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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Your Questions About Green Living

Laura asks…

Would an alternative energy source be considered or accepted by trucking and airline companies?

I have noticed lately the high fuel prices have made trucking and airline companies desperate in attempts to cut fuel costs in order to make profit or just to stay afloat.

If some one was to present an plan or an idea to replace petrol
based fuels and combustion technology with a practical and low cost and existing or soon to be existing alternative energy technology to power their fleets, the executives of these companies would be more open to accepting and implementing such ideas due to the severity of their situation. When these big boys implement these technologies in order to save their bottom line and it works, then it would open the way for the rest of society accepting and implementing that alternative fuel technology in every day life. When the happens, that would solve the US’s foreign oil dependence and help the environment. A win-win all around.
My question is what technologies that are in existence or soon will be in existence that requires little or low investment in installing infrastructure or implementing these alternative energy technologies for these trucking and airline fleets? What safety risks would be associated with such technologies? How can such risks be minimized?

If not low cost, how could the owners of these companies make money by investing or installing these technologies in their fleet (give them copy rights or share of the patents so every time some one uses it, they get some money in return?)

How could people gain access to such people and sell the idea to them?
Forgive the long post yet I believe I had to post that in order to lead in effectively into my questions.

The Expert answers:

They lack the resources to make such long-term research investments. Some are willing to be early adopters of promising technologies. But most are slow to adopt even known, proven, practical technologies such as streamlining to reduce aerodynamic drag, low rolling resistance tires, and so on. Rail is already much more efficient than either trucks or planes, and we’re not even utilizing that technology well. Sorry, observation shows that your optimism is unfounded.

Carol asks…

How can we as a country promote alternative energy, use less foreign oil and reduce global warming?

I have a plan to set up a Strategic Energy Fund using excess oil company profits to invest in alternative energy. I will be answering and asking questions to help create dialogue around this and many other important topics so please add me to your Answers Network so that we can continue this national conversation.
Yahoo! Answers Staff note: Yahoo! Answers is a forum for people from all over the world to engage with one another and to find information on topics that interest them. This is not an endorsement. We are not siding with any candidate or party — in general or for the 2008 US elections. We’re hopeful that people from all perspectives will realize the great insights that the Answers community can have, and will turn to us for future discussions.

The Expert answers:

We as a country first need to be more conservative. We can’t be so wasteful in our use of energy. Almost all forms of energy have their downsides. Windfarms are a blot on the landscape (many in Europe think they ruin natural beauty), it remains to be seen if Nuclear energy is completely safe, ethanol fuel will produce H20 which is as bad a greenhouse gas as CO2 (if not worse). Solar energy is probably the best, but it is very expensive. Right now, politicians need to urge us to reduce consumption (and politicians can start by reducing their own consumption). Campaigns waste loads of resources…

Donald asks…

What can we do to convince our overlords (the oil companies) that we want alternative energy vehicles?

Did you know that we had alternative fuel vehicles before we had oil based cars?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_automobile

I learned this when I was a kid which was about 25 years ago. So its not like this is new to anyone out there. I’m tired of fighting wars so some rich guy can make loads of cash for himself. While charging and hitting me with taxes so that he can destroy the environment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPiLgBeiZ2M
I thought that we the people of the United States of America were in charge of this country. Looks like the only thing we are in charge of is cleaning the mess that some overlords cause and push on us through taxes.

The Expert answers:

I’m sure they’re already pretty convinced that we want something else. That isn’t what motivates them to do what they do.

Edit: Yeah, technically we’re “in charge” but, you know….

Susan asks…

I want to discover/work with alternative energy sources. What is the best major to go for in college?

Other colleges would be helpful…I was wondering if Chemical Engineering would be best, or Environmental Engineering. If there isnt a specific major, what can I combine to give me the best edge on producing alternative energy sources that are specifically geared towards environmentally sound policies. After that, I also want to open up my own consulting firm for companies who want to make their factories more environmentally friendly. I am just wondering what’s the best tract to go for.

