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ENERGY (& Environment) by Victoria Chanse |
PROBLEMS
1. Climate-- The Union of Concerned Scientists provides an overview of the linkages between energy and climate change, which is caused largely by fossil fuel combustion.
2. Air-- Air particulates and air emissions from power plants and fuel-driven vehicles have led to smog, acid rain, and respiratory problems. This must-visit site for an overview of the different air issues is the US EPA's Office of Air and Radiation. For air quality in U. cities, see NRDC's Breath-taking Report and the American Lung Association, which shows the major air pollutants and their health effects. For acid rain, visit the "information sites section" at the Institute for Global Communications.
3. Nuclear Power-- You're probabaly not aware of how many nuclear power plants are in the US until you look at the Nuclear Control Institute with all the existing power plants mapped out. In addition to graphics, also serves as a good source for nuclear issues and advocacy groups.
SOLUTIONS
4. Technology-- National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Clean Energy Basics page includes a plethora of clean energy technologies and solutions, including excellent links to energy efficient products and energy information for consumers. Also contains a great online photo library of renewable energy and energy efficient technology.
5. Advocacy-- For organizations in the US working on sustainable energy, check out the Energy Foundation's Web page, which contains contact information and links to the sustainable energy advocacy community. See also, the International Network for Sustainable Energy, a network for NGOs around the world working on sustainable energy issues.
Victoria Chanse is a Program Associate at the Energy Foundation.