The California Redwood Association claims that “Across the board, wood outperforms plastics, steel and concrete. Using concrete instead of wood, for example, can generate 80 percent more greenhouse gases and require about 40 percent more energy. With LCA, science clearly shows that using wood can save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
Details of the study can be found HERE
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ARLINGTON, VA, May 25, 2010 (News Release) – The Aluminum Association posted today a comprehensive and transparent life-cycle analyses (LCA) of aluminum cans.
Major findings include:
“The data shows that we are using significantly less material and less energy to produce same-size beverage cans as compared with 17 years ago,” said Steve Larkin, president of the Aluminum Association. “The aluminum industry has made tremendous gains in sustainability. The aluminum can is more sustainable than ever.”
The study is publicly available at www.aluminum.org/lca.
Similar to P&G, IBM has also announced new management system requirements to advance sustainability across the company’s global network of suppliers. IBM’s “first-tier” suppliers – those firms with which IBM holds a direct commercial relationship – will now be required to establish and follow a management system to address their corporate and environmental responsibilities.
This is the latest move in IBM’s decades-long commitment to working with suppliers around corporate responsibility initiatives. The company runs one of the largest, most complex supply chains in the world, spanning 28,000 first-tier suppliers in 90 countries.
IBM’s suppliers are now required to:
In detail, IBM asks its suppliers to:
The orginal IBM Press release can be found HERE
IBM Global Procurement Requirements can be found HERE
Press Release: The Wildegg-Brugg power plant is the first run-of-river power plant in Switzerland to receive an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certified according to ISO 14025. The EPD is based on an environmental audit which identifies the full environmental impact of the power generation process for the entire lifecycle of the plant, including its construction and all the associated installed systems, the annual operations and its eventual dismantling.
The results of the environmental audit at the Wildegg-Brugg hydroelectric power plant were excellent. The plant produces greenhouse gas emissions of only 3.1g/CO2-equivalents per kWh, making it one of the most environmentally friendly energy systems yet. The average emissions value for the Swiss power mix is approximately 20g per kWh. This means that the Wildegg-Brugg power plant makes a significant contribution to climate friendly power production in Switzerland.
However, this energy system is not entirely CO2-free. Most CO2 emissions at the Wildegg-Brugg plant are the result of the construction process, especially the production of the cement used, but another factor was the transportation of materials by coal-fired steam engines. But the high initial input of materials and energy is paying dividends today. The Wildegg-Brugg hydroelectric power plant produces approximately 300 GWh of power annually, making it extremely efficient because most of the environmental impact factors measured per kWh are lower than for other power generation technologies.
The press release and original EPD can be found HERE
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized revisions to the National Renewable Fuel Standard program (commonly known as the RFS program). This rule makes changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard program as required by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA). The revised statutory requirements establish new specific annual volume standards for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel that must be used in transportation fuel. The revised statutory requirements also include new definitions and criteria for both renewable fuels and the feedstocks used to produce them, including new greenhouse gas emission (GHG) thresholds as determined by lifecycle analysis. The regulatory requirements for RFS will apply to domestic and foreign producers and importers of renewable fuel used in the U.S.
PRESS RELEASE KEY ISSUES (http://www.epa.gov/otaq/renewablefuels/420f10007.htm)
This final action lays the foundation for achieving significant reductions of greenhouse gas emissions from the use of renewable fuels, reductions of imported petroleum and further development and expansion of our nation’s renewable fuels sector.
This action is also setting the 2010 RFS volume standard at 12.95 billion gallons (bg). Further, for the first time, EPA is setting volume standards for specific categories of renewable fuels including cellulosic, biomass-based diesel, and total advanced renewable fuels. For 2010, the cellulosic standard is being set at 6.5 million gallons (mg); biomass based diesel standard is being set at 1.15 bg, (combining the 2009 and 2010 standards as proposed).
In order to qualify for these new volume categories, fuels must demonstrate that they meet certain minimum greenhouse gas reduction standards, based on a lifecycle assessment, in comparison to the petroleum fuels they displace.
