ROY MINK

GEOTHERMAL 101

A discussion of the basic geothermal systems ranging from high temperature capable of electric generation to the lower temperature systems generally used for space heating, greenhouse or aquaculture.  Locations of geothermal resources in the US and examples of how the energy can be used will be presented and discussed.

Art nash and debu misra

Using Alaskan Wood for Biochar

Biomass is abundant in most parts of Alaska and combusted primarily for heat.  When deprived of oxygen while roasting  ('pyrolysis')  the output is a char, that when mixed with fertilizers and/or compost, can regulate water retention/use, and microbial activity and allow for good cation exchange in the root zone of plants. Carbon is returned to the earth and can act as an agent to encourage optimal conditions for plant growth, be used as a good water filtration medium to clean up water, and in some cases in sub-arctic soils, it has been shown to be beneficial in reclamation of mining areas as well by increasing ground cover. It is important to load the char with the best composite of nutrients and we will cover various vessels to make char, ways to check the quality, and methods of loading!

CANCELLED

ART NASH

Solar Assistance with Growing Food

Despite Alaska’s high latitudes and long summer days, solar energy can play a role in

on or off-grid agricultural operations.  Alaska is a food insecure state with ~95% of its food supply being imported And by early 2022, there were 2,000 small-scale solar power systems connected to the Railbelt grid alone. With recent longer growing seasons due to climatic shifts, many people are looking to extend the growing season and harvesting food as well as energy can be done here in Alaska.

 This presentation will address ways of doing so- with solar.

JEREMY KASPER

Building an Innovation Network in Alaska Centered in our Energy Systems and Transition

ART NASH AND DEBU MISRA

What's in the Water and How Is Energy Used in Mitigation?

Groundwater can be polluted by dumps and landfills' leachate, from snowmelt filtering down through decomposing materials, releasing soluble materials along the way. Watersheds in Alaska drain precipitation and surface runoff into a common body of water which can eventually determine the quality of your potable water.  In addition, underground storage tanks can be a contamination source when they corrode or leak and move through the soil, leaving a residue trapped between soil particles. PFAS, Perchlorates, and petrol solvents are all examples of society-caused contaminants found in Alaska. Several types of mediation can be applied to reduce the levels of contamination.   This session will look at naturally occurring contaminants such as arsenic, manganese, iron, and nitrates which can also leach into potable water supplies as well.- pun intended!  

RACHELL MURPHY

Alaska Plastic Recovery was founded by Patrick Simpson, a dedicated lifelong Alaskan who recognized a pressing need for a sustainable solution to the pervasive plastic pollution in the state. Initially, the company focused on addressing the vast amounts of plastic waste that accumulated in Alaska's coastal waters, particularly the plastic debris found in the ocean. However, as the company evolved, it expanded its mission to prevent plastics from reaching the ocean in the first place by offering a local recycling option for residents.  Focusing our efforts on both allows us to create a sustainable solution to the plastic problem we face as a state.

ART NASH AND CLIMATE STEWARDS

How the Changing Climate is Impacting Alaska

There are changes in calendars, temperatures and moisture that Alaskan residents are finding ways to adapt to. Coastal flooding is causing some communities to move, some animals and plants are feeding and thriving in new areas, and snow/rain schedules are morphing. Learn from local middle and high school students what they think the best ways to adapt are for what seem to be emerging trends!