an organization sponsors the Web site the bias may be toward presenting information that supports the overall mission or philosophy of the organization. 2 Is the information presented on the Web sites balanced? Stress to students the importance of seeking information from multiple sources in order to get a balanced view of the issue at hand. 3 What are some of the reasons there is more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere now than ever before? Advancing technologies have enabled us to extract and burn larger amounts of fossil fuels the combustion of fossil fuels is one of the major contributors to carbon dioxide emissions that increase the greenhouse effect. In addition, the global population has grown exponentially since the Industrial Revolution. 4 Why do you think the U.S. emits large amounts of CO 2 and other greenhouse gases? Answers may include: The U.S. has a large population and is an industrialized nation. Citizens of the U.S. are accustomed to consuming energy at high rates. Ask students to think creatively about how individual actions, as well as governmental actions and industrial actions contribute to overall CO 2 emissions. 5 What can individuals and families do to reduce carbon emissions? Answers may include: reduce how much I drive by riding a bike, taking the bus, or carpooling, make my home more energy efficient, reduce energy use in my home, purchase local produce, etc. 6 What can industries, communities, and federal governments do to reduce carbon emissions? Answers may include: use renewable energy resources, create policies and incentives to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency, create policies that regulate emissions of industries, promote energy conservation, support research to improve energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies, etc. 14 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 2: Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Web-quest

15 TEACHER KEY: Biomass Basics Web-quest Exploration Guide (1 of 7) activity 3 NAME date period Note to teachers: Many of the questions have multiple correct answers, and many answers will vary. The following teacher key provides sample answers to aid you in assessing student responses. Energy demand is growing in the United States and around the world. At the same time, there is increasing public and political concern about the future of energy resources and the impact of energy generation and consumption on the environment. With energy demand increasing, it is important for us to know where our energy comes from, how much we consume, and how we can contribute to energy conservation and a clean energy future. This Web-quest Exploration Guide will direct you to several online resources related to energy. Follow the instructions and complete the worksheet to turn in to your teacher. I. Biomass Energy Basics Go to the Renewable Energy Policy Projects Web site: Answer the following questions: 1. What is biomass? 3. Biomass is any organic matter, particularly cellulosic or lingo-cellulosic matter, which is available on a renewable or recurring basis, including trees, plants and associated residues; plant fiber; animal wastes; industrial waste; and the paper component of municipal solid waste. how is biomass currently being used as a renewable energy resource in different regions of the world? Residues from mill operations are the largest source of biomass for power plants and combined-heatand-power projects in the United States. Agricultural residues such as orchard pruning and nut hulls as well as forest residues are also important contributors to power plants in combined heat and power (CHP) operations, particularly in California. In Europe, urban wood waste is an important source of bioenergy. Finally, in developing nations, timber cut for heating and cooking is a major source of biomass. Why is biomass considered a renewable resource? It is a resource that can be replaced fairly quickly without permanently depleting the Earth s natural resources. Next, scroll to the top of the Web page and click on Answer the following questions: 1. What are the domestically available biomass resources? Types of Biomass. Pulp and paper operation residues, agricultural and forestry wastes, urban wood wastes, municipal solid wastes and landfill gas, animal wastes, and energy crops. Briefly describe and provide examples of the five biomass resources listed: 1. Pulp and paper operation residues, which includes leftover pulp from making paper and wood waste like sawdust from processing. It is often used by paper mills to generate electricity. Animal waste, such as cattle, chicken and pig manure, can be converted to gas or burned directly for heat and power generation. 3. Municipal solid waste that commonly includes organic plant matter, cardboard, and yard waste can be used to create bioenergy. 4. Urban wood waste is produced from construction that pallets, lumber, and tree trimmings which can be used as fuel for bioenergy. 5. Energy crops that are bioengineered to be fast-growing plants, trees or other herbaceous biomass can be harvested specifically for energy production use. Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 3: Biomass Basics Web-quest 15

