Introduction: Bio-energy generation using Willow crops from reclaimed open pit mine land in Alberta, Canada
Vast extensions of land have been disturbed by natural resource extraction in Alberta. Increasing environmental regulations, and a drop in fossil fuel demand, has led to the accelerated closure of mines and demand for urgent reclamation and restoration initiatives.
On the other hand, the departure of carbon-intensive industries represents new challenges for local communities looking for alternative sources of employment and income. The primary focus of this case study is to evaluate bio-energy generation using willow crops from reclaimed mine land. Carbon capture, utilization, and storage will be assessed as an emission reduction strategy, while economic models will be explored as opportunities for local communities in support of a just transition.
Working in close collaboration with stakeholders from various sectors (mining, agricultural, energy supply, transportation, manufacturing, and indigenous communities), this study will use a combination of stakeholder engagement and modelling tools to estimate emission reduction potential, scalability, as well as socio-economic and policy innovation opportunities. The research activities performed within 2020-2024 are expected to contribute to the development of environmentally responsible economic activities capable of supporting vulnerable communities affected by the energy transition, while supporting global sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Within the Canadian Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) project, we will be focusing on the energy conversion, distribution, and use downstream of the biomass crop from reclaimed mine land in Alberta. Various biomass processing and transformation technologies will be evaluated based on best market potential, environmental performance, and community preferences. Life-cycle emissions will be estimated along with the exploration of business opportunities for local communities.
The carbon sink capacity of the biomass (Salix) plantation and land management will be considered from project partners and literature data. Climate risks and socioeconomic barriers will be studied as factors affecting the feasibility and scalability of such an approach. Policy mixes will be evaluated to identify regulatory opportunities to accelerate deployment.
