GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) INVENTORY REPORT

Transcription

1 GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) INVENTORY REPORT Office of Sustainability August 2013

2 Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTRODUCTION BOUNDARIES GHG EMISSION SOURCES REPORTED GHG EMISSIONS GHG EMISSION CALCULATIONS GHG EMISSIONS INVENTORY SCOPE ONE EMISSIONS Overview Calculations SCOPE TWO EMISSIONS Overview Calculations SCOPE THREE EMISSIONS Overview Calculations REDUCING GHG EMISSIONS NEXT STEPS BIBLIOGRAPHY APPENDICES Appendix A: Terms and Definitions (National Standard of Canada, 2006) Appendix B: Campus Maps (Dalhousie University, 2013) Appendix C: List of Campus Buildings Appendix D: Data Quality Tiers Direct Emissions from Stationary Combustion (TCR:GRP 2.0 p. 67) Appendix E: Canadian Default Factors for Calculating CO 2 Emissions from Combustion of Natural Gas, Petroleum Products, and Biomass (Table 12.2, 2013 Climate Registry Default Emissions Factors, pp. 5 6) Appendix F: Default CH 4 and N 2 O Emission Factors by Technology Type for the Commercial Sector (Table 12.8, 2013 Climate Registry Default Emissions Factors, p. 15) Appendix G: Total Annual Refrigerant Loss and Emissions by Refrigerant Type ( ) Page 1

3 Sources: The Climate Registry: General Reporting Protocol 2.0, p Appendix H: Data Quality Tiers for Electricity (TCR:GRP 2.0 p. 97) Appendix I: Nova Scotia Power Emission Factors (Nova Scotia Power Inc., 2013) and National Inventory report (Environment Canada, 2013) Appendix J: Data Quality Tiers for Mobile Combustion Emissions (TCR:GRP 2.0 pp ) Appendix K: Fleet Vehicles on Campus Appendix L: Canadian Default N 2 0 and CH 4 Emission Factors for Transport Fuels (Table 13.5 and 13.7, 2013 Climate Registry Default Emissions Factors, pp , 27) Appendix M: Annual Commuting Travel Days Appendix N: Commuting Emissions by Province from Transport Canada (Transport Canada, 2011) Page 2

4 List of Figures Figure 0.1. Comparison of Scope 1 & 2 emissions between 2009/10 to 2012/13 in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tco 2 e) for the Halifax campuses... 5 Figure 0.2. Total Emissions by Scope (Halifax Campuses)... 6 Figure 0.3. (a) Emissions per Sq. Ft. in 2009 and 2012 (b) Emissions per Person on Campus in 2009 and Figure 0.4. (a) Total emissions (Halifax Campuses)... 7 Figure 0.5. Breakdown of Greenhouse Gas Emissions... 8 Figure 1.1. Dalhousie's vision and targets... 9 Figure 1.2. Campus lighting project included high efficiency upgrades including LED technology of 38 buildings/houses and all outdoor lighting on Halifax campuses... 9 Figure 1.3. Eco Olympics Every year students in residence compete to reduce Figure 2.1. Blended Commuting Mode Percentages (Halifax campuses) Figure 4.1. GHG Reduction Strategy Targets Page 3

5 List of Tables Table 2.1. Scope 1: Summary of Direct Emissions from Stationary Combustion, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Table 2.2. Scope 1: Summary of Direct Emissions from Stationary Combustion, Truro Campus Table 2.3 Scope 1: Summary of Direct Emissions from Stationary Combustion, Halifax Campuses ( ) Table 2.4. Scope 1: Summary of Refrigerant GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Table 2.5. Scope 1: Summary of Refrigerant GHG Emissions, Truro Campus Table 2.6. Scope 1: Summary of Refrigerant GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses ( ) Table Fleet Vehicle Emissions, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Table Fleet Vehicle Emissions, Truro Campus Table Fleet Vehicle Emissions, Halifax Campuses ( ) Table 2.7. Scope 2: Summary of Electricity GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013). 22 Table 2.8. Scope 2: Summary of Electricity GHG Emissions, Truro Campus (September 2012 March 2013) Table 2.9. Scope 2: Summary of Electricity GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses ( ) Table Summary of Commuting GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Table Summary of Commuting GHG Emissions, Truro Campus Table Summary of Commuting GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses ( ) Table Summary of GHG Emissions avoided by Active Transport, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Table Summary of GHG Emissions avoided by Active Transport, Truro Campus Table Summary of GHG Emissions avoided by Active Transport, Halifax Campuses ( ) *Photos Dalhousie Creative Services Page 4

6 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Dalhousie University (Dalhousie) first established their greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory base year for the 2008 fiscal year (April 1, 2008 March 31, 2009). The base year was updated to 2009 (April 1, 2009 March 3, 2010), as more reliable and complete data records were available. This GHG Inventory Report is a follow up to these previous assessments. The results of Dalhousie s annual GHG reports are published on the Office of Sustainability website. The Dalhousie University Climate Change Plan (2010) outlines the university s climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and targets for the next several years. For the 2012/2013 fiscal year, a number of projects were undertaken in accordance to this plan such as upgrading lighting in 38 buildings/houses, installing a public energy dashboard for energy competitions, and supporting an Energy Efficiency Advisor from Efficiency NS to work with Dalhousie Office of Sustainability. The Dalhousie GHG inventory identifies all direct (Scope 1) and indirect (Scope 2) emissions under the university s operational control (Figures ). Where credible data exists, Dalhousie will also report optional indirect Scope 3 emissions that arise as a function of its educational and business operations. Travel emissions do not include business travel or intercampus travel due to the lack of credible data [Figure 0.2]. Figure 0.1. Comparison of Scope 1 & 2 emissions between 2009/10 to 2012/13 in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tco 2 e) for the Halifax campuses Total greenhouse gas emissions were reduced in over the base year for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by a total of 14% [Figure 0.1]. The total building space owned in Halifax on three campuses by Dalhousie University remained the same as the previous year, with 4,636,472 square feet including Peter Green Hall, and square feet excluding Peter Green Hall. Page 5

