Ddream: Deep Decarbonization and Renewable Energy in the Appalachian Mountains: A Socio-Ecological Systems Approach to Evaluating Ecological Governance

Stephen P Mainzer (Pennsylvania State University)
Charles Andy Cole (Pennsylvania State University)
Leslie Hendricks (Pennsylvania State University)

The global imperative of reducing carbon emissions (deep decarbonization) can only be achieved if we substitute energy sources that do not come from fossil fuels. This transformation will require substantial changes in the way residents think about energy and governance actions in rapidly changing political and ecological environments. We have selected the Appalachian region of Pennsylvania as one of the most difficult regions to advocate for transition— for reasons ranging from cultural, to economic and environmental. Despite clear trends illustrating a rapid decline of coal production, job loss, and increased substance abuse risks, recent advancesin renewable energy have yet to make a substantial inroad into the region as long-held cultural and economic traditions of coal extraction persist.

Our study has two objectives:

• to explore the utility of suitability analysis in informing strategies for transitioning from a fossil-fuel-based economy to a renewable energy infrastructure in the Appalachian Mountains region;
• to examine linkages between biophysical environments and the capacity for ecological governance.

First, we will adapt the McHarg Method of land-use suitability analysis to assess biophysical and social conditions and the 2018 mid-term election results as a proxy measure for pro-environmental cultural values and governance actions. For each type of data a heterogeneous layer will be evaluated and ranked in terms of least-to-most suitable for solar infrastructure. Layers will be overlaid to illustrate biophysical and social congruencies describing the most and least suitable areas throughout the state. Second, we conduct a statistical analysis describing how, or if, the biophysical and social characteristics described in the suitability analysis informed the mid-term election results. By unraveling linkages between the socio-ecological environment and voting actions, we expect these results will formulate the basis for localized strategies to encourage pro- environmental governance that promotes renewable energy initiatives.