The Expert answers:

Chem Engineering is probably your best bet for alternative fuels you can take classes in environmental engineering but not all schools offer a specific major for that.

George asks…

Which company is most recommended for Alternative Energy investment?

Many alternative energy projects are emerging. Any recommendations?

The Expert answers:

An Exchange Traded Fund ( ETF) with the symbol PBW invests in the whole spectrum of alternative energy: solar, wind and alternative fuels.
Buying into an ETF is like buying a mutual fund …you are invested in a broad range of companies…but an ETF is traded like a stock…buy it or sell it instantly on-line…
You will pay a commission each time you trade… But there really is no reason to be in and out of alternative energy…it’s just a good sense long-term hold.

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Your Questions About Green Living

Lizzie asks…

Would you support a law that required the government to let the people vote on issues?

immigration, abortion, stem cell research, major environmental issues, tax issues, whether or not to pull out of the war, etc. they could have 2-4 votes per year on major issues and let the people decide…i really think the power needs to come back to the people not left entirely up to the government (no matter who is in power). too long have we had to sit back and watch the politicians make decisions that affect our lives without us having any say at all. it seems only the special interests groups with the most money have their say. this nation is supposes to be a government for the people and by the people, when did we lose that right? how do we get it back and when? personally i want my say back now !
i think something like this would also encourage ppl to vote more, its sad the turnout we have in this nation. hell i iraq they dodged bullets and car bombers to vote…we only have to dodge political signs.

The Expert answers:

Yes. I do not think our “representatives” represent the people. I think first of all, they represent themselves. And secondly, they represent only their political party. Why not let the people vote on the issues? The problem is that we have a representative democracy. So it will never happen.

Joseph asks…

Can someone help me research the intertidal zone aquatic ecosystem in the US?

I’ve been asked do to a biome project on the intertidal zone in the US and I’ve been having trouble finding sufficient research for it. What I ask is that you give me some information on the following: seasonal attractions of the intertidal zone, features of the intertidal zone, climate, a food web, symbiotic relationships, tourism activities, and/or an environmental issue. The project is due on Wednesday. Please provide sources if you can. Best answer gets 10 points and my sincerest thanks.

The Expert answers:

Here are a variety of sites to help you

Sharon asks…

Should I Take These Courses or Not?

Currently I’m a Junior and I’m selecting subjects for next year.
This year I took
Digital Film and Video
Environmental Science
Honors Functions (Advanced Honors PreCalc)
Current Issues
US History
AP Biology

and next year I plan to completely change.

AP Physics
AP Calc BC (gonna take AB over the summer)
Anatomy and Physiology
Forensics
Digital Film 2
AP Environmental Science
AP Statistics
English 12

and I will do AP Chemistry and AP Psychology with self study as the max number of subjects i can take in class i have mentioned. My school does not offer these classes so thats why i decided to self study….my math and science teachers highly recommended me for AP’s but not my english teacher……do should I go for an AP English or should I not. Plus does this schedule look too tough or should i change it a bit…I want to hear your suggestions.

The Expert answers:

HI Oxymoron,

I would recommend going for AP English and drop English 12 or digital film. Given your load and that you will be self-studying I do not understand why you are taking current issues and Digital film. The decision is yours and I would recommend looking at these courses as possible ones to drop if you feel overwhelmed.

Nancy asks…

Japan big on environmental issues …..Kyoto treaty???

Japan wants us to buy their clean cars , but what about their nasty behavior in the antarctic! HOW TWO FACED IS THAT COUNTRY – if they dont move that ship out of the arctic circle a huge catastropy is the end result! How can the government and whaling fleets of Japan be so insulting towards the rest of the world! THE GREENPEACE SHIP IS THERE TO HELP , SO WHY NOT STOP BEHAVING LIKE SOME SPOILED LITTLE DHILD ,PUT ANGER ASIDE , AND TOW THAT NASTY TIN CAN OUT OF THE ONLY PRESTINE PLACE LEFT , BEFORE 1000 TONS OF FUEL RECK EVERYTHING?

