EPA Backs Biomass As GHG Control But Faces New Scientific Test

摘要

EPA is proposing a series of steps to encourage use of biomass energy as a means of reducing greenhouse gases (GHGs), though the agency is advancing its policy measures before winning approval for a revised draft framework for estimating biomass GHG emissions from its science advisors, who strongly criticized an earlier draft methodology. EPA Nov. 19 issued a long-awaited policy memo that allows states to rely on biomass obtained from undefined "sustainable" practices to be used for compliance with its existing source performance standards (ESPS) proposal to cut carbon dioxide (CO2) from the power sector.See page 2 for details. "When considering state compliance plans, the Agency expects to recognize the biogenic CO2 emissions and climate policy benefits of waste-derived and certain forest-derived industrial byproduct feedstocks, based on the conclusions supported by a variety of technical studies, including the revised Framework," EPA's acting air chief Janet McCabe says in the Nov. 19 memo.