Energy Efficiency & Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Opportunities
Fossil fuel combustion in the agricultural sector is a significant contributor of greenhouse gas emissions, which accelerate the impacts of human-induced climate change. Nationally, energy efficiency on farms has increased dramatically, but there are still additional cost-effective opportunities that will increase profitability and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Energy efficiency changes can be planned as farming operations change; equipment and building upgrades can be prioritized according to ease of implementation and potential financial assistance.
While there are regulations on GHG emissions from the electric sector, there are no regulations of GHG emissions from agriculture. This information sheet is intended to help educators and technicians assist farms in navigating voluntary methods for reducing GHG emissions from energy efficiency mechanisms. Potential on-farm strategies outlined in this factsheet include: performing an energy audit (either self-audit or professional audit), re-thinking farm operations, and changing to renewable energy sources.
For more information on this factsheet or series, contact Peter Woodbury (peterwoodbury@cornell.edu) or Jenifer Wightman (jenifer.wightman@cornell.edu).
Website: http://blogs.cornell.edu/woodbury/
Cost: Free
Time Investment: Not Applicable