Sustainability and Energy Action Plan

GLOSSARY GRANTS PASS SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY ACTION PLAN GLOSSARY Adaptation Adaptation is the act of adjusting to a change, such as the warming of the planet. In the context of this Plan, adaptation measures seek ways to live well in a warmer climate . Biochar Biochar is the lightweight, porous black residue that remains after burning plant matter and/or animal manure under low -oxygen conditions. As a soil amendment, biochar sequesters carbon from the atmosphere for centuries or longer, it retains moisture efficiently which can reduce irrigation demands, and it provides habitat for beneficial microorganisms. In the context of this Plan, biochar is recommended as a possible reuse for downed City trees. All wood that is deposited at the Merlin Transfer Station gets processed into biochar. Brownfields Brownfields are pieces of land that are or are perceived to be contaminated due to their past uses. This status makes redevelopment of them eligible for additional funding. Cascadia Subduction Zone Grants Pass is on the Cascadia Subduction Zone. State geologists estimate an earthquake with a 9.0+ magnitude could hit the region within the next 50 years. Community Solar Community solar systems provide opportunities for citizens to use solar energy to power their home even if they do not have a suitable space for panels to be installed at their address. Digester A digester is a container in which sewage is broken down by microbes and produces biogas, primarily methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Ecosystem An ecosystem is a natural system consisting of all plants, animals, and microorganisms in an area functioning together with all the non -living physical factors of the environment. Although artificial ecosystems can be created, they are not self -sustaining, and the word ecosystem typically refers to a natural ecosystem. Ecosystem Services An ecosystem service is any positive benefit that a natural system provides to people. There arefour interrelated categories of ecosystem services. Provisioning services include air tobreathe, food to eat, water to drink, and materials to use. Regulating services include pollination, air and water purification, waste decomposition, erosion and flood control, temperature moderation during heat waves, and climate regulation. Cultural services include 172