Biogenic Emissions

Biogenic emissions describe CO2 released by biological sources, such as plants, through combustion or decomposition. As the carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere was only recently sequestered, unlike fossil fuels, biogenic emissions are not considered to add to atmospheric emissions on a net basis but are instead considered part of the natural carbon cycle.

FAQs

What is the natural carbon cycle?

The natural carbon cycle describes the process by which organisms such as plants sequester and release carbon naturally as part of their lifecycle.

How does the natural carbon cycle work?

As a tree grows and photosynthesises, it absorbs or sequesters carbon, transforming CO2 in the atmosphere into organic matter for growth. This carbon is returned to the atmosphere as the tree dies and decomposes.

Are biogenic emissions a good thing?

Biogenic emissions are a natural process - they would occur in the absence of human intervention. The impact of biogenic emissions on global CO2 levels is zero on a net basis provided new trees are planted, and allowed to grow, so as to balance CO2 emissions released through the use of organic matter as fuel by humans.

What are non-biogenic emissions?

Non-biogenic emissions occur through the combustion of fossil fuels, where carbon that has been trapped under the earth’s surface for millions of years is released into the atmosphere. Without human intervention, non-biogenic emissions would not enter the atmosphere. Biogenic emissions add to atmospheric carbon on a net basis, altering the carbon balance.

How long do trees sequester carbon for?

Studies suggest a native broadleaf tree in the UK sequesters carbon for roughly the first 100 years of its life. After this, as the tree moves from its growth phases to maturity, respiration and photosynthesis balance out so that carbon is not absorbed on a net basis.

How are biogenic emissions accounted for under the GHG Protocol?

CO2 emissions from the combustion of biomass are reported separately from Scope 1 for informational purposes in an 'outside of scopes' memo, and not included in a business' total footprint.

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