In this Sustainable Energy Seminar, Dr. Tyler Lark, Lead Scientist at the Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment (SAGE), will discuss the connections between biofuels, land use change, and sustainability.
Abstract: Bioenergy is an essential component of most proposed pathways to reduce anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and limit global warming to 1.5 or 2 °C by middle to late century. Liquid biofuels may contribute to bioenergy’s share of climate mitigation by displacing petroleum-based fuels with those generated from modern-day plants. The GHG benefits of such substitution, however, are dependent on several factors including the degree to which biofuel production directly and indirectly alters patterns of land use and management. In this discussion, we will explore the relationship between biofuels and land use changes (LUCs) in the United States to understand the opportunities provided by this renewable energy source, reflect on the challenges that need to be addressed along the pathway to decarbonization, and glean insights into broader considerations for sustainable energy development.
This event is offered both in-person at the Wisconsin Energy Institute and online through Zoom Webinar.