Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of what is known and not known about emissions from wood combustion, with a particular focus on the nonresidential scale. In addition, it reviews the state of the evidence on health effects associated with of exposure to emissions from wood combustion, information that is relevant to decisions about wood biomass applications at any scale. Finally, the chapter describes policy approaches available for protecting public health from pollution and concludes with solutions: recommendations for changes in technologies, policy and programs to better protect public health. While the discussion focuses on the Northeast region of the USA, it has broader implications, providing a framework for incorporating health in renewable energy decision-making across the country.
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Notes
- 1.
Samples in this study were taken after passing through emission controls.
- 2.
Unit size = 0.15–0.5 MWt heat capacity.
- 3.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s Area Source Boiler Rule standard for boilers between 2.9 and 8.8 MWt (heat input) is 30 g/GJ.
- 4.
P.M. 2.5 does include some HAPs. Many toxic chemicals, such as heavy metals, acids, etc. adsorb to the fine particles surface.
- 5.
Recent action by EPA has redefined facilities using construction and demolition debris as solid waste incinerators, suggesting that they will be subject to stricter emission limits. As of this writing, the rule is being “reconsidered.” (Burkhard 2012)
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Hoppin, P., Jacobs, M. (2013). Emissions and Health Effects of Wood Biomass Combustion. In: Jacobson, M., Ciolkosz, D. (eds) Wood-Based Energy in the Northern Forests. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-9478-2_11
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