Report on the Recommended Method to Measure the Carbon Footprint of a USCG Vessel
Abstract
Executive Order (E.O.) 13514 directs Federal agencies to lead by example in improving energy efficiency and managing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In response to this directive, the U.S. Coast Guard embarked on developing an initial defendable methodology to quantify the annual GHG emissions and resulting carbon footprint of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) vessel fleet. The initial methodology (as outlined in the Appendix) was developed for specific emission sources to provide for the effective evaluation of management decisions. The initial methodology was assessed and, due to data limitations and the evolving science behind GHG inventory, modified to consider only the consumption of hydrocarbons (i.e. fuels) and shore-side electrical power. This change was necessary in order to conform to other ongoing Agency efforts in GHG inventory and reporting efforts. For example, emissions from employee commute were excluded awaiting results from DHS agency-wide survey. Consumables and supply chain emissions were excluded awaiting the release of Federal guidance and recommendations. Therefore, the current methodology may be enhanced as new research and data become available. This methodology development is presented and recommendations for future work are made.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA557263
Entities
People
- Chris Turner
- Cindy Chen
- Michael Obar
- Sarah Wickenheiser