Biological Processes for Mitigation of Greenhouse Gases

摘要

Biological processes driven by photosynthesis cycle through the atmosphere well over an order of magnitude more CO_2 than is currently emitted from the combustion of fossil fuels. Already human activities control and appropriate almost half the primary photosynthetic productivity of the planet. Better management of natural and man-made ecosystems affords many opportunities for mitigation of greenhouse gases, through sink enhancements, source reductions and substitution of fossil fuels with biofuels. Biofuels can be recovered from most organic wastes, from agricultural and forestry residues, and from biomass produced solely for energy use. However, the currently low costs of fossil fuels limits the markets for biofuels. Accounting for the greenhouse gas mitigation value of biofuels would significantly increase their contribution to world fuel supplies, estimated to be currently equivalent to about 15