Your Questions About Green Living

Donna asks…

How do I create a personalized news search on Yahoo and combine more than one source but not all sources?

I would like to create an RSS feed that focuses on one keyword (focused on alternative energy) with information from several select sources (i.e. Business Week, Forbes and Reuters). However, the current Yahoo new search function either gives you a million sources (with many too tiny for me) or you can limit it to one source (which is too confining). I eventually want to add this RSS feed to our website – http://www.cutoilimports.org

Thanks in advance.

The Expert answers:

It doesn’t seem to be possible to get the News RSS feed to be gotten from more than one source.

I’ve tried various incantations, but none have worked.

Nice idea though!

William asks…

Is Government getting out of the way so that Natural Gas companies can provide us with an alternative to gas?

The Natural gas companies are moving ahead with their plans. They told Obama and the others in Washington to mind their own business and to stay out of the way. If the Government doesn’t screw it up we should have real alternative energy vehicles that actually work. Yes they will build natural gas stations. Remember the piping is already there in all of our houses. All they have to do is tap into it when creating the Natural Gas stations. Its a real plan if you ask me.

I love it and yes this is exactly what Capitalism is all about. Imagine all the jobs and money that something like this will provide for every day Americans. We don’t have to fight for oil anymore and we can take our time building electrical alternatives while still enjoying clean air right now.

I say its a win win situation.

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/52171706-78/energy-government-western-gas.html.csp

All this new energy and getting all of those who are unemployed back to work. Should help us pay off our debt. This is an opportunity we cannot let go. That is what I like about Ron Paul he wants Government to get out of the way. After all he says it all the time.
@sjesusreality- I don’t own the stocks yet but if Government moves out of the way I will.

The Expert answers:

No but they are going to be pushed out of the way I hope as natural gas is the answer at hand now

Sandy asks…

So I read in the news how we are all driving less and using less gas. This is good, right? So what are some?

members of congress trying to do, persuade congress to raise gas taxes as much as $.50 per gallon. Their reason, not enough taxes coming in to pay for road repairs and improvement. I guess they don’t understand the connection between higher gas prices and fewer miles being driven. Why don’t they use some of that bail-out money to get serious about alternative sources of energy? Their other suggestion was more toll roads or another tax on total miles being driven. What are your ideas on this subject.

The Expert answers:

I saw this article in our local paper this morning and thought “oh joy, they aren’t getting the taxes off the gas tax, now they have to find a new revenue source!” There is a study being conducted in our county currently where cars are being outfitted with gizmos that track how many miles are driven and at what times of day. The study is intended to see whether it would be worth it to charge car owners taxes based on the miles driven. I think that would only drive demand down lower as people find ways to avoid driving by taking public transportation, working at home, riding scooters or bicycles and hooking up with friends and neighbors to join errand trips. I totally agree with you, we need other ways to power our cars that make us less dependent on foreign oil as well as that don’t affect air quality in the way gas does. (I lived in LA on red flag days, pollution there is so bad kids can’t have recess.) I think in this economy, any new tax is going to be met with resistance from the taxpayers who just bailed out poorly run corporations will billions of dollars. But, using the bailout money to jump start innovation in alternative energy might be met with more enthusiasm than a gas tax.

Chris asks…

Have the “green energy” programs being pushed by governments actually been a front for the Mafia?

Headline:

Mafia arrests reveal mob was ‘going green’

Police in Italy have seized Mafia-linked assets worth $1.9 billion – the biggest mob haul ever – in an operation revealing that the crime group was trying to “go green” by laundering money through alternative energy companies.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/italy/8002496/Mafia-arrests-reveal-mob-was-going-green.html

Does it make you wonder how much of a Mafia kick back politicians and scientists are getting for “Global Warming”

The Expert answers:

Absolutely

Susan asks…

What’s some good science news?

I need to write 2 current events for science class. What a good topic to write them on? I really want them to be on green energy/alternative fuels(<3) but it needs to be something from the news. It doesn’t have to be totally recent though.

The Expert answers:

When 2011 comes and then 23 years later in December all the planets in the solar system will be in an exact line and your able to see all the planets except Pluto 🙁

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Your Questions About Green Living

Carol asks…

What is Yahoo doing to become more sustainable?

What kind of things Yahoo is investing in to make the firm more sustainable?
Roughly, how much does it cost to invest in making the firm sustainable.

The Expert answers:

The stock will only rise if Yahoo lets Microsoft purchase them. I anticipate Yahoo will be swallowed by the colossal giant Microsoft.

Lisa asks…

Would paying people low wages be socially sustainable and why?

Let’s say migrants working in the primary industry such as farming are happy to work at low wages, would this be socially sustainable and why?
If its not socially sustainable what it is?

Thanks!

The Expert answers:

Sure – There have always been poor people working for low wages so it is sustainable..
Mexican migrant men manage to be motivated for many years..
P

James asks…

What level would be sustainable for our human growth rate and why?

What level would be sustainable for our human growth rate and why?

The Expert answers:

If you merely want to maintain current standards of living, then economic growth equal to population growth will do. If you want to continue to improve living standards, then you will have to increase the rate of growth faster than population.

Donald asks…

Can we have a sustainable environment (world) is we do not first create sustainable relationships with each ot?

Can we have a sustainable environment (world) is we do not first create sustainable relationships with each other? What might those look like? Can you give an example?

