The Issue of Greenhouse Gases from Hydroelectric Reservoirs: from Boreal to Tropical Regions
نویسندگان
چکیده
The role of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from freshwater reservoirs and their contribution in increasing atmospheric GHG concentrations is actually well discussed worldwide. The amount of GHGs emitted at the air-water interface of reservoirs varies over time. The maximum is attained within 3 to 5 years after impoundment. In reservoirs older >10 years in boreal and semi-arid regions, GHG emissions are similar than those of natural lakes. In tropical regions, the time to return to natural values may be longer depending on the water quality conditions. Hydropower is a very efficient way to produce electricity, showing emission factors between one and two orders of magnitude lower than the thermal alternatives.
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