(430d) Large-Scale Decarbonization through Synergetic Utilization of Forest Biomass Resources

Forest biomass is one of the most abundant biomass resources used by modern industries. Forests also offer many nature-based carbon dioxide removal (CDR) solutions, such as afforestation/reforestation and converting woody biomass to biochar or other long-lived wood products. Previous studies have used life cycle assessment (LCA) to quantify the process-level decarbonization potential of individual forest biomass utilization pathways. However, there is increasing interest in understanding the large-scale, synergetic effects of those nature-based solutions related to forest systems. Furthermore, LCA often does not account for the variability in environmental conditions and forest management approaches over time and space, affecting the design and operability of engineering systems utilizing biomass as feedstock. A comprehensive understanding of the carbon dynamics associated with the interlinked forest-industrial systems across land and product life cycles at various scales is essential for system-level optimization to combat climate change.

This study aims to address the methodological and knowledge gaps by developing a multi-scale life cycle modeling framework that merges machine-learning-assisted, process-based LCA with dynamic forest ecosystem modeling. This approach facilitates the analysis of carbon fluxes in forests and associated wood product lifecycles with spatial and temporal dynamics. This framework is demonstrated by a case study in the southeastern United States. Our analysis explores how diverse engineering wood product selections, forest management practices, temporal considerations, and geographical variability influence the overall carbon balances of the system. Our results suggest that the effectiveness of combined CDR strategies is significantly influenced by time and location. This presentation will further delve into the details of the conditions where integrating various forest-based CDR methods can effectively mitigate greenhouse gas emissions while advancing a resilient bioeconomy. Finally, based on the results, the presentation will discuss policy implications and regional CDR opportunities.