HEY JAPAN !!!! – WHY DONT YOU PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH TO THE REST OF THE WORLD DURING YOUR KYOTO MEETINGS????

The Expert answers:

Well said sister.

Carol asks…

So many environmental issues are related to consumption, how should we deal with equal rights?

We have all heard the First Nations speak of consumption in terms of “take only what you need and leave the rest”. Yes, this was a concept before private ownership and profit stole what belongs to us all. Should it still apply today as a simple moral principle? How much is enough? What is a fair share?

If there is such a thing as equal rights, do we not all have a right to our fair share of consumption?

But if we choose not to consume all of our share, isn’t it still ours?

And if someone wants more than their share, shouldn’t they pay for that consumption based on the concept of private ownership and profit that drive our current economic system?

If you want what I have saved, I should be able to sell it to you for a profit, because you used up your “fair share”, right?

Ben Franklin would say in his time, “A penny saved is a penny earned”. Today shouldn’t we say, “A resource conserved by one and then used by another should be paid for”?

The Expert answers:

The problem is GREED.. The First Nations were not a greedy people like the rest of us tend to be.. They lived in harmony with their land.. If they ruled the earth I am sure we wouldnt be in the mess we are in…

The rest of us are greedy.. We consume too much and are ingorant of the damage it does to the world and others…
Look at Donald Trump.. He got wealthy by taking little bits from all of us.. By his own greed he has created more poverty…and by raping the land for his own wants and desires…

Sadly most people are too much into the myth we must compete with our neighbours for wealth and success.. As such its our downfall…
Our government wants us to be greedy though – they benefit every time we buy something – it means we must work more – and the more we work the more taxes they make…

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Your Questions About Green Living

Laura asks…

Which is the “Greenest” Country in the World?

Which country is the “greenest” in terms of energy policies and practices?

I am looking for renewable energy integration, energy policies, practices et cetera. And China, although it leads the world in renewable energy, is not the answer I am looking for.

The Expert answers:

A new survey into the world’s greenest and most livable countries has concluded that out of 141 countries reviewed, Finland is the greenest.

Some of the top 20, in order, were Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Australia, Uruguay, Denmark, Canada, Japan, Israel, Italy, Slovenia, France, Netherlands, Portugal, New Zealand and Greece. The poorest results went to African countries, which dominated the bottom of the table, with Ethiopia coming in last place.

“Finland wins high marks for air and water quality, a low incidence of infant disease and how well it protects citizens from water pollution and natural disasters,” commented the study. Other factors taken into account when ranking the countries included quality of education and income level.

Some other results were the United Kingdom at 25th, the United States at 23rd and China at 84.

The study also looked at individual cities. Of the 72 examined, Stockholm came out on top, followed in order by Oslo, Munich and Paris. A total of four German cities were ranked in the top ten – Munich, Frankfurt, Stuttgart and Dusseldorf – and French cities Lyon and Nantes joined Paris in the top ten as well. New York came in at 15th and London at 27th. At the bottom end were mainly Asian cities, with Beijing’s air pollution problems earning it the lowest spot in the table. Guangzhou and Shanghai were also near the bottom.

Another report says tht GERMANY is the greenest country:

German use of oil, gas and coal in 2007 fell by 5.6 per cent compared with 2006, according to a new report from BP. Global energy consumption, driven by China, America and India, rose by 2.4 per cent in the same year.

Coal-fired power station in Berlin: Germany cut its emissions by 5.6 per cent
The report emerged as the German government passed a new round of environmental laws designed to ensure the country meets ambitious carbon dioxide reduction targets.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel described the laws as “crucial for climate protection” and said they would help Germany reduce its 1990 level of emissions by 40 per cent come 2020.
The laws, which target high polluting lorries and make energy saving designs compulsory for homes built after 2009, should allow Germany to shave 35 per cent off 1990 emissions.
German Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel said the extent of the laws was “the largest worldwide” and said that, with rising energy costs they amounted to “a money-saving programme, a piggy bank”. He said Germany was looking at ways of cutting the final five per cent of carbon emissions to reach its 40 per cent goal by 2020.
Nonetheless, Germany’s Green party and environmental campaigners said the package did not go far enough, and criticised the shelving of proposals to tie car taxes to how much individual models pollute.
Even the council of experts which helped advise the government while the laws were being drafted has said they do not take full advantage of emerging technologies.