For its final determinations, EPA used the best available models and has incorporated updated information based on:
For the fuel pathways modeled, the following meet or exceed the respective required minimum GHG reduction standards:
Fuels derived from cellulosic materials meet, and generally significantly exceed, the minimum GHG reduction standard.
COMPLIANCE BASED ON LCA
Compliance with each threshold requires a comprehensive evaluation of renewable fuels, as well as the baseline for gasoline and diesel, on the basis of their lifecycle emissions. As mandated by EISA, the greenhouse gas emissions assessments must evaluate the aggregate quantity of greenhouse gas emissions (including direct emissions and significant indirect emissions such as significant emissions from land use changes) related to the full lifecycle, including all stages of fuel and feedstock production, distribution and use by the ultimate consumer.
EPA’s lifecycle methodology required breaking new scientific ground and using analytical tools in new ways. Throughout the development of EPA’s lifecycle analysis, the Agency employed a collaborative, transparent, and science-based approach. EPA recognizes that as the state of scientific knowledge continues to evolve in this area, the lifecycle GHG assessments for a variety of fuel pathways are likely to be updated.
Therefore, while EPA is using its current lifecycle assessments to inform the regulatory determinations for fuel pathways in this final rule, as required by the statute, the Agency is also committing to further reassess these determinations and lifecycle estimates.
Based on the Agency’s current modeling of specific fuel pathways, which incorporated comments received through the third-party peer review process, and data and information from new studies and public comments, EPA has determined that:
In addition to finalizing a threshold compliance determination for those pathways shown above that were specifically modeled, the EPA’s technical judgment indicates certain other pathways are likely to be similar enough to modeled pathways that they are also assured these similar pathways qualify. Further, for other fuels, the EPA is establishing a process whereby a biofuel producer can petition the Agency to consider whether their product would be eligible for use in complying with an EISA standard. For additional information on the lifecycle GHG emissions methodology and results for renewable fuel pathways, and details on the petition process, please refer to the Lifecycle GHG Analysis Fact Sheet, EPA420-F-10-006 or the RFS2 preamble on the EPA website here: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/renewablefuels/index.htm
Press Release from BASF January, 28th, 2010: http://www.basf.com/group/pressrelease/P-10-137
Eco-efficiency analysis confirms that formic acid salts are cost efficient and easy on the environment
Using cesium and potassium formates in completion fluids that stabilize boreholes in gas production is more eco-efficient than the application of brines based on zinc bromide, calcium bromide and calcium chloride. This is the result of an eco-efficiency analysis performed by BASF. Formates are salts of formic acid, a BASF intermediate.
The scientific study compared which of the products is better suited from the economic and ecological point of view to be used in completion fluids for stabilizing boreholes. In a life-cycle assessment, formates outperformed the bromides named above as well as calcium chloride as a lower-cost, environmentally more benign alternative. Formates achieved superior results also with respect to waste disposal: while waste bromide brine needs to be disposed of at considerable cost, formate brines are biologically degradable, which allows on-site disposal.
Completion fluids are used in gas production after the initial drilling operation to stabilize the well. Pressure in the well may exceed 1,000 bar. Special-purpose liquids are used to balance this pressure to prevent uncontrolled blowout of water or gas and a breakdown of the well bore. To achieve this the fluid must be of exceptionally high density – water-soluble salts like potassium and cesium formates have this density.
BASF Eco-Efficiency analysis background:
The BASF eco-efficiency analysis is a strategic tool for examining the cost and environmental impact of products, processes and entire system solutions. This method allows BASF to optimize its product portfolio for the requirements of a development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Sustainable Development). To date, BASF experts have completed more than 400 eco-efficiency analyses, including third-party projects in which they shared BASF expertise with others. The eco-efficiency analysis developed by BASF and certified by German technical surveillance association TÜV seeks to compare products or processes that target identical customer benefits. This involves an overall study of alternative solutions. In a life-cycle assessment, the total cost and the ecological impact are determined, a special process is then applied to aggregate the findings and visualize them clearly. The eco-efficiency analysis as an overall process was certified in 2002 by “TÜV Rheinland,” the Rhineland technical surveillance association. The ecological assessment underlying the eco-efficiency analysis is based on DIN EN ISO 14040 and 14044.