The Expert answers:

Yes but not on a grand scale, obviously national parks exist and we could conceivably get rid of plastic and suburbs, but getting everyone to live in megacities is another problem that’ll be tough to tackle. Unfortunately, the world is spiraling downward into a new manmade extinction era, all the big cats might be gone by 2020, and once the top predators go, the ecosystem is toast (not to mention boring). I hope we can save the lions, tigers, and bears but we got a long road ahead, and we dont have the cash to waltz into africa and say “hey you, poor farmer guy, you cant plant these crops here, youll have to starve so the lions can eat the gazelle that graze here. And hey you masai cattle guy and rich hunter guy, stop killing those lions theres less than 23,000 left, you probly got more ants in ur house then ther are lions left in the world.” well, combined we have the cash but most people just dont care about tigers and lions like i do, they just say farewell, have fun with the dodo birds in heaven

Thomas asks…

How and why is MDF wood and Jelutong Wood sustainable?

How and why is MDF wood and Jelutong Wood sustainable?
What makes it sustainable?

The Expert answers:

MDF stands for Medium Density Fiberboard. The fibers are from pine and other softwoods which grow faster than hardwoods such as oak.

Because softwoods grow relatively fast it’s considered sustainable.

The majority of the material that goes into MDF is waste product from other processes, so it can be also considered green.

MDF is made of wood pulp which is formed, heated, compressed and cut into the final shape. Wood pulp can be made from recycled sawdust, wood chips, scrap from other wood processes, and from trees not suitable for other purposes. When you buy MDF you can find out which manufacturer makes it, and how much of the material is recycled and how much comes from standing trees.

Hope this helps,

Alan

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Your Questions About Green Living

Sharon asks…

where can i buy vegan leather in chicago and surrounding areas?

im a furniture designer just starting out in the business. i design animal/eco friendly furniture and accessories. ive been doing lots of research, sketching and some building but now that ive come to the leather look in my collection ive hit a road block. please let me know what you know. all answers will be greatly appreciated.
thanks,
c.
everything needs to be eco and animal friendly
maybe i should put leather in quotations.
people would be disappointed to find that i use REAL leather since id be advertising as an animal friendly designer.

The Expert answers:

All imitation leather is plastic of one kind or another as far as I know. It is up to you to decide if plastic is more eco friendly than animal skins. In my opinion, animal skins are much more eco friendly, but of course animals have to die for that. But death is totally natural and eco friendly. Nature is cruel, although city dwellers are mostly sheltered from that fact.

Paul asks…

What do you think of my development?

As my last question http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=ApwXTJYYq1hVoKkSFKR_xOAazKIX;_ylv=3?qid=20101022050936AA1dp7g

#1 I mean when I get ecofriendly furniture I’ll not throw away the other, It’ll go to charity.

#2 Yes we do have lots of sun. And I don’t really care of taxes.

#3 I agree now that taking down a building to make a prefabricated won’t be very clean.

#4 It’s not that it need replacing I just need to desalinate more water.

#5 The rule of forbidden disposable cups and plate ok. But I’ll think of the cups cause why not cool the drinks in fridges with everything else instead of cooling some things and the rest with Ice.

#6 When I meant a electricity system I meant the one with putting the key in the slot so when the key is with him in the lobby or saw nothing will work in the room.

#7 What I meant about food I’ll have International food I just mean I don’t want to buy imported food.

#8 About the materials. After I get the materials made of organic cotton everything I have will be send to either charity, sale or recycling.

And and of course I’ll do it all one by one I know if all is done at ones there is no going back.

The Expert answers:

You sound developed, but you could be better by becoming vegetarian or vegan.

Joseph asks…

THE USE OF BEESWAX AND OTHER NATURAL WAX TO BE USED AS FINISHING COMPOUND FOR FURNITURE FINISHINGS LIKE WOOD?

can beeswax to be used as buffing compound for wood surfaces on table tops as well as rattan peel/skin used in hand weaving material for furniture like wicker rattan chairs/baskets wares and other decor home items. the purpose of this use of natural wax is to avoid in using chemical solvents in furniture finishings like top coatings. and to promote GREEN FURNITURE IN THE MAKING AND ECOFRIENDLY.

The Expert answers:

Beeswax is meant to be used as a lubricant not a polish,min-wax makes very outstanding products

Michael asks…

How can I dispose of old cutlery safely?

I have recently been completely refurbishing my home. I have managed to sell old furniture and carpets etc in newspapers and online, and most other things have gone for re-cycling. Now; the kitchen! All of my old crockery, casserole dishes etc, I have smashed into small pieces, ready to use as drainage in plantpots in the garden….so, most of the stuff has been disposed of in an ecofriendly way. My problem now is, how do I dispose of old cutlery, particularly things like carving knives, bread knives etc safely?

The Expert answers:

Hi, you sound really busy and good on you for not just dumping it. Charity shops will be more than happy to take them or a scrap metal dealer, art college, I’ve seem some amazing mobiles made from twisted and bent cutlery

David asks…

What is a good, creative, environmental-friendly way of disposing of pet waste?

I’m about to start up a small pet-waste disposal business, and i want to do everything with a twist-make it as ecofriendly as possible.

I know I can make a cheap compost outlined on this site:
http://www.plantea.com/dog-waste-compost.htm

but it says to sprinkle Septic Starter and water to help decompose wastes back into the soil.

Is Septic Starter ecofriendly?

What else could I do besides double-bagging the doodoo and tossing it in a trashcan?

I don’t think every customer would like me digging a hole in their yard for a compost, although that would be ideal! lol.

I also will be providing yard treatment for fleas and ticks, as well as replacing stains, and treating indoor/outdoor furniture, carpeting, hardwood flooring, decks, etc. with all ecofriendly product. Also to include dog-walk/jogging and providing all-natural dog baths with ecofriendly shampoos and conditioners.

Thanks.

The Expert answers:

Bring the poop into the house and flush it down the toilet.

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Your Questions About Green Living

Carol asks…

Whats the cost of 100% renewable energy for an average home?

