 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Oil and Energy
Liquid Coal, Oil Shale and Tar Sands
Renewable, Cleaner Fuels
Links
References
Oil and Energy
Oil has always been an important priority in United States as it attempts to fulfil the energy needs of the world’s largest economy. However, political instability in oil producing nations, high price of oil and pollution concerns have forced United States to look into other alternatives such as liquid coal, oil shale and tar sands.
This is a bad policy choice. Although we need to reduce our dependence on oil, the law makers ought to reconsider giving out subsidies or other incentives to programs involving liquid coal, oil shale and tar sands. Political and Industry leaders are leading us blindly on a costly and dangerous path1.
Liquid Coal, Oil Shale and Tar Sands
Many oil companies are involved in engineering these new technologies. Although exorbitant oil prices are making such sources more cost competitive, massive spending is still required to develop them. These companies have tried very hard to lobby for subsidies and incentives for their research, at the expense of taxpayers.
Also, the vast amounts of energy needed to make these fuels means that overall emissions from every gallon could double or even triple. Digging fuels for our gas tanks would have terrible impacts on landscape and local communities. It will also take up extremely scarce water supplies in different areas.
Renewable, Cleaner Fuels
One potential solution is to use renewable cleaner fuels. We can moderate demand, use our energy resources more efficiently, and commercialize cleaner, more environmentally responsible transportation fuels and technologies.
Some recommendations include:
- Setting the bar for substitute fuels
- Deploying more fuel efficient technologies and manage travel demand
- Offering consumers more choices and offer incentives to use them.2
Links
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) is dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as a means of promoting both economic prosperity and environmental protection.
The Center for a Livable Future promotes policies to protect health, the environment and sustainable living
CREST provides information about energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable technology information and connections.
Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) provides multidisciplinary research and development of innovative energy and environmental technologies for the protection of air, water and soil.
References
1Natural Resource Defence Council. A Responsible Energy Plan for America page. http://www.nrdc.org/air/energy/rep/repinx.asp>. Accessed Sept. 6, 2007.
2Natural Resource Defence Council. Driving It Home: Choosing the Right Path for Fuelling North America's Transportation Future page. http://www.nrdc.org/energy/drivingithome/contents.asp>. Accessed Sept. 6, 2007.
Last updated on September 22, 2007
Home | Resume | Portfolio | Coursework | Policy Area