Helen asks…

How many oil spills would it take for the world to fully start using a renewable source of energy for a change?

Honestly, it wouldn’t take us that long when we’ll be paying up to $10 (or even more) for a gallon/litre (remember when the market price went up so high last year, +$200 for a barrel?), not just because oil isn’t going to last forever (because in reality, that doesn’t play a big role in oil price change), nor is it just because the population will continue to exponentially increase, or whatever it is.

Because when it comes to de-beautifying and stripping the Earth of its resources, we’re really good at it.

The Expert answers:

Well coming from a person who knows that without oil right now you wont have ur laptop or watever ur using you wouldnt have hot water food or heat so until we find enough renewable recourse be glad we are still buying oil for your selfish ass

Ken asks…

All of the following are non-renewable energy resources except?

A. Coal
B. Oil
C. Water
D. Uranium

#2: A benefit of a hydrogen fuel cell is that its byproduct is:
A. Carbon dioxide
B. Oxygen
C. Water
D. Uranium

#3: Fossil fuels currently account for the majority of the world‘s energy use because they are:
A. Distributed evenly throughout the world
B. Nonpolluting
C. Relatively inexpensive and readily available
D. Renewable energy sources

#3: An object’s gravitational potential energy is directly related to all of the following EXCEPT:
A. Its height relative to a reference level
B. Its mass
C. Its speed
D. The acceleration due to gravity

The Expert answers:

1) Water

2) Water

3) C

4)C Its speed

Chris asks…

Anyone suspect global warming is the energy crisis in disguise?

It seems to me that if I was a politician and couldn’t damage my constituencies by saying we’re running out of cheap oil, I would be inclined to jump on the global warming bandwagon instead in an effort to get the world more interested in renewable energy.

The Expert answers:

I know a scientist who co-authored the nobel prize paper. Modest person, no connection to the oil industry. Really concerned about the environment and conservation.

Carol asks…

renewable energy science help?

4 school we have 2 choose a remote village in the world and invent (but not buikd) a device/machine using renewable energy sources in some way to help the village. any ideas on a village and what i could do? thanx! btw i cant do savann tabak, haiti, as my friends doing it. im really dumb at science! thanx!

The Expert answers:

Http://www.commonwealthministers.com/briefing_papers/conservation_and_renewable_energy_helping_remote_villages_join_the_developm/
http://waterwiki.net/index.php/Renewable_Energy_Use_for_Potable_Water_Supply_in_Remote_Villages_of_Depressed_Region_in_Kazakhstan#Achievements:_Results_and_Impact
http://www.homerenergy.com/webcast-downloads/ises-remic2-v2.pdf

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Your Questions About Green Living

Susan asks…

what are the disadvantages of buying sustainable foods?

The Expert answers:

There is no disadvantages of sustainable food

Michael asks…

the harvesting of food in a protected area is an example of sustainable use.?

true / false

The Expert answers:

False

Richard asks…

I want to stop buying commercial products and start growing my own food…?

Hi, does anyone out there have experience in returning to a sustainable life style, i.e.: removing yourself from being dependent upon other people for your food, cleaning products, ect? Are there any one stop websites that would provide me with the info I’m looking for? Any books you have read that would help me gain knowledge in this area? Thank u!

The Expert answers:

Hey Julia, I know I am a little late on this one but I’ll tell you what I know. I grow most of my own food. It is a lot of work but if you discount your own labor, it does NOT have to be more expensive. I have a large garden that I plant for crops from early spring til late fall. In most lower 48 climates you can keep something going at least 4 or 5 months out of the year, maybe more. If you are single and want to feed yourself, it can mostly be done with a container garden or a raised bed if you don’t have a large garden space. Simple canning suplies like a water bath canner or even a newer pressure cooker, will help you to preserve beans, tomatoes, and all kinds of pickles. Freeze squash, zucchinni, and peppers. A dehydrator can also be very useful for things you don’t want to can and do not have room to freeze. Mother earth news is a good monthly magazine and I have a really good book on the subject I can try to find if you want to email me. It is hard, you may still have to buy some things, but it IS doable even with limited space.