Formic acid – an all-rounder
BASF’s customers use formic acid in a wide range of applications. The acid helps to keep certain feeds fresh and free of salmonellae, removes paints and rust from metallic surfaces and descales kettles and boilers. In breweries and wineries it disinfects kegs, casks and barrels; applied as an auxiliary in the pharmaceutical and crop protection industry it regulates pH values and acts as a dirt remover and disinfectant. Formic acid salts, the so-called formates, serve as high-class deicing agents and valuable auxiliaries in oil production.
Affliated Engineers, Inc., Seattle, Washington and Walnut Creek, California
Affiliated Engineers, Inc. (AEI) is currently seeking a Sustainable Systems Engineer for its Seattle, WA and Walnut Creek, CA offices. AEI is one of the nation’s leading MEP design firms. AEI provides engineering consulting in the areas of traditional MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) as well as IT, fire protection, architectural lighting and sustainable design. The bulk of its work tends to be focused on large and complex projects, both nationally and internationally. The demands of these projects present unique opportunities for innovative design and the potential to make large impacts on energy consumption and MEP design practice.
The roles of this individual are diverse, ranging from the design of complex building mechanical systems to the building simulation and detailed analyses necessary to evaluate innovative and forward thinking designs. The collaborative nature of the position provides an opportunity to develop the necessary engineering and analytical background essential to the design and understanding of high-performance building systems. Advanced understanding of major tenets of sustainable design including life cycle assessment, renewable and alternative energy strategies, daylighting, embodied energy, indoor environmental quality, material composition, pollution (air, water, ground), water efficiency, and urban planning. The engineer will also work to educate clients, architects and engineers on new technologies and innovative solutions.
Candidate should have a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in HVAC, Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Engineering or Energy Engineering with 4 years experience using building information modeling (BIM) or a Master Degree with 2 years experience. Professional registration or the ability to become register preferred.
The candidate will have strong knowledge of eQUEST; DOE-2; Transys; Computational Fluid Dynamics (Fluent Airpack); and/or Energy+. Candidate should be a creative thinker with effective communication and teamwork skills. The person would ideally beenvironmentally minded with an understanding of energy and climate change issues.
To apply for this position, visit the AEI website career webpage: http://www.aeieng.com/opportunities/
ExxonMobil Research and Engineering has an immediate opening for a Member of the Technical Staff in its Corporate Strategic Research laboratory located in Clinton, NJ.
Candidates are sought to fill a key position in the Corporate Strategic Research Laboratory of ExxonMobil Research and Engineering in the area of Environmental Science and Modeling. A strong background in environmental science, systems modeling, and computational science/engineering is essential. In addition, a background in life cycle assessment (LCA) tools/methodologies is preferred. The successful candidate will help develop and advance our internal capabilities in the areas of environmental impact modeling. They will develop metrics to characterize the environmental performance of products and processes via collaboration with the external community. They will also support internal and external research efforts to develop improved LCA methods that integrate advanced models/concepts such as multi-objective optimization, optimization under uncertainty, decision analysis, and cost-benefit analysis. Additionally, they will contribute to the design and execution of life cycle inventories and impact assessments for a range of products and processes across ExxonMobil’s chemical and petroleum business areas.
The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate strong scientific leadership within both the corporation and the external scientific community. Strong communication skills are essential, as collaboration with other science areas is critical for success. A PhD in engineering (chemical, environmental, mechanical), environmental science, physical chemistry, physics, or similar field is required. Candidates with all levels of experience will be considered.
ExxonMobil’s Corporate Strategic Research (CSR) laboratory is a dynamic and exciting place to work. CSR is located in scenic western New Jersey, about an hour west of New York City and 45 minutes northwest of Princeton. Within CSR, active research programs exist in all areas of the company’s business and which cut across the traditional fields of chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry, physics, geoscience, and mechanical engineering. Interdisciplinary research is the norm, and close ties are maintained with the academic and national laboratory communities through publication and presentation of results. Collaborations with the external scientific community are encouraged.
