Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Landfill Gas Energy Globe


Landfill Gas Energy

Can we turn garbage into gold? An enormous amount of garbage ends up in landfills, where it decomposes, producing harmful gas. Landfill gas is about 50% methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global climate change. Currently, landfills are the largest human-generated source of methane emissions in the United States.  Ironically, methane gas is also a reliable and renewable fuel source. Roughly 70%–90% of methane emitted from landfills can be captured and burned to produce electricity, preventing the release of this greenhouse gas. The Landfill Methane Outreach Program encourages the use of technologies to harness landfill gas for energy. Since the program began in 1994, methane reductions from landfills have been equivalent to the emissions of 15 million vehicles each year. Around 540 landfills turn their gas into energy—an estimated 600 more could do the same. Did you know that garbage can be a valuable source of energy?

Artist: Joi Leo-Wagenberg, "Mighty Methane”

P.S.  This is really an incredible concept.  Who wouldn't support this?  -Liam

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