I live in Australia and Im wondering how much would it cost (in australian dollars) to have all my household energy come from a renewable source?

The Expert answers:

Hi Danrad. I’m also in Australia and do get 100% of my energy from renewable sources.

There’s basically two ways of doing it. The first is VERY easy but will never pay itself off, and the second is more expensive and involved to set up but will eventually save you money.

Okay, the first is to simply buy 100% green energy. Very easy, as all you need to do is to ring your energy provider and ask them to switch you over. Origin has probably got the best green energy. 100% renewable energy like this costs around 5c more per KW/h, and an ‘average’ Aussie home uses about 6,000KW/h per year, so it should cost something like $300 per year to be 100% renewable. Easy and cheap. But the catch is, you keep paying that money to stay 100% renewable.

There’s a lot more to Green energy than that too of course, like the politics involved (the government’s climate policy that was rejected last week would’ve pretty much killed off any environmental benefit of green energy…), so you’d want to look into it a bit more before signing up.

The second is by generating your own energy, and again there’s really two main types – Grid connected and off-grid supply.

A grid connect in effect trades energy to and from the grid to get the overall net 100%, and to generate 6,000KW/h per year you’d need to get something like a 4KW system which would cost about $45,000 without rebates (the best rebate we’re ever likely to see ended a couple of months ago, and the new rebate system is FAR inferior from both a financial and environmental perspective). With some rebates you’d get that down to around $38,000 or so. This will save an ‘average’ house about $1,000 per year, and with a Feed-in Tariff (assuming your State has one yet), you’ll earn about $1,500 per year with that, for a total annual benefit of something like $2,500. After 15 years the system will be paid off.

The bottom line for this system is that a grid-connect system should NOT be fitted to an ‘average’ house from a financial point of view. That house is MUCH better off spending money halving its consumption first and then spending $20k or so instead.

An off-grid system needs batteries instead of a grid connection, and will cost about $60,000 – $70,000 mainly because of the batteries needed. This sounds like a lot but is often far cheaper than getting powerlines into a farmhouse in a remote area. The used to be a $25,000 rebate available across Australia for this, but that’s only for WA now.

Hope that helps

Ruth asks…

I would like to know industry recognized online courses in green / renewable energy?

I would like to know industry recognized online courses in green / renewable energy . Would like to explore my options in renewable energy firms post the course. I am in my mid 30’s and have under grad degree in engineering.

The Expert answers:

SEI has excellent online classes that are ISPQ certified. Http://www.solarenergy.org/

David asks…

How and where to start a thesis related to sustainability and renewable energy?

I want to do my Bachelor’s thesis in the field of Sustainability and Renewable Energy in an economical perspective (e.g. how to apply it in our society without given up something) . But how to start?

The Expert answers:

What we are envisaging is:
all that is required- from fur, fuel, to fun, entertainments are self sufficient. It is possible in an understanding community, with proper planning for all – from animal breeding, herbs, crops, for computers, contact lenses, etc. Etc… , as in the old civilizations. While those generations used hardly a few k calories/day/person, & the population was not much, our set up, with much more population, mostly illiterate, uneducated
[ educated world only contributes even now for the NON SUSTAINABILITY, AND ECOLOGICAL DESTRUCTIONS, & IMBALANCES ! ] , set up, the sustainability CONCEPT is a tough thing to attain. Youngsters like you only can save whatever is available now for the next generations !

Donna asks…

What would be the best Engineering speciality to take to be involved with renewable/ alternative energy?

I am currently in a pre-engineering program and am really interested in renewable energy such as solar, windmill, and the like. How would I get involved in projects likes this? Mechanical or maybe electrical? I was thinking maybe nuclear, but I dont like chemistry that much. I am also aware of some schools that offer renewable degrees but there are none in my area.

The Expert answers:

Chemistry is fun- you get to blow stuff up! Keep away from the nukes though, we don’t want to blow one of them up. Electrical is good. Someone also has to design new systems for installations on houses/businesses.

Robert asks…

When you hear renewable energy, what is the first type that comes to mind?

There are many sources of renewable energy, and I am partial to one kind because I work in the industry(I won’t say which one until I pick best answer-because I don’t want to alter the results, but I was wondering what type comes to mind first for most.

Thanks for your answers.

The Expert answers:

I think of solar. I live in a sunny location with little wind. I also get some of my power from hydorelectric, but I think we have tapped most of those resources already. I also live not far from a geothermal plant that was previously shut down and has recently been reopened and is generating electriciy again.

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Your Questions About Green Living

John asks…

What do I do with my girlfriend!!?

I have a problem, i just got together with my girlfriend, who has been a long time friend, with only one issue, in october im heading to Africa to do charity work ( Which im pretty thrilled about) But the problem is
a) Im going to be there for five months with no access to communication
b) She is REALLY unsupportive of any of my environmental/charity efforts.

Im fifteen, and its getting really tought balancing what i really want to do with my life, and my love life. She always makes me feel guilty when i go to plant trees or have to coach my little kids baseball team, cause she wants me to spend time with her, when i already spend heaps of time doing things with her. I’ve already given up two of my projects to spend more time with her..so its got me a bit stuck.

I guess ive got to the point where im wondering if girls would even like a girl who has a lot of stuff on their plate already. Do you think i would make myself more appealing by dropping the volunteer work?
Zellparis- Well, im glad that youre thinking about feeding the hungry…lol 😛

The Expert answers:

Find her a nice guy and go do your charity work.

Betty asks…

Blah, girlfriend problems…?

I have a problem, i just got together with my girlfriend, who has been a long time friend, with only one issue, in october im heading to Africa to do charity work ( Which im pretty thrilled about) But the problem is
a) Im going to be there for five months with no access to communication
b) She is REALLY unsupportive of any of my environmental/charity efforts.