7 The total greenhouse gas emission tonnes (Scope 1 and 2) for Halifax campuses per person decreased by 25%, while the figure by square foot decreased by 24% from the base year [Figure 0.3]. A scope comparison is shown in Figure 0.4. Figure 0.2. Total Emissions by Scope (Halifax Campuses) (a) Figure 0.3. (a) Emissions per Sq. Ft. in 2009 and 2012 (b) Emissions per Person on Campus in 2009 and 2012 (b) Page 6

8 Figure 0.4. (a) Total emissions (Halifax Campuses) Figure 0.4. (b) Total emissions by percent (Halifax Campuses) Page 7

9 To gauge success of reduction of greenhouse gases, tables are generated to track current and past emissions for easy comparison (Figure 0.5). Figure 0.5. Breakdown of Greenhouse Gas Emissions In September 2012 the Nova Scotia Agricultural College merged with Dalhousie University to become the Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture at the Agricultural Campus (AC). The AC is located 100 kilometers from the Halifax campuses in Bible Hill, Nova Scotia. The total building space of the AC campus is 763,724 square feet. The total population of Dalhousie University, including all four campuses, increased by 2,298 people to 26,642. The emissions data for the AC is incomplete due to the merger occurring mid year. Due to insufficient data, no Truro data has been added to this report; however, the formatting has been adjusted to demonstrate how the report will be constructed in future years. The Dalhousie Greenhouse Gas report will contain complete reporting of all campuses, including the AC. Page 8

10 1. INTRODUCTION On December 11, 2009, Dalhousie s President Tom Traves signed the University and College s Climate Change Statement for Canada. This statement requires a comprehensive inventory of GHG emissions to be completed within one year of signing, and within two years of signing this document a climate plan with targets must be released. In 2010, Dalhousie released its first University Climate Change Plan and baseline GHG inventory. The plan includes a clear vision and targets (Figure 1.1). This GHG inventory report is a follow up to the baseline GHG inventory. VISION: Dalhousie University is an institutional model for reducing of greenhouse gases, implementing adaptation strategies, and increasing knowledge of climate change issues of students and employees. TARGETS: Dalhousie aims to reduce GHGs 15% by 2013; 20% by 2016 and 50% by 2020 below the baseline year scope 1 and 2 emissions. A Long term objective of carbon neutrality, as outlined in Figure 6, is highlighted for Figure 1.1. Dalhousie's vision and targets The CAN/CSA ISO Greenhouse Gases Part 1: Specification with Guidance at the Organization Level for Quantification and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Removals (Adopted ISO :2006, first edition, ) standard is used as a framework for this GHG inventory report. Calculations are derived from The Climate Registry (TCR) General Reporting Protocol version 2.0, March Emission factors used are taken from TCR 2013 Default Emission Factors document April 2, 2013, and the Nova Scotia Power website. Terms and Definitions are provided in Appendix A. This report has been reviewed by staff of the Office of Sustainability and Stantec Inc.; the review does not constitute third party verification. Figure 1.2. Campus lighting project included high efficiency upgrades including LED technology of 38 buildings/houses and all outdoor lighting on Halifax campuses Page 9

11 1.1. BOUNDARIES An operational control approach was chosen by Dalhousie for this GHG inventory report, which requires the University to account for 100% of the GHG emissions over which they have direct operational control. Dalhousie University owns 100 buildings and houses (including additions) across three Halifax campuses (Studley, Carleton, and Sexton) (Appendix B), a property at 2209 Gottigen Street, and 1094 Wellington Street. Ninety five percent of buildings (and some houses) are on a district energy (DE) system where steam is created from natural gas at the Central Services Building. All properties are located in downtown Halifax, NS. The total building floor space owned by Dalhousie in Halifax is 4,636,472 square feet (Appendix C). During the 2012/13 fiscal year, the University leased a small amount of space in hospitals and retail locations in the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM). The Truro campus includes 47 buildings and houses. Over 75% of all building space is on a district energy system fed from a central biomass plant that uses fuel oil during the summer months and primarily wood chips during the rest of the year. During the 2012/13 fiscal year, three properties were leased to Nova Scotia s Department of Agriculture. Leased space and facilities that are owned, but not financially operated by Dalhousie (such as Peter Green Hall) are considered to be outside the scope of the GHG inventory. The University sells steam to University of Kings College buildings, a National Research Council building (Oxford St. and Coburg Road), and the Halifax Law Court (Spring Garden Road). The GHG emissions associated with this steam is not included in the Dalhousie GHG totals as Dalhousie does not own these facilities. Emissions from fleet vehicles are included as part of the inventory calculations; however, rental and leased transportation use is not included due to insufficient data. GHG emissions from the Halifax campus and the Truro campus are considered separately for the purpose of this report. The three categories of GHG emissions (referred to as Scope by TCR:GRP 2.0) are: Scope 1 (direct emissions): greenhouse gas emissions from sources within the entity s organizational boundaries that the reporting entity owns or controls. These are further divided into: stationary combustion, mobile combustion, physical and chemical processes, and fugitive sources (The Climate Registry, 2013). Scope 2 (indirect emissions): greenhouse gas emissions that are a consequence of activities that take place within the organizational boundaries of the reporting entity, but that occur at sources owned or controlled by another entity e.g. emissions associated with consumption of purchased electricity (The Climate Registry, 2013). Scope 3 (other indirect emissions): Other emissions whose recording are optional e.g. upstream emissions from the transportation of purchased materials or goods, or employees and students commuting to and from work (The Climate Registry, 2013). The Dalhousie GHG inventory identifies all direct (Scope 1) and indirect (Scope 2) emissions. Where credible data exists, Dalhousie also reports on optional indirect emissions sources that arise as a function of its educational and business operations (Scope 3). Page 10

