Library Subscription: Guest
Proceedings of SEBUA-12 ICHMT International Symposium on Sustainable Energy in Buildings and Urban Areas
July, 14-20, 2012, Kusadasi, Turkey

DOI: 10.1615/ICHMT.2012.SEBUA-12


ISBN: 978-1-56700-312-3

ISSN Online: 2642-6544

Assessing Soil CO2 at Project Sites in the Desert Southwest, United States

pages 323-328
DOI: 10.1615/ICHMT.2012.SEBUA-12.240
Get accessGet access

ABSTRACT

Substantial amounts of air pollution are generated during construction activities. Large volumes of particulate matter and greenhouse gases (GHG's) such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) from fuel combustion and land disturbance are generated. Emissions from construction can represent a large air quality impact that, although temporary in nature, can contribute to the overall release of GHG's in a region. Of the common construction activities, earthmoving that consist of clearing, grading, trenching, soil compaction and cut and fill operation can produce significant amounts of CO2 by disrupting soil aggregates, increasing aeration, incorporating plant residue, and oxidizing soil organic carbon. The amount of CO2 that is sequestered in the soils of a project site varies depending upon the climate of the region, and available vegetation. A preliminary assessment of the project site, prior to construction, to quantify the amount of CO2 stored in the soils will provide a baseline physical condition. Identifying this preliminary condition will provide necessary data to discussions of the projects impact to the environment and the current regulatory criteria that may be relevant.
In the desert southwest of the United States, construction activities generally disturb large segments of sparsely vegetated land. The arid to semi-arid terrain is vegetated by drought resistant species that play a fundamental role in the process of soil formation. Construction activities that disturb these soils reduce the ability of CO2 uptake. This study examines and assesses the amount of stored CO2 in the soils of a project site. A conceptual model of soil disturbance and CO2 release is discussed with emphasis placed on measurement methodologies, soil respiration in desert climates, and cost to construction when considering proposed regulatory regimes.

Begell Digital Portal Begell Digital Library eBooks Journals References & Proceedings Research Collections Prices and Subscription Policies Begell House Contact Us Language English 中文 Русский Português German French Spain