16 activity 3 TEACHER KEY: Biomass Basics Web-quest Exploration Guide (2 of 7) Next, go to the Union of Concerned Scientists Clean Energy Web site: Click on Clean Energy 101. Click on How Biomass Energy Works. Click on Converting Biomass to Energy and answer the following questions: 1. According to the Web site, how is most biomass converted to energy? Today, most biomass is burned to create heat. This heat can be used directly for heating, cooking, industrial processes, or to produce electricity. What are the disadvantages of this process? A lot of energy is wasted and because the biomass is combusted, it releases some ash, particulates, and greenhouse gases if emissions are not regulated or controlled. 3. What is co-firing? Co-firing is a process whereby biomass is burned mixed and burned with coal in power plants. This can lower costs and reduce emissions and is one of the more economically viable ways to produce biomass power today. 4. Describe the following non-combustion technologies used to convert biomass into energy: Thermochemical: Biochemical: Chemical: Biomass materials are heated, but not burned, to break down the materials into gases, liquids, and solids. These products can be refined into fuels such as methane and alcohol. Gasifiers capture methane released from biomass materials and burn this methane in gas turbines to produce electricity. In addition, these fuels can be processed through fuel cells which convert the hydrogen-rich fuels into electricity and water. Fermentation uses bacteria, yeasts, and enzymes to break down carbohydrates found in biomass materials. This changes biomass liquids into alcohol, which is a combustible fuel. This process is also used to convert corn grain into alcohol or ethanol, which is mixed with gasoline to fuel vehicles. In addition, when bacteria breaks down biomass materials, methane and carbon dioxide are produced. The methane can be captured (i.e., landfill gas) to be burned for heat and power. Oils from biomass, such as soybean or canola, can be converted through chemical processes into liquid fuels similar to diesel fuels and also into gasoline additives. 16 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 3: Biomass Basics Web-quest

17 TEACHER KEY: Biomass Basics Web-quest Exploration Guide (3 of 7) activity 3 II. Benefits and Barriers of Bioenergy Go to the Energy Matters Web site: Click on Biomass on the left-hand side of the screen, then click on Advantages and Disadvantages. According to the Web site, what are some of the advantages to biomass energy? Answers may include: Biomass is theoretically an inexhaustible fuel source When direct combustion of plant mass is not used to generate energy (i.e. fermentation, pyrolysis, etc. are used instead), there is minimal environmental impact (little emissions, particulates, etc.) Fuels produced by biomass are efficient and clean-burning Biomass is an energy source available throughout the world Do you agree or disagree with the advantages listed? Explain your answer. Answers will vary based on student s position. Check for justification to support student s reasoning. According to the Web site, what are some of the disadvantages to biomass energy? Answers may include the following: Using biomass for energy could contribute a great deal to global warming and particulate pollution if directly burned. Biomass is an expensive energy source, both in terms of producing the biomass and converting it to alcohols/fuels. On a small scale there is most likely a net loss of energy a significant amount of energy must be put in to grow the plant mass. Do you agree or disagree with the disadvantages listed? Explain your answer. Answers will vary based on student s position. Check for justification to support student s reasoning. III. What are Biofuels? Go to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Web site: re_biomass.html Click on Biofuels in the menu on the left side of the webpage. Answer the following questions: 1. What is a biofuel? Biofuels are biomass materials converted into liquid fuels to help meet transportation fuel needs. Biofuels include ethanol and biodiesel. Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 3: Biomass Basics Web-quest 17

18 activity 3 TEACHER KEY: Biomass Basics Web-quest Exploration Guide (4 of 7) Briefly describe the types of biofuels discussed on this Web page: Ethanol: Ethanol is alcohol made by fermenting biomass materials. Today, most ethanol is made from starches and sugars, but research is being done make it from cellulose and hemicelluloses from plant matter. Ethanol is mostly used as a blending agent with gasoline to reduce emissions from the combustion of transportation fuels. Biodiesel: Biodiesel is made through combining methanol with vegetable oil, animal fat, or recycled cooking grease. It can be used to an additive or on its own as a renewable, alternative fuel for diesel engines. IV. Global Bioenergy Go to the Food and Agricultural Organization Bioenergy (FAO) Web site: Click on Areas of Work on the left side of the page. Answer the following questions: 1. How and for what purposes is over 85% of the world s biomass energy consumed? It is consumed as solid fuels that are used for cooking, heating, and lighting. What percentage do biofuels contribute to today s road transport fuels? Less than 2% Next, click on FAO Home on the menu. Click on Forestry under Core activities. Click on Facts and figures under the Databases, information, and resources menu and click on Bioenergy from the left menu to answer these questions: 1. What countries have more than half of the world s woody biomass, and what total percentage do they have? Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, United States of America, and Canada have a total of 56%. What percentage of worldwide energy consumed comes from biomass? Up to what percentage in developing countries? 15% worldwide and up to 90% in some developing countries. 3. Why do you think developing countries use more biomass for energy? Example answer: It is a readily, locally available source of energy that is also cheap. In some developing countries, biomass may be the only source of energy available because they may not have electricity or the resources, technology, or funding to produce other energy sources. 18 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 3: Biomass Basics Web-quest

