Hello I am Alex. I think it is strange how there was a massive drought this summer in the mid-United States. This hasn’t occurred for many years, and I believe it is definitely a sign that our climate is changing, wether it’s from Carbon Dioxide emissions, or from global pollution. We’ll have to wait and see if the drought worsens in the next few years, and if it does, we will have to take steps in order to preserve the climate of that region and to maintain the numerous crops that we depend on in order to survive.

I think a huge part of achieving goals such as the ones mentioned above is tapping our unused and abundant amount of clean energy resources. This includes solar power, wind energy, hydro power, geothermal energy, and more. Especially along the coasts and in more barren landscapes there is a lot of potential for developing these clean energy industries. Yes, there is a pricier up-front payment, but the long term benefits outweigh such costs. After more reliable, renewable energy sources have been tapped, clean development is more attainable, and individuals will depend less on non-renewable energy sources for activities which aggravate climate change.

Boykoff: Obama’s rhetoric of ‘clean energy’ vs. the reality of climate change:

I found this op ed piece published in the Tampa Tribune by four high ranking US military officials. They’re pushing clean energy and alternative fuels… that might really make a difference, I mean, with all the military’s clout and purchasing power.

Here’s an excerpt…

“The military knows climate change is happening and that our current energy posture is a growing threat to national security. Clean energy is a solution we must pursue.”

http://www2.tbo.com/news/opinion/2011/oct/09/vwopino1-why-we-must-support-clean-energy-in-us-ou-ar-270339/

The World’s Greenest Cities

Algae Converted to Butanol; Fuel Can Be Used In Automobiles:

A team of chemical engineers at the University of Arkansas has developed a method for converting common algae into butanol, a renewable fuel that can be used in existing combustible engines. The green technology benefits from and adds greater value to a process being used now to clean and oxygenate U.S. waterways by removing excess nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizer in runoff.
“We can make cars go,” said Jamie Hestekin, assistant professor and leader of the project. “Our conversion process is efficient and inexpensive.