12 1.2. GHG EMISSION SOURCES Emissions included in the GHG inventory report include: 1. Scope 1: Direct GHG emissions and removals a. Stationary combustion Emissions incurred through combustion of natural gas in Halifax central plant for steam, hot water, and cooling production. Bunker A is on hand for back up or peak shaving in Halifax and as a summer fuel at the AC campus when biomass is not burned. Emissions incurred through combustion of propane for food services and lab use on all campuses. On site heating fuel oil and natural gas for combustion in smaller houses in Halifax. In Truro, oil and electricity is used for heating houses. On campus diesel combustion for backup generators on all campuses. Fugitive refrigerant losses from cooling units on campus. Methane and nitrous oxide emissions generated by combustion of biomass at the AC central plant. b. Mobile combustion Combustion of vehicle fleet gasoline and diesel. 2. Biogenic CO 2 emissions CO 2 emissions from biomass combustion at facilities operated by Dalhousie AC campus. 3. Scope 2: Energy indirect GHG emissions Indirect emissions from the generation of imported electricity incurred by Nova Scotia Power during the production of electricity used on campus. 4. Scope 3: Other indirect GHG emissions Inclusion of other sources of emissions based on internal reporting needs or intended use of the inventory. This will include students and employees commuting to and from campus. Future years may report other sources, such as waste, water, and natural environment. Emissions reporting information in Section Three of this report will be categorized as Building Emissions (Scope 1, Scope 2, and biomass), and Transportation Emissions (Scope 1 (fleet), biomass, and Scope 3 (commuting travel)) REPORTED GHG EMISSIONS GHG emissions from the following greenhouse gases will be reported. Definition information is provided by Environment Canada (Environment Canada, 2013) except NF 3 (Gore, 2013). Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ): Carbon dioxide, also called carbonic acid gas, is a naturally occurring colourless, odorless, incombustible gas formed during respiration, combustion, decomposition of organic substances, and the reaction of acids with carbonates. CO 2 is used in carbonated drinks, fire extinguishers, as dry ice for refrigeration. CO 2 is present in the Earth s atmosphere at low concentrations and is constantly being removed from the air by its direct absorption into water and by plants through photosynthesis. In turn, it is naturally released into the air by plant and animal Page 11

13 respiration, decay of plant and soil organic matter, outgassing from water surfaces. Small amounts of CO 2 are also injected directly into the atmosphere by volcanic emissions and through slow geological processes such as the weathering of rock. Carbon dioxide acts as a greenhouse gas and anthropogenic sources of CO 2 emissions include combustion of fossil fuels and biomass to produce energy, building heating and cooling, land use changes including deforestation, manufacture of cement and other industrial processes. Methane (CH 4 ): Methane is a colorless, odorless, flammable gas that is the simplest hydrocarbon and is the major constituent of natural gas. Like carbon dioxide, methane is exchanged naturally between the Earth s surface and the atmosphere, however, methane is removed from the atmosphere primarily through chemical processes involving the chemical hydroxyl radical, OH. 2 These chemical interactions finally produce water and carbon dioxide. A small amount of methane is also absorbed directly by soils. Methane is present in the Earth s atmosphere at low concentrations and acts as a greenhouse gas. Methane is produced naturally during the decomposition of plant or organic matter in the absence of oxygen, as well as released from wetlands (including rice paddies), through the digestive processes of certain insects and ruminant animals such as termites, sheep and cattle. Methane is also released from industrial processes, fossil fuel extraction, coal mines, incomplete fossil fuel combustion, and garbage decomposition in landfills. Nitrous oxide (N 2 O): Nitrous oxide is a colourless, nonflammable, sweet smelling gas. Used as an anesthetic in dentistry and surgery, nitrous oxide is released naturally from oceans, by bacteria in soils, and from animal wastes. Other sources of nitrous oxide emissions include the industrial production of nylon and nitric acid, combustion of fossil fuels and biomass, soil cultivation practices, and the use of commercial and organic fertilizers. Nitrous oxide is present in the Earth s atmosphere at low concentrations and acts as a greenhouse gas. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs): Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are a class of synthetic chemical compounds that contain only fluorine, carbon and hydrogen. They are commonly used as replacements for ozonedepleting substances, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and halons in various applications including refrigeration, fire extinguishing, semi conductor manufacturing, and foam blowing. HFCs do not deplete the ozone layer; however they are powerful greenhouse gases. Emissions are not reported for the following GHGs because they are not used or emitted on Dalhousie property: Perfluorocarbons (PFCs): Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) are a group of synthetic chemicals composed of carbon and fluorine only. PFCs are powerful greenhouse gases that were introduced as alternatives to ozone depleting substances. PFCs replace chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in manufacturing semiconductors and are also emitted as a by product of industrial processes and manufacturing. Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF 6 ): Sulphur hexafluoride (SF 6 ) is a synthetic gas that is colourless, odorless, non toxic (except when exposed to extreme temperatures) and non flammable. SF 6 acts as a greenhouse gas due to its very high heat trapping capacity. SF 6 is primarily used in the electricity industry as insulating gas for high voltage equipment and as cover gas in the magnesium industry to prevent oxidation (combustion) of molten magnesium. In lesser amounts, SF 6 is used in the electronic industry in manufacturing of semiconductors, and also as tracer gas for gas dispersion studies in the industrial and laboratory settings. Nitrogen Trifluoride (NF 3 ): Nitrogen trifluoride has been recently added to the GHG protocol. NF 3 is an inorganic chemical used in high tech industrial processes. Through manufacturing of products such as semiconductors, some solar panels, and semi conductors, NF 3 can be released. Page 12

