True Progress

So much for the problems- what are some of the solutions?

A number of options exist or are being developed on the alternative energy front. Purely from an energy standpoint, renewable sources are more than capable of providing our energy needs; the issue at this point is refining our alternative energy technologies to the point where we can harness a significant fraction of that energy. Solar irradiance (the amount of solar energy that reaches the surface) is about 145 watts per square meter; when you take into account atmospheric variables, the usable amount of solar energy received for locations in the USA ranges from 4 to 7 kilowatt-hours per square meter per day for a flat-plate solar array. At the present, the maximum efficiency for solar power systems of any type is about 40%, though there are some technologies that promise even higher efficiencies. At 40%, that translates to 1.6 to 2.8 kilowatt-hours per square meter per day. Read the rest of this entry »

Sustainability has become a buzzword- it’s used in reference to energy policy, abiotic natural resources, and cultural practices. It’s also being used in reference to agricultural practices. Though we’ve improved on crop yields through modern farming methods, there are still ways in which we can increase our efficiencies while simultaneously providing a place for nature to thrive. Read the rest of this entry »