The development of fuels from biomass can lead naturally to dispersed facilities that incorporate food or materials production (or both) with fuel production. The author analyzes possible systems based on sugarcane, corn, and guayule. (Author/MA)

Surveys energy consumption in the United States and explores the possibility of increasing the amount of energy obtained from biomass conversion (biologically produced energy). Economic and environmental concerns of biomass conversion processes are discussed. (CP)

Requirements for cleaner and more efficient engines have stimulated a search for alternatives to the conventional spark-ignition engine. So far, the defects of the alternative engines are clearer than the virtues. The following engines are compared: spark ignition, diesel, vapor-cycle, Stirling, and gas turbine. (Author/MA)

For more than a decade, the Chinese have been using biogas digesters to produce fuel for homes in rural areas. This article discusses the design, operation, and benefits of these digesters. This means of waste treatment helps improve sanitation, produce fertilizer, and save fossil fuels. (MA)

Estimates of energy demand in the future must be approached with caution; however, evidence strongly suggests that future energy demand is by no means predetermined and that low-demand futures are quite feasible both technically and economically. (Author/RE)

Measures public school transportation directors are taking to solve their current budget problems. (MLF)

In conjunction with the FreedomCAR (Cooperative Automotive Research) and Fuel Initiative, President George W. Bush has pledged nearly two billion dollars for fuel cell research. Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors have unveiled fuel cell demonstration vehicles, and all three of these companies have invested heavily in fuel cell research. Fuel cell…

A vexing modern conundrum is to be solved. The use of oil, gas, and coal is extremely short-lived as a historical phenomenon: a mere blink of an eye at a little more than 1% of total urban history of 10,000 years to-date. Yet current urban civilization is almost entirely based on it. And the fossil-fuel economy poses not only a massive security…

Provides a background biography of coal and its place in our national development. (Author/PEB)

Presented are six papers on water conservation which were presented at a conference in New Jersey. The first two papers present recommendations of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection on water conservation and a master plan for New Jersey's water supply needs. The following four papers discuss water conservation with water-saving…

This glossary of over 100 energy-related terms is intended to accompany the National Science Teachers Association's (NSTA) Fact Sheet on alternative energy technologies. Brief definitions of common concepts, principles, and expressions related to energy education are provided. (Author/CP)

Surveys the energy situation in terms of current demands and resources. Explains proposals contained in the Federal Energy Research and Development Administration (ERDA) plan for utilization of future sources of energy. The role of science teachers concerning energy education is discussed with suggestions for possible topics and instructional…

The water consumption requirements for a variety of energy options are presented, and comparative judgments drawn. Attention is focused on problems resulting from synthetic, gaseous, and liquid fuel production. Scenarios describing possible future levels of coal and electricity use are analyzed. They point to the importance of water supply…

Principles, methods, and materials for a laboratory experiment in the generation of methane gas as an alternative energy source are described and illustrated by an industrial arts professor and student for students in power and energy. (MF)

Proposes the development of community centers in which school children, parents, and homeowners can be educated in areas of energy conservation and alternative fuel sources. Provides brief passages on some of the most promising alternative fuels. (CP)