14 1.4. GHG EMISSION CALCULATIONS GHG emissions are calculated using formulas provided in The Climate Registry (TCR) General Reporting Protocol (GRP) v.2.0, 2013 (The Climate Registry, 2013). The data and calculations used for this inventory are shown in detail in the following sections of this report. Emission factors were derived from The Climate Registry s GRP v.2.0 (The Climate Registry, 2013), with the exception of emission factors for electricity, which are derived from Nova Scotia Power. Figure 1.3. Eco Olympics Every year students in residence compete to reduce energy and water consumption in buildings Page 13

15 2. GHG EMISSIONS INVENTORY When calculating the annual greenhouse gas emissions created by Dalhousie University, three main subsets are assessed: scope one, scope two, and scope three. Within each subset, the focus of the data was divided into two further subsets: a description of where the data is from and then a detailed breakdown of the calculations SCOPE ONE EMISSIONS Scope one emissions include all direct anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions (The Climate Registry, 2013) Overview Fuels (Halifax campuses): Dalhousie University has a central plant (1236 Henry Street) that provides heating to most Halifax campus buildings through a steam line and cooling through a chilled water loop to key buildings on the Studley campus. At the central plant, cooling is generated through an electric and absorption (steam) chiller. The central plant boilers are fuelled by natural gas with back up heating as bunker A. Cooling is also provided to newer buildings through individual cooling towers. Some buildings do not have air conditioning. Houses have individual oil fired or gas furnaces, though a few houses on Seymour and Henry Street are connected to the steam line. A limited amount of propane is used on campus primarily for lab and cooking purposes. Diesel back up generators are located in some major lab and residence buildings and the central heating plant. Fuels (Truro campus): The central heating plant (43 River Road) consumes #2 fuel oil (furnace oil) and Spruce wood chips to produce steam to the agricultural campus. Diesel is used for back up generators, as well as for fleet vehicles and equipment. Propane is used in kitchen services and labs. Fuel consumption information is provided by the Department of Facilities Management (FM). FM staff enter utility billing and sub metering data into a work order system software (FAMIS). Data is automatically extracted from FAMIS into a Utility tracking Excel Spreadsheet containing consumption data for the Office of Sustainability. Correspondence with Facilities Management staff verified operational practices. Refrigerants: Primary refrigerant use is in air conditioning systems on campus. Refrigerants and air conditioning units are a major source of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which have a much higher global warming potential [Appendix A] than carbon dioxide [Appendix G]. Fugitive emissions from refrigeration and air conditioning equipment are therefore important considerations in calculating an institution s GHG emissions. Dalhousie s 2012/2013 refrigerant use data was supplied to the Office of Sustainability in Excel spreadsheets from Hussmann (3 rd party contractor for the Halifax campus) as well as from Convoy Refrigeration and Halifax Heating and Air Conditioning (3 rd party contractors for the Truro campus). The global warming potentials used in the refrigerant calculations were sourced from The Climate Registry s Page 14

16 2013 Default Emission Factors document, the fourth IPCC report, as well as Refrigerant Solutions Limited [Table 2.4 and 2.5]. Fleet: The fleet for the Halifax campuses includes thirty two light trucks, one passenger car, five tractors and two skid steers. The Truro campus fleet includes forty eight light trucks, two passenger cars, fifteen tractors, two skid steers, one dump truck, and one bus. A list of fleet vehicles and owners was provided by the University Risk Manager, who oversees the insurance of all University owned vehicles. Mileage data was obtained for all vehicles through an online survey to vehicle managers. It was not possible to collect a complete data set of fuel purchases. Commuting kilometer data was obtained through an annual online transportation survey Calculations Fuels: (Central Heating Plant Natural Gas (back up Bunker A) and Biomass (at the AC), House Heating (Furnace Oil and Natural Gas), Back up Generators (Diesel), Cooking and Lab Equipment (propane)). The available data for CO 2, CH 4, and N 2 O emissions from stationary combustion is assessed according to the TCR:GRP 2.0 methodology and qualifications (formally Data Quality Tiers) [Appendix D] (TCR:GRP 2.0 has changed their tier names. Tier titles from 1.1 will be listed in brackets after the method titles from 2.0). The current qualifications are based on data availability during preparation of this report. Direct emissions monitoring is not currently in place, which would require sensors placed at exit points and continuous recording of data. Direct carbon and heat values are not delivered by the supplier, and have not been tested in a controlled laboratory environment. Therefore direct CO 2 emissions data from stationary combustion currently falls under GRP ST 04 CO 2 (formally Tier C), where default emission factors are used based on fuel type. Values for CH 4 and N 2 O emissions are not currently measured either, but the technology type is known to be a residual fuel oil boiler, therefore it falls under GRP ST 06 CH 4 & N 2 O (formally Tier B). Direct stationary combustion emissions were calculated by using the following steps: 1. Determine annual fuel consumption at each campus. 2. Determine appropriate CO 2 emission factor for each fuel type. Emissions factors are based on TCR s 2013 Default Emission Factors in grams of CO 2 / unit of fuel combusted [Appendix E]. 3. Determine the appropriate CH 4 and N 2 O emission factor for each fuel. Emissions factors are based on TCR s 2013 Default Emission Factors in grams of CH 4 / unit and grams of N 2 O / unit of fuel combusted [Appendix F], as the fuel type and basic technology are known. The two types used on campus are residual fuel and gas/diesel oil boilers, both with liquid fuel. Page 15