Im fifteen, and its getting really tought balancing what i really want to do with my life, and my love life. She always makes me feel guilty when i go to plant trees or have to coach my little kids baseball team, cause she wants me to spend time with her, when i already spend heaps of time doing things with her. I’ve already given up two of my projects to spend more time with her..so its got me a bit stuck.

I guess ive got to the point where im wondering if girls would even like someone who has a lot of stuff on their plate already. Do you think i would make myself more appealing by dropping the volunteer work?

The Expert answers:

Ok,so u have a girlfriend problem. 🙂
We should’nt just look at it from ur point of view,i think it’s important to look at it from her point of view too.
I honestly think she likes u alot,which makes her want to be with u all the time.She wants to spend all her time with u and this is normal! The way charity work is important to you,spending time with u is important to her.
Your lucky she’s actually telling u,most girls just get jealous and then blow after a month and bring all this stuff up.

You need to talk to her and tell her what ur projects are and what ur going to do and when.And then,mention how u dropped 2 projects for her already and how charity work is important to u.

If she doesnt like it,tell her u have no choice,if she understands,then she is really an understanding girl and u really dont have to dump her ryt away.

Sandy asks…

Has the whole climate change issue about to fall apart?

“There is no way costly mitigation measures will have a meaningful effect on the climate”
By Professor Will Alexander

An extremely serious situation has developed. The whole climate change issue is about to fall apart. Heads will roll.

I have followed the observation theory route. After a prolonged and diligent study of one of the largest and most comprehensive hydrometeorological databases in the world, I have been unable to detect the postulated changes in the hydrometeorological processes against the background of natural variability.
I also have an extensive knowledge of natural environmental conditions in southern Africa in all its moods. I have been unable to detect any of the alarmist claims of desertification or damage to the indigenous plant or animal species claimed by climate change scientists.

Over the years I have demonstrated a predictable periodicity in hydrological processes and its synchronous linkage with sunspot activity. Together with four co-authors we have gone even further and related these linkages to the sun�s wobble as it moves along its trajectory through galactic space.

This movement results in changes in the earth to the sun distance and corresponding variations in received solar energy. We were able to demonstrate that these variations in received solar energy were considerably larger than the variations due to greenhouse gas emissions.

Not only do our studies completely negate the claims made by climate change scientists, but we can demonstrate with a high degree of assurance that all the proposed measures to limit greenhouse gas emissions will be an exercise in futility.

There is no way whatsoever that the costly mitigation measures will have a meaningful effect on the world’s climate.

The Expert answers:

Climate is altered by human activity. This is simply basic earth science, and few dispute this. How much? No one knows, and this is the kicker. There are other processes that occur naturally which contribute heavily to the Earth’s climate. The interaction between these natural systems and human activity is worth studying and debating. It’s possible that human activity is overall not the major contributor to climate change. It’s also possible that human activity is doing alot of damage. However, any attempt to minimize our “footprint” while utilizing better technology that in the long run requires less resource input is not futile in my opinion.

Thomas asks…

Need a creative gift idea!!!!!?

So here’s the deal my teacher is leaving because of health issues and she is the very best teacher anyone can ask for. I really want to get her a gift that shows how much i loved her. One thing you should know is that she is very environmental ,into saving the world, child labor, very into Africa and everything is basically eco in our class. So I can’t really buy anything from the store because it will create too much waste and we will have no idea if it was made from slave labor or not. What I was thinking of was a clay scene of our classroom (I have a job working with clay)with all of her Africa pictures and posters everywhere, the kids and a few important details, or I was think a large clay tie dye peace sign that says #1 teacher or something. I’m in grade 8 and she is leaving on Tuesday I could really use lots of creative idea on what to make fore her. Thanks in advanced!!

The Expert answers:

I like the idea of the clay tie-dye peace sign 🙂 If you do this one, you’ll be able to choose what size you’ll be able to work with in time to give it to her – plus it’s not too complicated, meaning you can add more details without worrying about how long it’ll take for the shape. The model of the classroom sounds incredibly detailed, but if you have the time it could still work out great. Whichever you do, if the model is big enough you could include everyone’s names from your class in some way (maybe engraved or painted) and some sort of thankyou message. I don’t really know what else to suggest, but if you can find an eco-friendly bag to present it in (you could also decorate that, maybe with help from your classmates) then it saves on worrying about where your wrapping paper comes from or how many trees you’ve killed. Good luck!

William asks…

Opinions needed! What kind of career should I look for?

I love volunteering. I love travel, hate schedules. Global, political, environmental, and humanitarian affairs interest me. I really want to go to Africa, and I’m especially interested in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the issues they’re currently facing. I’m interested in the United Nations, but I don’t want to be stuck behind a desk all day, until I get promoted, only to be stuck behind another desk all day, but one in a larger room with a better view. I’m interested in conservation and animal welfare as well. So what are some good options for me? I really want to be based in Africa or South America, either dealing with endangered animal welfare or humanitarian affairs.
And since it’s probably relevant, I’m 17 and a senior in high school. I’m looking to take at least a year off to hopefully volunteer in Africa. I’m thinking about going with VFP (UN volunteer organization), but I’m open to other organizations. If you know of any, please let me know!

The Expert answers:

Talk to your counselor and/or take a career test from a local community college, most are free tests to help you figure out want you want to do. Dont freak out, you’re young and have plenty of time to find a concentration in life.

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Your Questions About Green Living

James asks…

Where are the green jobs?

I want to work in something that helps the environment like alternative energy. What kinds of jobs or careers can I get into that would involve this? I know green technology is now becoming a priority but I’m not sure if there are jobs related to that yet.