19 TEACHER KEY: Biomass Basics Web-quest Exploration Guide (5 of 7) activity 3 IV. U.S. Biomass Resources Go to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory Biomass Maps Web site: Click on Total Biomass Resources in the United States map. Answer the following questions: 1. What feedstock categories for this map include? Agriculture residues, wood residues, municipal discards, and dedicated energy crops. What regions of the U.S. have the greatest availability (> 500,000 tonnes/year) of biomass resources? Answers will vary but may include: South Florida, Texas, northwest coast, Maine, the Midwest. V. Biomass in Your State Go to the U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, State Assessment for Biomass Resources Web site: Read about the tool and select your state. Answer the following questions: 1. What portion of the state has the most forestry and primary mill residues available? Answers will vary. For Florida, answer is north and north central Florida. What portion of the state has the most biomass crops and crop residue? Answers will vary. For Florida, answer is south Florida. 3. According to the map, what type and total quantity (thousand tonnes/year) of biomass are available in your county? Answers will vary. VI. The Role of Biomass in U.S. Energy Supply Go to the U.S. Energy Information Administration Energy in Brief Web site: energy_in_brief/renewable_energy.cfm Answer the following questions (you will need to fill in the year for the data provided on the Web site): Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 3: Biomass Basics Web-quest 19

20 activity 3 TEACHER KEY: Biomass Basics Web-quest Exploration Guide (6 of 7) 1. In 2007 (year), what was the largest source of renewable energy? Biomass What percentage of renewable energy did this source supply? 53% Scroll down to the bottom of the page and under Learn More click on Renewable Energy from (year). Click on the PDF symbol for the graph titled: Renewable Energy Production and Consumption by Primary Energy Source, (year). 4 Answer the following questions: 1. In 2007 (year), what percentage of renewable energy consumed was Wood 32 % Biofuels 15 % Waste 6 % What sources are included in the biofuels and waste categories? Biofuels includes fuel ethanol and biodiesel consumption. Waste includes biogenic, landfill gas, sludge waste and agriculture by products. 3. What are the trends in wood, biofuels, and waste energy consumption between 1990 current graph year? Wood slightly decreased over this time period, biofuels increased after 2000, and waste energy increased until 2000 when it started to decrease. 4. What do you think might account for these trends? Answers will vary. Example answer: Waste may have decreased because biofuels increased. Biofuels may have increased because emphasis on national energy security. 20 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 3: Biomass Basics Web-quest

21 TEACHER KEY: Biomass Basics Web-quest Exploration Guide (7 of 7) activity 3 Discussion Questions 1 What agencies or organizations sponsored the Web sites you collected information from and what might their bias be? Answers will vary. If a governmental entity is sponsoring a Web site, the information presented could be biased toward current policies or if an organization sponsors the Web site the bias may be toward presenting information that supports the overall mission or philosophy of the organization. 2 Is the information presented on the Web sites balanced? If not, which ones do you think are biased and why? Stress to students the importance of seeking information from multiple sources in order to get a balanced view of the issue at hand. 3 Why is biomass an important energy resource in the U.S.? Biomass, along with other renewable energy sources, can help to meet growing energy demands without increasing overall greenhouse gas emissions or contributing to global climate change. Biomass is a domestically available resource, so it can contribute to energy security and generate income flow and jobs for U.S. communities. 4 Under what circumstances could biomass energy sources be considered nonrenewable? If biomass materials are harvested or processed at a rate that is faster than they can be re-grown or replenished, there is a risk of depleting the resource, making it nonrenewable. 5 Imagine you re in charge of deciding how every acre of forest and farm land will be used in the southeast U.S. for the next 100 years. Prioritize the following uses (1 = most important, 7 = least important). If you can think of an important use that is not included in the list, add it. Answers will vary. Use this question to create a discussion or debate. Growing crops for people to eat Land for cattle grazing Land for growing crops to convert to transportation fuels Forests to produce wood products Forests to produce wood for energy Forests for recreation and aesthetics Forests for wildlife habitat Conclusion Energy demands and costs are increasing in the United States and internationally. Total primary energy consumption in the U.S. is projected to increase by 19 percent, and international energy consumption is projected to increase by 57 percent between 2005 and 2030 (U.S. EIA, 2008a). Increasing demands on energy resources signify a need to utilize more alternative energy sources. Currently, the U.S. and other countries are exploring renewable, domestically available energy sources. To many people, the wind and the sun are the most familiar renewable energy resources. But, as you have learned, biomass represents another renewable energy source that may help meet growing energy demands. Because it is a locally produced and renewable resource, biomass plays an important role in initiatives to increase energy independence. At the same time, as with any energy source, there are many barriers and potential disadvantages to widespread utilization of biomass that must be considered. Go through the following discussion questions regarding the information you gathered in this Web-quest and be prepared to share your thoughts with the class. Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 3: Biomass Basics Web-quest 21