Donna asks…

What is the different between environment and nature?

I want to write an essay about sustainable food and my thesis statement is sustainable food protect environment and nature. I’m a bit confuse right now, so I hope somebody could find a way to distinguish them.Thanks

The Expert answers:

Our planet has many types of environments but all of them together make up the natural world or nature. Environments change with geography and latitude but are still part of nature.
When you talk about food it is usually done in arable land but the repercussions of how this land is handled extends into the ocean and to uncultivated wilderness. How one environment is harmed harms all.

Carol asks…

How can we encourage organic and sustainable food practices when Republicans support big food industries?

Organic food at the local level is scientifically proven to help the environment, save resources and is healthy. How can we encourage such practices in spite of Republicans who have no regard for the environment, strains on resources, and who support big and fast food industries and try to get past the nutritional guidelines by classifying pizza as a vegetable so kids can eat junk food at school?

The Expert answers:

Right now our ability to product our own food in the US is down to 3% the rest is imported.If that 3% is cut off we will be in a world of hurt.You’re right on more local produced food stuff.The problem is big producers have a total grip on this country.There are very few small farms left.They can’t compete with the big boys.The pizza thing is a good example of big business.We need a lot of small truck farmers in this country.That would save billions in transportation etc. And put more people to work in that field.

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Your Questions About Green Living

Lizzie asks…

business studies: create eco-friendly product (mine is recycled clothing) creative way to present my plan?

basically we have to create a product that is ecofriendly and i decided that my product be recycled clothing! we have to make a business plan (which i already made) but i want to show examples of my store that sells recycled clothing. the atmosphere is cute and quirky and my target consumers are teenagers/young females. I can’t design an outfit but is there any other way to creatively present my idea (like create a business card to show that is one way of marketing my product)

sorry if this makes no sense.

The Expert answers:

Do a storyboard – like a gigantic business card.

Susan asks…

What is “Eco-friendly” clothing?

I’ve seen it on TV when designers are referring to a model’s outfit….they may say something like, “…and it is “Ecofriendly” also”. What do they mean? Are they going to bury their outfit in the ground, and it will dissolve or something?…..What is up with this?

The Expert answers:

It means that the dyes and other chemicals used in to make the clothes aren’t harmful to the Earth.

Mary asks…

How much would you pay for eco-friendly pet clothing?

hey guys – any and all feed back will be appreciated … although if you think dogs wearing clothes is ridiculous, you might not be able to provide the exact TYPE of feedback i’m looking for 🙂

So the question is, how much would you pay for a dog jacket like the one in my “yahoo people” profile picture? Keep in mind the products are ecofriendly and therefore slightly more expensive. The fabric is made in the US, and organic. Everything will be manufactured in the US so keep that in mind.

this is organic, fair trade, sweat-shop free!

thanks so much!

The Expert answers:

I don’t see how you can claim that any dog clothing is eco friendly. They don’t need it, therefore you are wasting energy and resources by making them.

Maria asks…

What’s the best eco friendly way to get stains off of baby clothing?

Hi everyone, my little girl is 13 months old and it seems that whenever I put her clothes in the washing machine they come out with more stains on them than when they went in! Any suggestions? A lot of her clothes have brown spotting on them and i have no idea what it is.

The Expert answers:

I used Borax in my kids clothes. The new oxyclean may help. Amway has a great spray for stains too.

Mark asks…

Can anyone recommend some good websites where I can buy eco-friendly clothes or hippie-style clothes?

The Expert answers:

Google it, organic cotton etc. I know of Etsy.com, which is a fabulous site with real original stuff made mostly by stay at home moms. Check that out.

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