The Expert answers:

Solar panels.

Helen asks…

What are some careers in Alternative Energy?

I’m about to be a Junior in High school and I have been searching around for jobs in my interests. I think that a job related to researching or designing things that create Alternative energy (solar/air power, etc) This is an engineering degree, right? Can someone explain these job opportunities, descriptions, and if you are in this field, great! I’ve always been interested in teaching, but I’d like a job that pays a little more than that. (it’s around 50,000 avg. in PA).

I also heard that most engineering jobs require a lot of experience to even land the job; how does one go about getting experience when almost everyone wants that experience in the first place…?

Thanks for reading, thanks a lot for answering!

p.s. I’d ask our guidance counselor but she is always very busy and has a bad reputation for not helping students…

The Expert answers:

Okay this will sound lame …. But google it- there are so many I can’t remember. In addition to the Alternative energy jobs ( like solar/air power) there are Environmental Gov. Jobs , Permaculture ( you can take classes in this and they are about two weeks long – you earn certificates then its up to you to go out and set up classes- good money if you can manage yourself well) Spend some time doing research and grab a couple of mags like- green living – there are a lot of tips in there. I wish I could tell you more I just got excited to talk about it then drew a blank

Betty asks…

Does the stimulus package include any provision for the Pickens Plan?

From what I have read, the Pickens Plan would address three issues near and dear to the hearts of the liberals: jobs, alternative energy, and reduced pollution. The construction of expanded natural gas infrastructure and massive wind farms would seem to be a logical choice for massive government expenditures. More so than Planned Infanticide, er, Parenthood and ACORN, at least.
Donny G, you’re right. ACORN doesn’t get a dime. They, and “low income advocacy groups” get 41.9 billion dimes, according to the New York Times. $4.19 billion to a group being investigated for voter fraud in 12 states. It’s a proud day for America today.

The Expert answers:

I just haven’t had the opporunity to peruse ALL 600+ pages of pork.

Amusing that all the Republicans and 11 Democrats voted against the stimulus plan in the House… Seems there ARE some Democrats hoping for fiscal responsibility.

And LAUGHING at the young lady with the spelling issues who claims that Abortion is “the law of the land”… It doesn’t mean that the GOVERNMENT has to pay for it !!

YOU are correct though that The Pickens Plan is a PERFECT example of what SHOULD be in the Stimulus Plan.

Along with removing MFN status from China, Repealing NAFTA, and opening markets with Cuba.

Michael asks…

I was thinking of entering an Alternative Energy field when I get a job, and…?

I was wondering, what is the best field to study in?

I want to start a company [hopefully semi-successful] that produces a variety of alternative energy products. The main products that I want to provide would be wind power, solar, and bio-fuels; and a whole slew of other alternative energy devices [Piezoelectric floor mats come to mind, as well as ANYTHING else that uses alternative energy. I’m trying to go for a “jack of all trades” type thing.]; as well as technologies that simply use LESS energy. I wanted to get a doctorate in whichever field would be best for this scenario. Using this URL:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_fields_of_doctoral_studies_in_the_United_States#Mathematics

can anyone tell me which of the fields on this list would be the best for me? Please, could you organize it into a “top 5” or “top 10” list.

Also, would it be possible to go for two doctorates at one time? What about three? [I don’t want to know if it would be easy. I don’t care how hard it will be. I will literally work myself to death for the 6-13 years required to get a doctorate, no matter how hard it will be. I just want to know if it is physically possible [without doing poorly in the classes because of not having enough time to do homework and studying]].

Finally, could someone try and go for three master’s degrees all at once? How about three to four bachelors degrees [all at once]?

The Expert answers:

I think it’s great that you want to work in alternative energy. It is a great field to get into, especially with people turning to alternative energy sources, from hybrid cars to wind energy.

I don’t have a top 5 or 10 list for you, but one of the fastest growing sources of energy in the world is winder energy. It provides clean, renewable electricity that is both economical and environmentally friendly The Bureau of Labor Statistics has estimated that wind energy production increased by 21 percent in 2007 alone.

As for multiple doctorates, bachelors and master’s degrees, I would think about why you were wanting to accomplish all of these at once and what you are hoping to get out of it. I had friends in college that double majored in a few fields, it’s not uncommon, especially if there is overlap in some of the core classes that you take.

The best thing that you can do it talk to an academic adviser at school and tell them of your aspirations and see if they can provide you direction, after all, that is what they are paid for.

Best of luck to you!

Robert asks…

I want to work in the energy field, how do I get there?

I’ve got a Bachelor’s degree in economics, but I think my dream job is in the energy field. I’d love to evaluate alternative energy technologies (sort of cost-benefit or efficiency analysis type work) or something else that is involved with alternative energy. Am I dreaming? Is there much demand for economists in this field? (What if I got a masters degree in Operations Research)

The Expert answers:

What about getting an EE degree?

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Your Questions About Green Living

Donald asks…

What are the conservative views on todays environmental issues?

The Expert answers:

They believe it’s nothing more than a conspiracy to take their money away. It’s really no different than any other political subject.

Betty asks…

What do you think is the main environmental concern today? and What are the possible solutions to the issues?

I am a journalists working for an environment magazine and would want to know the main concerns of people to be given importance. Kindly cooperate with me and let me know anything you want to bring to light.

The Expert answers:

The main environmental concern of the 21st century is greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which are now higher than they have ever been since humans have inhabited the earth. The earth is just beginning to warm in response, but if we do not correct the situation, no other environmental problems will matter.

We already possess the means to regulate the atmosphere, and we know of 15 or 16 existing technologies, any 7 or 8 of which, implemented during the next half century, will keep temperatures from rising out of bounds.