22 activity 4 TEACHER KEY: The World s Forests Web-quest Exploration Guide (1 of 5) NAME date period Note to teachers: Many of the questions have multiple correct answers, and many answers will vary. The following teacher key provides sample answers to aid you in assessing student responses. Forests play a key role in maintaining the health of the Earth, and they also provide us with many important services and products. This Web-quest Exploration Guide leads you to various Web sites to learn about the world s forests. Get ready to learn more about forests, why they are important, how human activities affect them, and what we can do to protect them! Follow the instructions and complete the worksheet to turn in to your teacher. I. What Do You Know About Forests? Go to The World Bank you think! But do you know? Web site: Put your headphones on and click Start Slideshow. Answer the following questions: 1. List at least three reasons why global forests are important. Answers will vary and may include the following: people rely on forests to provide wood, food, freshwater, and shelter; people depend on forests to provide them with income from harvesting and selling forest products; forests are important ecosystems and are home to 80% of the world s terrestrial plants and animals; forests store carbon dioxide. Why are trees considered a renewable resource? Trees can replace themselves, or regrow, when harvested in a sustainable manner. 3. What are some impacts of forest loss? Drought, soil erosion, flooding, intensification of global warming effects. II. Deforestation Go to the National Geographic Eye in the Sky Web site: deforestation.html Scroll through the pages by clicking on The Effect, The Phenomena, and The Science and answer the following questions: 1. According to the Web site, what are the major causes of global forest loss? Logging, wildfires, and land clearing for agriculture or grazing. According to the World Resources Institute, what percentage of the Earth s natural forests have already been destroyed? 80% 3. What are some of the consequences of deforestation? Answers will vary and can include the following: loss of habitat for plants and animals; drought; erosion; desertification; increasing amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere intensifying the global warming effect; burning trees for deforestation releases additional carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. 22 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 4: The World s Forests

23 TEACHER KEY: The World s Forests Web-quest Exploration Guide (2 of 5) activity 4 4. What are some solutions and actions to reduce global deforestation rates? Answers will vary and may include the following: political activism and green consumerism purchasing products that are recycled and boycotting products that originated on land that was deforested in order to produce the product; heightening public awareness so that people have the knowledge and understanding needed to take individual action. III. Global Forest Cover Data Go to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Web site: Answer the following questions: 1. What is the global forest area in acres? (Hint: 1 hectare = 47 acres) 47 acres x 4 billion hectacres = 9.88 billion acres Which countries have more than half of the world s forest area? Russia, Brazil, Canada, the U.S., and China In what areas of the world do countries have less than 10% of their total land area in forests? North Africa, West Asia How many countries have more than 50% of their total land area forested? 45 IV. Forest Area Change Go to the Global Forest Watch Web site: Click on FAQs on the left side of the screen. Using your mouse, run your cursor across the words Original forest extent, Current forest cover, and Remaining frontier forest and watch how the world map changes. Answer the following questions: 1. What is a frontier forest? A frontier forest is a large, intact natural forest ecosystem that is undisturbed and large enough to maintain all of its biodiversity. Which regions of the world contain most of the remaining frontier forests? Northern North America, Northern Asia, Northern South America Use the questions and answers on the webpage to find the following information: 1. Using soccer fields for scale, how much of the world s forests are lost each minute, based on FAO s global annual estimates? soccer fields per minute. Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 4: The World s Forests 23

24 activity 4 TEACHER KEY: The World s Forests Web-quest Exploration Guide (3 of 5) What types of human activities threaten frontier forests? Subsistence farming and large-scale ranching or farming operations. Go to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Web site: forestry/30515/en/ Read the facts and figures about deforestation and net forest area change. Answer the following questions: 1. How many acres of the world s forests are lost to deforestation each year (Hint 1 hectare = 47 acres)? 47 acres x 13 million hectares = 35 million hectares Is this rate increasing or slowing? Why? Slowing because of forest restoration projects, specifically tree planting and natural expansion of existing forests. V. United States Forest Facts Go to Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Web site: forestry/ Click on the Countries on the left menu and select the United States from the drop down menu. Click on Summary: forests and the forestry sector from the left menu. Answer the following questions: 1. What percentage of the world s forest area exists in the United States? 6% How many hectares of forest does the U.S. have? How does this compare to other nations? 226 million hectares. The U.S. has the fourth largest amount of forest. 3. What country is the largest consumer and producer of forest products? The United States VI. Forest Products and Services Go to the Idaho Forest Products Commission Web site: Answer the following questions: 1. What are some of the services that trees provide us? Beauty, shade, clean air, oxygen, forest products (such as lumber, paper, etc.). 24 Should We Use Wood for Energy? Section 1 Activity 4: The World s Forests