We asked several Anthesis experts to comment on sustainability trends and topics that are emerging, changing and impacting businesses, cities and governments globally for our 2019 sustainability predictions series. In our fifth video, Executive Director George Favaloro discusses the renewable energy landscape. #AccordingtoAnthesis
What are some big changes we’re going to see in 2019?
In 2019 we’re going to see a lot of focus by companies on cutting Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions, the emissions from their own operations. Cutting these emissions is a much tougher problem but as companies look to the future they know they’re going to have to do it.
What should businesses do to address this?
In terms of replacing natural gas there’s biogenic gas from bio-digestives and landfills, which is considered renewable, and combined heat and power [CHP] can be an attractive option. On the transport side fuelling with liquefied natural gas can also cut emissions. Longer term electrification can be a key strategy and some thermal industrial and heating processes can be electrified.
What’s some regulation or legislation that businesses should be aware of?
In the U.S. the market for renewable natural gas is highly dependent on the federal renewable fuel standard legislation. The current program runs through 2022 and it’s not clear what will come after 2022. Anyone investing or procuring renewable gas needs to be aware of these regulations and assess the associated risks.
What should companies do to address their scope 1 emissions?
There are two key steps to get started. First, companies need to understand their Scope 1 challenges – the specifics matter, and determine both the size and type of the need, and what options might be available to address the need. The second key step is to start to flesh out and understand the options. Many of these will take time to implement so it’s key to get started soon so the company can identify the most promising set of solutions for their particular situation.