The earth’s temperature is the huge environmental problem of today, but a solvable one.

John asks…

Control the world population and all the environmental problems will vanish.Agree?

I feel the reason for all the environmental issues today is uncontrolled human breeding.Then why are our world leaders shy away from it.The term Popuation Control has become a taboo phrase and all are afraid even to mention it! But, that is the panacea for all the environmental disasters.

The Expert answers:

False.

You have to control, or preferably eliminate, world prosperity, not population, if you want to remove environmental problems as a variable. Without prosperity, population will eventually control itself. It’s people successfully trying to make money that are causing all the problems.

Steven asks…

What is your religion? What is your stance on the environmental issues facing the world today?

The Expert answers:

Buddhist.
The issue is that the developed world want to stop environmental degredation by stopping development of the un-developed countries without undoing damage they have done. It is not enough to say I have taken everything I need and will now stop and I require everybody else to stop also. This is a purely selfish approach which is destined to fail.
What should be happening is that the developed world should be saying “I have done wrong by adversely effecting the worlds environment and I will take steps to undo all of the wrong that I have done.”

Carol asks…

What issues in today’s world can unite world leaders into a community of positive action?

One that I can think of is environmental issues like global warming.

The Expert answers:

Destroying the U.S. War machine.

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Your Questions About Green Living

David asks…

Which internship should I go for?

I am a construction management major and had an internship two years ago for an international general contractor. This summer I studied abroad/did research on renewable energy. Anyways, what do you all think?

1) Approach contractors for internship in exchange for school credits

2) Apply for the Port of _____ in the Civil Engineering department (meet their requirements and they pay at least $12 for 20 hours week, but I have an average gpa).

The Expert answers:

Which would you prefer to do? Is the money from a paid job a big influencing factor?

Which do you, your professors and your parents think would give you the best work experience and let you learn the most? In other words which is likely to be best in the long run?

Do you have an opportunity to talk to people from both workplaces before you decide?

James asks…

Do some people think it is not the role of the federal government to protect it citizens?

Do they want to abolish all government regulatory agencies ?

Partial list:
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Army Corps of Engineers

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF)

Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC)

Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)

Consumer Product Safety Commission

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Drug Enforcement Administration

Employment and Training Administration (ETA)

Employment Standards Administration (ESA)

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

Farm Credit Administration (FCA)

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Federal Deposit Insurance Commission (FDIC)

Federal Election Commission (FEC)

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EREN)

Federal Highway Administration (FHA)

Federal Maritime Commission (FMC)

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AuLht8NJHbkqdMf4sdbH.4Xsy6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20100314074421AAS5eSh

The Expert answers:

Most of them are there to protect us against something that doesn’t always have our best interests at heart. Big Business and it’s products and services.

Michael asks…

Do you think that a resorce based economy will awaken humanity spiritually and allow us to become more?

liberated spiritually and creative and flourish more.

It’s useless to criticize the culture without providing alternatives. The Venus Project proposes plans for social change that work toward a peaceful and sustainable global civilization. It outlines an alternative social design where human rights are not just paper proclamations, but a way of life. The Venus Project has a vision of what the future can be if we apply what we already know to achieve a sustainable world civilization. It calls for a scientific redesign of our culture in which war, poverty, hunger, debt, and unnecessary human, suffering are viewed as not only avoidable, but unacceptable. Anything less will result in a disastrous continuation of the problems inherent in today’s world.

Simply stated, a resource-based economy focuses on resources rather than money, and provides an equitable distribution thereof in a humane and efficient manner. It is a system in which goods and services are available without the use of money, credit, barter, debt, or servitude.

The first objective is to eliminate scarcity. A resource-based economy overcomes scarcity by using renewable sources of energy, plus computerized automated manufacturing and inventory. It would design safe energy-efficient cities with advanced transportation systems, and would provide universal health care and more relevant education.
The aim of this new social design is to encourage an incentive system based on human and environmental concerns, and to avoid the shallow and self-centered goals of individual wealth, property, and power. These new incentives would help people evolve self-fulfillment and creativity, both materially and spiritually.

http://www.thezeitgeistmovement.com/joomla/index.php?Itemid=50

The Expert answers:

I think the liberated spirituality will naturally evolve a resource based economy. You can’t have change without a change of mind and heart first.

Every major revolution or shift in human evolution was preceded by a paradigm shift in thinking first.

Thomas asks…

Can some edit my essay. who is the most influential african american. what info can i add?

Barack Obama, vying to become the first black presidential nominee, is the most influential African American today. Currently he is the only serving African American senator representing his state of Illinois. Barack Obama was born to a Kenyan father and an American mother. In his early adulthood, Barack Obama worked as a community organizer, helping 150,000 African American register to vote. Rejecting high paying corporate jobs, Obama worked with churches, Chicago residents to set up job training programs for the unemployed and after school programs for school children. Obama, also was a civil rights lawyer, who helped end employment and housing discrimination. His track record is an indication that he has worked hard for equal rights.
As President, Obama will represent people of all colors: Blacks, Latinos, Asians, Native Americans because we all share the same values and face the same problems. Day to day, hard working American families are working more for lower pay. Not to mention that average Americans are having a tougher time: Inflation increasing, price of gasoline skyrocketing, college tuition rising and healthcare cost increasing. These are universal issues every day Americans are facing in these tough times. Throughout his campaign, Obama has the solutions to ease the burdens off the American people: He will offer universal healthcare to millions of uninsured families, lower tuition cost by offering $4,000 tuition credit, invest in renewable energy and give tax cuts to the poor and middle class families.
Not only does Obama have the support of the African American communities, he also has the support of the majority of white voters as well. What makes Obama more impressive as a person is that he has the power to bring people together for the common good. Obama has a wide coalition of black and white voters. He has shown that he can win predominately white states like Iowa which has 2.5% black population. Also, he has the amazing ability to attract young voters to the polls, which past candidates have fail to do so. The voters have voted for Obama because he has a good vision for American for years to come.
Barack Obama has a very good chance at becoming the first African American President. If this happens, he would break all barriers and help end discrimination and racism. His symbolic Presidency would give a chance for African Americans and minorities to believe they could do whatever they dream of regardless of skin color. The world will see that the United States has come a long way from the segregation of the 1960’s to electing their the Black President three decades later. Obama has also serves as a role model for kids across America because they see him as someone who beat the odds.
I am voting for Barack Obama because I see hope and optimism when he gives a promising speech. He talks about change, starting a new chapter for a better tomorrow; A tomorrow where students will not have to face financial burdens when they go to college or a tomorrow where ending racism and discrimination unites us all. He gives me a reason to vote and I am glad that my first vote will be for the first black President of the United States of America.