17 4. Calculate the CO 2 emissions for each fuel type and convert to metric tonnes (Source TCR:GRP 2.0 p. 77): Fuel A CO2 Emissions (metric tons) = Fuel Consumed Emission Factor 1,000 (gallons) (kg CO2/gallon) (kg/metric ton) Fuel B CO2 Emissions (metric tons) = Fuel Consumed Emission Factor 1,000 (gallons) (kg CO2/gallon) (kg/metric ton) Total CO2 Emissions (metric tons) = CO2 from Fuel A + CO2 from Fuel B +... (metric tons) (metric tons) (metric tons) Canadian Emission Factor Equivalent: Fuel A CO2 Emissions (metric tons) = Fuel consumed (litres) x Emission Factor (metric ton CO2 / litre) 5. Calculate the CH 4 and N 2 O emissions for each fuel type (Source TCR:GRP 2.0 p. 77) Fuel/Technology Type A CH 4 Emissions = Fuel Use Emission Factor 1,000,000 (metric tons) (MMBtu) (g CH 4 /MMBtu) (g/metric ton) Canadian Emission Factor Equivalent: Fuel/Technology Type A CH 4 Emissions = Fuel Use Emission Factor (metric tons) (Litres) (metric tons CH 4 /L) Fuel/Technology Type A N2O Emissions = Fuel Use Emission Factor 1,000,000 (metric tons) (MMBtu) (g CH 4 /MMBtu) (g/metric ton) Canadian Emission Factor Equivalent: Fuel/Technology Type A N 2 O Emissions = Fuel Use Emission Factor (metric tons) (Litres) (metric tons N2O/L) Page 16

18 6. Convert CH 4 and N 2 O emissions to units of CO 2 equivalence and determine total emissions from stationary combustion (Source TCR:GRP 2.0 p. 78): CO2 Emissions = CO2 Emissions 1 (metric tons CO2e) (metric tons) (GWP) CH4 Emissions = CH4 Emissions 21 (metric tons CO2e) (metric tons) (GWP) N2O Emissions = N2O Emissions 310 (metric tons CO2e) (metric tons) (GWP) Total Emissions = CO2 + CH4 + N2O (metric tons CO2e) (metric tons CO2e) The results of these above calculations are presented in the following tables ( ). The emission factor shown is all three (CO 2, CH 4, N 2 O) emission factors combined. Table 2.1. Scope 1: Summary of Direct Emissions from Stationary Combustion, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Energy Source Consumption Unit Emission Factor (tco 2 e / unit) GHG Emissions CO 2 (tco 2 e) GHG Emissions CH 4 (tco 2 e) GHG Emissions N 2 O (tco 2 e) Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Furnace 63,167 Litres Oil Bunker A 233,797 Litres Oil Diesel 9,624 Litres Propane 51,210 Litres Natural Gas 572,887 GJ , ,631 Sub Total 29, ,558 Dalhousie provides steam to University of King s 2,309 College (235,651 sq/f) NRC (30,000), Halifax Law Courts (100,000+) = (external steam/total steam)*total emissions. Total GHG emissions (Halifax) 27,249 Page 17

19 Table 2.2. Scope 1: Summary of Direct Emissions from Stationary Combustion, Truro Campus Energy Source Consumption Unit Emission Factor (tco 2 e / unit) Furnace Litres Oil Diesel Litres GHG Emissions CO 2 (tco 2 e) GHG Emissions CH 4 (tco 2 e) GHG Emissions N 2 O (tco 2 e) Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Propane Litres Wood kg Total GHG Emissions (AC) Please note Truro campus data was not available for the fiscal year due to the newness of the merger. Empty Tables are provided for the AC campus to show the format that will be used for the following year. Table 2.3 Scope 1: Summary of Direct Emissions from Stationary Combustion, Halifax Campuses ( ) Energy Source Consumption Emissions (tco 2 e) Unit Furnace Litres 502, , ,523 1, Oil Bunker C Litres 12,888,56 5,723,263 40,955 18,186 7 Bunker Litres 101, A Diesel Litres 8,756 44,967 16, Propane Litres 49,668 53,547 79, Natural Gas GJ 267, ,427 13,391 28,108 Emissions from steam provided to University of King s College, 3,636 2,842 2,530 NRC, & Law Court Total GHG emissions (Halifax) 38,753 29,499 26,431 Refrigerants Since emissions from refrigerants at Dalhousie constitute less than 5% of University s total emissions, the TCR:GRP 2.0 Screening Method can be used to estimate fugitive refrigerant emissions. The following Screening Method steps were followed: 1. Determine the types and quantities of refrigerants used. 2. Estimate annual emissions for each type of refrigerant. 3. Convert to units of CO 2 e and determine total emissions. Page 18

