An analytical modeling framework was developed for estimating current as well as potential carbon (C) emission reduction through utilization of available forest biomass. The net C balance under current biomass use and its contribution to atmospheric C reduction was assessed under different management options ranging from biomass co‐firing during power generation, extending the life of wood products, burying unused wood residues in landfills for long periods of time, and finally using integrating biomass co‐firing and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology. The study used forest biomass data in West Virginia and utilized C stock and C flow models over time to quantify the emission as well as sequestration of C. Results indicated that the current biomass use for energy production saves 0.27 million tC from entering into the atmosphere annually in WV and there is potential to achieve up to 1.57 million tC of annual emission savings through sustainable biomass production and utilization. Implementation of other options such as CCS and co‐firing would result in about 4% emission reduction from current C emission levels in the state. The modeling framework can be applied in any regions.

http://www.forestry.vt.edu/cofe/documents/2010/Sharma_Wang_COFE_2010.pdf