The Expert answers:

Eddie Murphy should be added.

Robert asks…

Is the clock running out on Capital Hill?

Washington, D.C. – “Even after Tuesday’s results in Pennsylvania, Americans probably still won’t know whether Sen. Hillary Clinton or Sen. Barack Obama will be the Democratic nominee for president. More certain: the fate of Capitol Hill this year.”

“In truth, the clock has run out on a host of business issues for the time being. There’s little chance any of these will get real attention anytime soon.”

Free-Trade Agreements – Not going to happen.

RenewableEnergy Tax Credits – Not going to happen.

Climate Change – Not going to happen.

Financial Regulatory Overhaul – Not going to happen.

Tax Reform – Not going to happen.

Immigration control – Not going to happen.

Securing the borders – Not going to happen.

“But come summer, it’s goodbye Washington, hello campaign trail. Lawmakers won’t touch any legislation they aren’t required to take up–like budget appropriations.”

Have a nice year!
Peter, thanks for the correction it should be “Capitol”.

The Expert answers:

Typical year on the Beltway…

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Your Questions About Green Living

George asks…

What can be done to manage energy use in a sustainable way?

Can anyone tell me what can be done to manage energy use in a sustainable way? and as an active citizen what can i do?

The Expert answers:

We have enough Uranium for millions of years if we use breeder reactors (a proven technology) so we aren’t going to be running out any time soon. They are also environmentally friendly with the only waste being some spent fuel that will become less dangerous as time goes on (less dangerous than the ore it came from in about 100 years, we can easily keep it safe for that long).

In a few decades we’ll probably have fusion power which should last us a very very long time and the space infrastructure to collect solar power in a place that isn’t dark half the time.

Lizzie asks…

How would a shopping centre be socially sustainable?

I have to justify why a shopping centre would be good for a city for my homework, and I have no idea what to put for how it is socially sustainable. Also, if anyone has any ideas how it is economically or environmentally sustainable it would be useful. 🙂

The Expert answers:

Try this im not really sure it will help but it’s probably worth having a look
Good luck
xx

http://www.retail-week.com/in-business/responsible-retail/green-issue-2010/shopping-centre-sustainablity-a-force-for-good/5012361.article

Jenny asks…

What Kind of technology do you need to maintain a sustainable and cooperative world?

“What kind of technology do you believe is necessary to maintain a sustainable and cooperative world?”
It is my science topic and I don’t understand it ><
It would help if you could tell me what it means or what the answer is.
thankyouu

The Expert answers:

Technology that doesn’t depend on limited resources or that won’t cause more harm than they are worth.

An example:
Oil and coal are not a sustainable energy source because we’ll eventually run out of them or they will cause to much environmental problems.

Wind energy and solar energy are sustainable because we’ll have those things for basically as long as the earth is habitable and they don’t harm the environment.

Donald asks…

why is it important to ensure your marketing proposal is sustainable over time?

what question should i ask myself regarding my marketing proposal to see whether it is sustainable over time?

The Expert answers:

See previous answer. It is necessary for any marketing project to find out what the likely demand over a protracted period is. If you product is not likely to generate reorders, is not adaptable to other markets and is not likely to have lasting appeal, then your marketting strategy will need to be along the lines of ‘in quick, maximise sales in the short time and then cut out’. If the product is likely to sell more consistently over time, then you need to market in a different way to promote its apeeal – such a marketting stratgey will be ‘sustainable over time’.

Mark asks…

Where is the EcoSkin sustainable bamboo dress in Seventeen available?

There is a sustainable bamboo dress on page 135 of Seventeen magazine that I cannot seem to find online. It’s in a shell/starfish pattern and is light blue. Could someone give me a link if they think they find it?
It’s in the April edition.

The Expert answers:

I checked but i dont see it

ohh srry i dont have April
i hope you find it :]

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Your Questions About Green Living

Nancy asks…

Stores that sell environmental products/gifts/small items that can be used as prizes?

I’m looking for stores (online or physical stores) that sell ecofriendly products such as recycled pens, notebooks, water bottles, etc. that can be given away as prizes to promote environmental awareness. Things that are relatively cheap, but still useful. Fast shipping is a plus.
Thanks in advance!

The Expert answers:

Try this site , http://www.touchshoe.com/ .they have many brand new clothes, I bought from that many times , The quality and the price of their goods all good. Maybe you can find what you want from that..answers.yahoo.com

Maria asks…

Green holiday gift ideas?

My company typically gives “holiday” gifts for our top clients at year’s end. This year, we would like to give a green/ecofriendly gift. The only catch is that our budget is around $50/gift and we need to be able to put our logo on it. Any good sites out there that cater to this need?