20 Table 2.4. Scope 1: Summary of Refrigerant GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Refrigerant Name and GWP Consumption (Loss) Units GWP (tco 2 e / unit) Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) R134A Tonne 1, R Tonne 1, R401A Tonne 18 0 R401B Tonne 15 0 R402A Tonne 1,680 3 R404A Tonne 3, R407A Tonne 1,770 1 R407C Tonne 1, R410A Tonne 1, RS24/R426A Tonne 1,508 1 Total GHG emissions (Halifax) 213 Table 2.5. Scope 1: Summary of Refrigerant GHG Emissions, Truro Campus Refrigerant Name and GWP Consumption (Loss) Units GWP (tco 2 e / unit) R134A Tonne 1,430 R22 Tonne 1,810 R401A Tonne 18 R401B Tonne 15 R402A Tonne 1,680 R404A Tonne 3,260 R407A Tonne 1,770 R407C Tonne 1,526 R410A Tonne 1,725 RS24/R426A Tonne 1,508 Total GHG emissions (AC) Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Table 2.6. Scope 1: Summary of Refrigerant GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses ( ) Emissions Source Emissions (tco 2 e) Refrigerant loss Fleet Vehicles The methodology for mobile combustion as per the TCR:GRP 2.0 were followed [Appendix J]. Factors from TCR 2013 Default Emission Factors document April 2, 2013 were used. Mobile combustion CO 2 emissions were determined using the methodology GRP MO 04 CO 2 (formally Tier C) in which fuel use is estimated by using vehicle mileage and vehicle fuel economy, and default CO 2 Page 19

21 emission factors by fuel type are used. CH 4 and N 2 0 emissions were calculated using methodology GRP MO 06 CH 4 & N 2 O (formally Tier B), as the model year and mileage travelled by each vehicle are known. Direct emissions from mobile combustion are calculated using the following steps: 1. Calculate CO 2 emissions from mobile combustion. a) Identify total annual fuel consumption by fuel type Tier C Method: Estimation based on miles travelled and fuel economy (Source TCR:GRP 2.0, p. 87) Fuel Use = Distance [(City FE City %) + (Highway FE Hwy %)] (gallons) (miles) (mpg) (mpg) FE = Fuel Economy Canadian Conversion (neglecting highway fuel efficiency because fleet vehicles are almost entirely driven in city): Fuel Use = Distance City FE (liters) (km) (L/km) Fuel economies were estimated using the online tool fueleconomy.gov as recommended by the TCR:GRP 2.0 (p. 87). In future years, the Natural Resources Canada Fuel Consumption Ratings website will be used instead. Appendix K lists the vehicles used on campus during the fiscal year, their associated fuel consumptions, and the litres of fuel used calculated based on the formulas above. 2. Select appropriate CO 2 emission factor for each fuel type (Source TCR 2013 Default Emission Factors, p. 18). Relevant Canadian Factors: Gasoline g CO2/litre Diesel g CO2/litre 3. Calculate total CO 2 emissions and convert to metric tonnes (Source TCR:GRP 2.0, p. 89): Fuel A CO2 Emissions = Fuel Consumed Emission Factor (metric tonnes) (gallons) (metric tonne CO2/gallon) Canadian Conversion: Fuel A CO2 Emissions = Fuel consumed x Emission Factor (metric tonnes) (litres) (metric tonne CO2 / litre) 4. Calculate CH 4 and N 2 0 emissions from mobile combustion. The CH 4 and N 2 O emissions of Dalhousie s fleet vehicles were calculated by using the TCR Default Emission Factors document Table 13.5: CH 4 and N 2 O Emission Factors for Highway Vehicles by Model Year, p. 24 [Appendix L]. 5. Convert CH 4 and N 2 O emissions to units of CO 2 equivalence and determine total emissions. Page 20

22 Mobile combustion emission calculation results are presented in Table 2.10 and 2.11 below: Table 2.7. Fleet Vehicle Emissions, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Energy Source Consumption Unit Emission Factor (tco 2 / unit) GHG Emissions CO 2 (tco 2 e) GHG Emissions CH 4 (tco 2 e) GHG Emissions N 2 O (tco 2 e) Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Regular 47,125 Litres ~ Gasoline Diesel Fuel 19,052 Litres ~ Total Table 2.8. Fleet Vehicle Emissions, Truro Campus Energy Source Consumption Unit Emission Factor (tco 2 / unit) Regular Litres ~ Gasoline Diesel Fuel Litres ~ Total GHG Emissions CO 2 (tco 2 e) GHG Emissions CH 4 (tco 2 e) GHG Emissions N 2 O (tco 2 e) Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Table 2.9. Fleet Vehicle Emissions, Halifax Campuses ( ) Emissions Source Emissions (tco 2 e) Fleet Vehicle SCOPE TWO EMISSIONS Scope two emissions are indirect anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions associated with the consumption of purchased or acquired electricity, steam, heating, or cooling (The Climate Registry, 2013) Overview Halifax campuses: Electricity is provided to the University by Nova Scotia Power. A large main feed comes to the Weldon Law Building and is distributed to many of the large buildings on Studley and Carlton campuses. Other buildings and houses have individual accounts and are fed from the street. Electricity is used for lights, HVAC systems, labs, equipment, and for cooling (electric chiller) and heating in some limited locations. Truro campus: Electricity is provided to the agricultural campus by Nova Scotia Power. There are two main electrical feeds on campus that include campus transformers. These feeds provide electricity to main buildings. There are a number of smaller buildings and houses that have individual accounts and are fed from the street. Page 21

