Biofuels have been considered to alleviate greenhouse emissions. The push has therefore been applauded by environmentalists. However, new studies show that the benefits of biofuels may not be what we hoped for. The new study by the journal Science claim that the use of biofuels increase global environmental cost. The destruction of natural ecosystems, and rain forests, so land can be converted to cropland, release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere when they are burned and plowed. Croplands also absorb far less carbon than rain forests.  read more »

For many consumers that support "Going Green", there are eateries which cater to their idealology. For example, Gusto Grilled Organics in Greenwhich Village, has been cerified organic under the Northeast Organic Farming Association of N.Y.. However, at 13 New York and Chicago restaurants, they have found other ways of going green. Although the menus may not translate into "Green" these establishments have found other ways to be considered Green". At Del Posto, biodisel trucks fueled by its used cooking oil bring ingredients from upstate and return with the restaurant's compost.  read more »

The oceans cover 70% of the earth's surface and researchers have found that no portion have been free from the power of human influence.  read more »

Go green has become a "Battle Cry" in many communities around the country. Unfortunately, currently, it is easier said then done. The challenges facing us include legal restrictions by states, constrained on budgets and people' unwillingness to change. For instance, a proposal in Providence to have police use four cylinder cars was rejected when police complain that they need more powerful engines to pursue criminals. In Cleveland, plans to retrofit a hot water plant had to be canceled because of lack of money.  read more »

The investigations of Joel Berger, a specialist in hoofed mammals, have helped to find ways to preserve them in the wild. One of the interesting behaviors he recently discovered raised the following question, Why did the moose go down the road?

Well if the moose lives in Yellowstone National Park, and is pregnant, the reason could be that they are trying to avoid their main predator, the grizzly bear. It has been observed that grizzly bears kill 50 to 90 percent of the newborn moose population. Since Grizzlies are afraid of humans, they avoid going near roads. In order to protect their young, the about to birth moose go where the grizzlies wont go, toward the roads.

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Most of us remember the never ending lines at the gas stations in the 70's. The outcry by the public for alternative sources of energy Then just as quickly, all is forgotten, as lines disappeared and prices for gas dropped. We hear the same clamour today, yet according to The Cambridge Energy Research Associates, unlike the 70's, this time it will not go away. The difference today is that global warming is seen as a threat to political security, as well as the environment. Especially with the growing economies of China and India, cheap and reusable sources of energy are vital.

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Dear Ronit:

I am in a new relationship and we recently had our first “tiff”.

Though I know we will not always agree, I was amazed by how convoluted and confusing the argument became. It seemed as if we were caught up in “you said” vs. “ I said” and each of us wanting to be heard and be right. After a while it got to a point that I had no idea what the original disagreement was about! It took us a day to work it out. Ultimately my girlfriend accepted responsibility, so we made up.  read more »

Is the preservation of biologically rich landscapes a losing battle? Some scientist fear that with an era of changing climates our best efforts to protect these areas may be just a waste of time. As global warming continues to contribute to higher water temperature and the rise of sea level, current efforts on the way to maintain salmon runs in Pacific Northwest streams, restoration of fresh water flow of the Everglades and the preservation of some fragile coastal barrier islands are being reconsidered. Uncertainty surrounding the rate of climate change is making it more difficult to determine what is the best course of action.  read more »

Ever think of using kites to help haul a 10,000 ton freighters? How about using sun-baked roads to heat houses and offices or maybe using the body heat of daily commuters to warm an office building?

That is the kind of drive to innovate and succeed that spurs an economy to revitalize, and spurs a nation onwards towards excellence. I am just sorry that it was so long in coming and sorrier that there is still so little of it here in America.  read more »

Like many of you, I first saw and heard Obama in the 2004 Democratic Convention. His speech inspired me at a time when I was desperately seeking someone in the political arena I can admire and respect. I vividly remember thinking this man is visionary. His message of unity at a time when our country was so badly divided by the Bush administration was a breath of fresh air. Right there and then I thought he is destined to become United State’s first black president.  read more »