See job posting on Exxon Mobil website: HERE
When: June 29 to July 2, 2010
Where: Politecnico de Bari, Bari, Italy
Website: http://seep2010.poliba.it/default.htm
The scope of the SEEP2010 conference is broad within sustainable energy and environmental protection. The conference particularly welcomes papers related to industry-based projects. Papers dealing with one or more of the following topics belongings to three main areas will be considered for the conference:
— RENEWABLE ENERGY PRODUCTION & MANAGEMENT AREA –
– SUSTAINABILITY SCIENCE AREA –
– ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION & MANAGEMENT AREA –
The European Union Leonardo da Vinci Lifelong Learning Mobility Project “Examination of Life Cycle Assessment Method in the context of the Environmental Impacts of Construction Materials” is soliciting papers and posters for participation. The symposium is a semi-annual event to be held this year between the dates of 26-28 May 2010. The “International Sustainable Buildings Symposium – ISBS” will focus on future oriented previsions about sustainable buildings.
Formal Announcement is as follows:
Aim of the Symposium
In recent years, the environmental discourse has increasingly gained significance in every discipline formulating development theories, models, and policies, especially under the rubric of sustainable development. “Sustainability” is a key issue that aims the coexistence of the communities in future centuries. In that context, all of the activities to produce long term solutions for coexistence and qualified life of human, and the improvement of the environment without damaging the ecosystem balances is the goal of sustainable building design. Environment is the collection of physical, chemical, biological and social factors that affect the activity and movement of organic and inorganic elements with economical and humanity values. Building is a part of the environment as well, and during a building’s existence, it maintains its relation with the local and global environments. In this context, an environmental conscious sustainable building should secure the coexistence of the organic and inorganic groups making arrangements not to break the balance of the ecosystem, bring human health into safety, and provide economic use of resources.
The goal of sustainable building design is to provide appropriate environments for the users in terms of qualitative, quantitative, physical and psychological indicators. Sustainable building should be defined with the aspects of ecological, economical, social and cultural sustainability. In this context, ecological sustainability creates scenarios related to the conservation of resources and ecosystem, economical sustainability relating to usability of resources in long term and decreasing the usage costs, social and cultural sustainability relating to provision of human health and comfort, and conservation of social and cultural values. It is aimed to introduce and discuss future oriented previsions, to scope out, and to provide new expansions on the fields of “sustainable buildings and environment”, “sustainable planning”, “energy and environment”, “environmental pollution control and auditing” and “environmental policies and practices” in the symposium in which these scenarios will be evaluated.
Subjects of the Symposium
1- Sustainable Buildings and Environment
Sustainability – Building Interaction
Sustainable Building Technologies
Construction and Management of Sustainable Buildings
Sustainable Building Materials
Sustainable Design Approaches
2- Sustainable Planning
Sustainability – Urban / Rural Planning Interaction
Urbanization and Environmental Problems
Rehabilitation of Urban Areas
Urban Transformation
Cultural / Historical Heritage and Environment
Landscape Planning
3- Energy and Environment
Energy Efficient Building Design and Production
Microclimate Auditing
Building Performance Assessment
Renewable Energy Resources
Life Cycle Assessment
Environmental Product Declarations
Simulation Programs
4- Environmental Pollution Control and Auditing
Global Climate Change
Air / Water / Soil Pollution
Ecological Pollution
Conservation of Resources
Biological Diversity
Waste Management
5- Environmental Policies and Practices
Environmental Sciences and Technologies
Environmental Consciousness and Information Systems
Environment and Human Health
Act, Regulation, Strategy, Principle and Standards
Environmental Economy / Training / Management / Law
Local Authorities and Environment
Environmental Aspect in International Relations
Click on www.isbs.gazi.edu.tr for detailed information.
Click for poster and invitation cards of ISBS.