23 Calculations Indirect Emissions from Electricity Emission factors are available directly from Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI), which satisfies GRP ST 01 CO 2 and GRP ST 05 CH 4 & N 2 O (formally Tier A) indirect emissions from electricity [Appendix H]. Scope 2 electricity emissions were calculated by using the following steps: 1. Determine annual electricity consumption. 2. Select appropriate emissions factors. 3. Determine total emissions and convert to metric tonnes CO 2 e. Total emissions = Electricity Consumption (kwh) x Emission Intensity (metric tonne CO 2 e/kwh) Tier A: Generator specific emissions factors are used as per Nova Scotia Power Inc. emission intensity table [Appendix I]. These recently published coefficients for emission intensity values from NSPI allow for accurate calculations of the emissions associated with purchased electricity. Emission factors from the NSPI total system were used. GHG emissions associated with purchased electricity at Dalhousie are presented in Tables 2.7 and 2.8. Table Scope 2: Summary of Electricity GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Energy Source Consumption Unit Emission Factor (tco 2 e / unit) Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Electricity 70,312,611 kwh ,185 Table Scope 2: Summary of Electricity GHG Emissions, Truro Campus (September 2012 March 2013) Energy Source Consumption Unit Emission Factor (tco 2 e / unit) Electricity kwh Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Table Scope 2: Summary of Electricity GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses ( ) Energy Source Consumption Emissions (tco2e) Purchased Electricity Unit kwh 69,513,597 70,500,933 71,041,226 58,386 58,402 57,171 Note: Total tco 2 e includes CH 4 and N 2 O as emission factors used by NS Power has already factored their associated emissions. Page 22

24 2.3. SCOPE THREE EMISSIONS Scope 3 emissions are all other (non scope 2) indirect anthropogenic GHG emissions that occur in the value chain. Examples of scope 3 emissions include emissions resulting from the extraction and production of purchased materials and fuels, employee commuting and business travel, use of sold products and services, and waste disposal (The Climate Registry, 2013) Overview Commuting: Commuting emissions are emissions created from employees and students travelling to and from Dalhousie University. Transportation statistics were gathered from the Dalhousie University annual Sustainability and Commuting Survey, conducted in November Calculations Indirect Emissions from Commuting Commuter travel emission calculations rely on several assumptions, as vehicle fuel economy is averaged, the number of full time/part time student and employee commuter days is averaged, and survey data is extrapolated and applied across the entire campus population. An estimated value of emissions for commuter travel was deemed important to gauge for future transportation demand management planning. Figure 2.1 shows the blended (where full time = 1, part time = 0.5) percentages at the Halifax campuses of modes of transportation used during the past year by students, staff, and faculty. Figure 2.1. Blended Commuting Mode Percentages (Halifax campuses) The commuter transportation emission calculations focus on travel to and from campus for work and class purposes. This does not include intercampus or business travel. Page 23

25 Calculations: Transport Canada s commuting emission factor was used in transit calculations (Transport Canada, 2011) [Appendix N]. The following steps were used to calculate commuting travel emissions [Tables 2.13 and 2.14], as well as the emissions avoided by using active transportation [Tables 2.16 and 2.17]: 1. Identify number of employees and students who travelled by mode. a) Survey data was used to identify travel mode percentages (DalTrax, 2013). This was calculated by using the following equation: primary mode of transportation (%) x secondary mode of transportation (%) x b) Travel statistics were extrapolated to the full campus population of students (Halifax: 15,201 of which 2,130 are part time, Truro: 889 of which 48 are part time) (Dalhousie University, 2012) and employees (Halifax: 6,285 of which 794 are part time, Truro: 325 of which 27 are part time). Campus population numbers were provided by Human Resources for employees and the Registrar s Office for students. c) Identified the number of part time students and employees versus the number of full time students and employees. Divided the number of part time students and employees by 2 to reflect fewer days travelled to campus. Multiplied each transportation mode percentage by the full time employee and student population combined with half of the part time population. 2. Determine kilometers travelled by mode. a) Identified the average number of kilometers travelled daily by mode based on the survey data. It was determined that the average is 40 km daily for people who drive alone, 20 km for carpool and public transit. To demonstrate how much GHG emissions are reduced, 8 km was assumed the maximum distance from campus for cycling, so an average of 5 km was used and 5 km was assumed the maximum distance from campus for walking, so an average of 3 km was used (DalTRAX Report). b) Determined the number of days in the year travelled. Appendix M identifies average number of days travelled by employees, 90% of student that are at Dalhousie for eight months, and 10% of students that are at Dalhousie for twelve months. c) Multiplied the average kilometers travelled by mode by the number of days travelled per year by the number of commuters to determine the total kilometers travelled. 3. Multiply kilometers travelled by Transport Canada s emission factor for CO 2, CH 4, and N 2 O for driving, use EPA emission factor for bus emissions a) Transport Canada supplies an emission factor of 258 grams of CO 2 e emissions per each kilometer driven (Transport Canada, 2011) [Appendix N], and the EPA provides an emission factor of grams of CO 2 e emissions per each kilometer driven per bus passenger (EPA, 2008). 4. Divide drive alone emissions to find carpooling emissions a) Divide kilometers travelled while carpooling by two to determine to emissions created by carpooling (SmartTrip Dalhousie ). Page 24

26 Table Summary of Commuting GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Commuter Annual Distance Unit Emission Factor (gco 2 e/km) Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Faculty/Staff Drive alone 18,406,697 km ,749 Students Drive Alone 7,289,868 km ,881 Faculty/Staff Car Pool 11,442,572 km ,476 Students Car Pool 6,748,340 km Faculty/Staff Transit 6,794,083 km Students Transit 13,439,604 km Total 10,324 Table Summary of Commuting GHG Emissions, Truro Campus Commuter Annual Distance Unit Emission Factor (gco 2 e/km) Faculty/Staff Drive alone km Students Drive Alone km Faculty/Staff Car Pool km Students Car Pool km Faculty/Staff Transit km Students Transit km Total Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Table Summary of Commuting GHG Emissions, Halifax Campuses ( ) Emissions Source Emissions (tco 2 e) Commuting Travel ,542 20,231 12,786 Table Summary of GHG Emissions avoided by Active Transport, Halifax Campuses (April 2012 March 2013) Commuter Kilometers Travelled Units Emission Factor (gco 2 e/km) Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Faculty/Staff Cycling 562,524 km Students Cycling 1,320,829 km Faculty/Staff Walking 938,698 km Students Walking 3,511,873 km ,634 Total Emissions AVOIDED Page 25