Thanks!

The Expert answers:

Potted plants with a sticker of the company logo on the pot. You can make the stickers yourself and save some money!!

Donald asks…

Eco Friendly Birthday Party for 7 year old girl?

I am in the preliminary planning stages for my 7 year old daughter’s birthday party. She is very environmentally conscious, very aware of the less fortunate in our population, and I would like to build on that. Does anyone know of any great ways to share her enthusiasm for these important issues and incorporate them into a birthday theme? I am looking for something that the kids can bring instead of gifts, like the Christmas shoeboxes that some churches send overseas… Something that would not be expensive for families to take part in, but would be at a level that a group of seven year olds would understand and appreciate the value of their contribution.
Any and all suggestions are most welcome, thank you everyone for your time!

The Expert answers:

Make a craft project from recyclables. Teach the kids how to make paper from recycled items.

If you have a small pool, you could put some water in it and other things you would find naturally in a pond or stream then also put in things that would be hazardous to the inviroment and have the kids dip them out using a net.

Put a bunch of stuff on a tray, let the kids look at the tray for a schort period of time and then ask them to write down the things that they saw that could be recycled.

You could also set up boxes, devide the children into groups
scatter stuff in the yard and see which group gets the most in the propper containers. One for glass, plastic, you get the point.

You could let them plant a flower to take home,

As far as something to bring you could have each child bring one non parishable food item to be donated to the local food pantry.

You could also have them bring in good conditiond clothing items that are two small for them to be donated. It keeps them out of the land fill and helps those less fortunate.

You could also have them all bring in a empty cereal box and teach them how to recycle it into a book box or something to hold those stupid plastic bags you get from the store until they can be reused. Many people throw them away because they get all over.

Things you could use for a goodie bag would be seeds, home made playdough, nuts, fruit, a pin to remind them to be enviromentally responsible, a list of local recycleing centers in the area, and treats made from scratch you could also allow the kids to help prepare them. This could also be used as a teaching method, devide them into two groups,
and have one group bake items from scratch such as cookies and and cake or candies, Then have the second group prepare the same thing using boxed products and see which group makes less trash.

Another way to show them how much trash families make is by useing boxed food, is to contact the parents, a few days before the party and have them save all the boxes and send them with their child place them all in a pile hopefully it wont be that big of a pile, but you would be surprised. It is a real eye opener. You could also let the parents join you and educate both child and parents.

George asks…

world with no work,money and everyone has a good standard of living aided by superior eco friendly technology-?

where we can live and experience all the gifts of life…spend our time doing what we love….creativity and learning….

or

a world like ours today…with work(paradigm),money … and status,class differences where not everyone is cared for and technology that destroys the planet just to benefit a few …a world where profit means everything?
i believe it is coming….and that we ARE capable….our evolution will take us there…call me crazy if u want….but when there are enough people…a critical mass will be reached…maybe after alot of destruction and suffering….but a time will come when we will have to make that choice….
orelse…we will wipe ourselves out if we cant…..

sounds like fiction??hahha…..
have faith in us people…i know we can do it…
there are no restrictions…..everyone can excell to their fullest ….infact in a world like todays…someone is stuck as an accountant when he could have been the best composer……
and work is not banned…ppl can work if they want….its just not for money….cause he will not need it…he can have everything he wants..go where he wants…how does this affect anybody elses ability to do the same??
competition is not how one can reach his full potential….the competition is within…..to be better than one was yesterday….
hey….thanks guys for replying.
ok.dont forget..we are reaching a time where machines and robots are going to be capable of doing most jobs that requires humans today.things like travel and grocery shopping are going to be completely automated very soon..we are already moving in that direction.factory workers will be obsolete soon..various jobs will be lost or will be replaced in more effecient ways.physical labor will not be required.our minds and ideas and creativity will be prized…and then as Artificial Intelligence becomes superior to ours…wow…then who knows….we will be obsolete…the generation of cyborgs..and this is almost definate…..there is no stopping this….

hahah…no i have not been watching too many sci fi movies….. this has been predicted by many scientists etc….technology is racing forward.beyond our wildest dreams.our wasteful ways will come to an end….we may be dead in the next 50-100 years or so.but we will witness the beginnings..
we already are….the last 100 years….no one could have imagined the progress……
i know a day will come when money will be obsolete….everything will be a network….something that resembles the universal nature of our world and hidden reality…which some of us witness and experience even today and since the beginning of time(human time)…everything is connected…all is one…the essence of any spiritual experience….
but as i was saying…you and i are hardly going to get a glimpse of that future….we will be gone in the next 50-100 years……maybe a time will come when we can prolong our lives to more than 200 years with advances in medicine and disease/aging control…already ppl want to cryogenically freeze themselves so that they can see this world in the future 100-200 years from now…

tell my ancestors that i will be communicating with someone 1000s of miles away ,while i sit at my desk…and they would laugh…and if they saw it happen…they would think i was an evil magician or something….haha
anyway….who knows huh…..anythings possible…

The Expert answers:

Hey, looks like Star Trek is your ideal world. Good show, BTW…

Ken asks…

Sorry Friends Vey: As a tribute to my love the earth, i was going to send each of my contacts the eco-friendly?

Samsung Reclaim as a gift, but alas AJ & Clint have made it clear they are not interested, so now none of you are getting one…

Would you like to thank AJ & Clint for sparing you this burden?
Haterz yo.
excuse my typo, i was trying to save on energy by leaving out the “of”
oops, there i go wasting again, i’ll have to not wipe my asssss for a week to make up for it.

The Expert answers:

Damn them to hell and may they have chronic diahrea and the tree hugger toilet paper they ahve to use not get them clean.

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