Discusses how biomass in the form of fuelwood, crop residues, and animal dung can be converted into fuels such as biogas and ethanol to replace or supplement fossil fuels. Argues for future decentralized, integrated biomass energy development. (TW)

Tropical forests cover 20 percent of the Earth's land surface, but they are rapidly disappearing, with some estimating the loss of 7.5 million hectares a year. This bulletin provides a set of key facts relating to this problem. It details: (1) factors involving the rate at which the forests are disappearing; (2) some of the effects of these losses…

This book was developed to highlight the risks that confront societies, and to indicate the most promising avenues for preemptive policies and actions. The document contains chapters on: (1) the emergence of change; (2) analyzing demographic factors; (3) assessing the future of urbanization; (4) reassessing nuclear power (including an analysis of…

Attempts to identify the need for support communication in water development projects in developing countries. Describes how the support communication process could be planned and implemented in ways that would enhance environmental quality. Focuses on water projects in the rural areas of developing nations. (TW)

This document presents the position that renewable energy sources offer a timely alternative to dwindling oil supplies and to environmentally damaging coal combustion, although public support and financial backing need to be strengthened. An expanded use of renewables and a greater commitment to energy efficiency are the most cost-effective and…

This document serves as a supplement to the World Conservation Strategy (WCS) and outlines some of the critical aspects of the interaction between human populations, natural resources, and social and economic conditions. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of planning with people, and on packaging conservation programs so they are more…

Describes how environmental problems in developing countries partly arise out of lack of development. Emphasizes that environmental education is critical under these conditions. Argues for the systematic integration of economic and environmental plans for various regions. (TW)

Two things make water a unique natural resource: (1) water is essential for human survival; and (2) the total amount of water in the world is constant. This document focuses on the increasingly difficult task of satisfying the collective thirst of people, industry, and agriculture without damaging the world's limited resources of fresh water. It…

This document summarizes the proceedings of an international conference on environmental education which was organized jointly by Unesco and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The conference attracted 300 participants and observers from 80 countries, including experts and representatives of 15 international and national…

Since the publication of the original report, entitled "Fiscal Profile of America's Public Schools, 1981-85, and Associated Energy Implications," the national school revenue picture reveals: (1) a decline in federal aid to education, (2) a decline in state fiscal capacity, (3) a reduction in the state-local portion of public l 826/827 sector…