27 Table Summary of GHG Emissions avoided by Active Transport, Truro Campus Commuter Kilometers Travelled Units Emission Factor (tco 2 e/km) Faculty/Staff Cycling km Students Cycling km Faculty/Staff Walking km Students Walking km Total GHG Emissions (tco 2 e) Total Emissions AVOIDED Table Summary of GHG Emissions avoided by Active Transport, Halifax Campuses ( ) Emissions Source Emissions (tco 2 e) Active Transportation 2,138 2,226 2,727 Page 26

28 3. REDUCING GHG EMISSIONS Quantifying of current Dalhousie s GHG emissions is the first step in establishing the conditions and environmental impacts of the University s operations. The second step is determining methods for mitigating these impacts and reducing the University s overall carbon footprint. The following diagram [Figure 4.1] shows the different mitigation strategy targets for aiding the university in becoming carbon neutral by the year Once all other possible options for reducing GHG emissions have been exhausted, Dalhousie will consider investing in carbon offsets. Figure 3.1. GHG Reduction Strategy Targets The Dalhousie University Climate Change Plan details mitigation and adaptation strategies and specific targets. In the fiscal year, a variety of projects were undertaken to reduce greenhouse gases including: Campus lighting upgrade of 38 buildings/houses and all outdoor lighting on the Halifax campuses; A new embedded energy advisor from Efficiency NS started to work with the energy team on projects; LEED Gold certification of the Mona Campbell Bld; Launching of public education energy dashboard; Implementation of the first employee bus pass program (applicable to Halifax campuses); Creation of a Smart Trip commuter website for Dalhousie employees and students; Energuide house audits and fridge and freezer audits for the AC; and Auditing and planning work for a number of projects commercial kitchen retrofits, trigeneration project, urinal tank controllers, major building retrofit Tupper, house energy upgrades. Page 27

29 4. NEXT STEPS A number of projects that will significantly reduce Dalhousie University s GHG emissions are currently being planned. They include: Climate Change Planning: With the addition of the AC, a new edition of the Climate Change Plan will be released in 2014 that includes updates to the Halifax campus and information on the AC campus including adaptation strategies, targets, and mitigation measures. Tri generation: This the highest rated priority project in the campus energy master plan to control utility costs, address deferred maintenance, ensure energy security and reduce GHGs. This project has now entered the planning stage. Sustainability retrofitting projects small to large: Dalhousie has over 5.5 million square feet of building space and over 150 buildings/houses on all four campuses. The Office will specifically focus on auditing, feasibility studies, business case, RFP development and funding to stimulate project action. Examples include five building upgrade, equipment upgrades, and active transportation corridors. Operational and Behavioural project: The university has invested in building metering. This powerful data set can be used to hone building operations such as heating and cooling scheduling and for student and building occupant engagement. The Office will concentrate on developing a program to engage employees and students to shave off energy and water costs through day to day behaviours. Green Building: Dalhousie instituted a new Green Building policy in In the next three to five years the University can build on their successes and show the total LCA benefits of green building. Page 28

30 5. BIBLIOGRAPHY Dalhousie University. (2012, December 1). Dalhousie University (excluding King's) Enrolment by Faculty and Major as of December 1, 2012 (Headcounts). Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Dalhousie University. (2013). Campus Map. Retrieved July 6, 2013, from Dalhousie University Inspiring Minds: campusmaps.dal.ca/ Environment Canada. (2013, June 21). Environment Canada. Retrieved July 15, 2013, from Definitions and Glossary: ghg/default.asp?lang=en&n=b710ae51 1#footnote2 Environment Canada. (2013). National Inventory Report : Greenhouse Gas Sources and Sinks in Canada. EPA. (2008, May). Optional Emissions from Commuting, Business Travel and Product Transport. Retrieved December 23, 2013, from EPA Climate Leaders: Gore, J. (2013, May 28). GHG Protocol adds NF3 to reporting guidelines: What is it and why does it matter? Retrieved December 23, 2013, from 2degrees: carbon management/resources/ghgprotocol adds nf3 reporting guidelines what it and why does it matter/ National Standard of Canada. (2006). Specification with guidance at the organization level for quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions and removals. International Standard, 1 5. Nova Scotia Power Inc. (2013). Total Emissions (All Plants). Retrieved June 26, 2013, from Nova Scotia Power: An Emera Company: SmartTrip Dalhousie. (n.d.). Dalhousie University. Retrieved December 23, 2013, from Rideshare Parking: trip/parking/carpool parking.html The Climate Registry. (2013, April 2) Default Emission Factors. Retrieved June 26, 2013, from The Climate Registry: Climate Registry Default Emissions Factors.pdf The Climate Registry. (2013, March). General Reporting Protocol. Retrieved June 26, 2013, from The Climate Registry: Transport Canada. (2011, August 12). Workplace Travel Plans Guidance for Canadian Employers. Retrieved July 11, 2013, from Urban Transportation Emission Calculator Case Studies: CETU/HTML/casestudies.htm Page 29