Abstract This paper explores the possibility of using ethanol as a fuel made from renewable crops. In particular, the paper looks at cellulosic ethanol, which can be produced from agricultural, municipal and forestry waste, corn stalks, sawdust, and waste paper. The author provides a short write up on the chemical qualities and characteristics of ethanol and mentions other countries such as Brazil that have been using ethanol as fuel. The paper advocates the environmental advantages of using ethanol as a renewable alternative fuel and suggests that there should be more support for research on ethanol to be used as fuel on a wide scale.
From the Paper "Rumplestiltskin, a well-known fairy tale, tells about a poor miller's daughter who must spin straw into gold or die. Magic only can help her. Today, with rapidly rising gasoline prices, many Americans hope alternative fuels will soon be developed--and are hoping for some similar kind of magic. Bio-fuels could offer the solution to the problem, particularly ethanol. The challenge is to find cost-effective ways to make ethanol out of such renewable resources as corn, soybeans, sugarcane, the stems and leaves of plants, forest cuttings, wood chips, and all the non-food parts of crops that currently are burned or buried."
Abstract This paper argues that the large-scale diversion of food-crops towards bio-fuels is an ill-advised move that could have catastrophic consequences against little gain. The paper reveals that the large-scale diversion of food crops such as corn for producing ethanol has resulted in sky-rocketing food prices around the world. The paper also discusses the indirect effects of producing ethanol that arguably results in greater emission of carbon-dioxide as large forested areas, particularly in the Amazon, are cleared for growing crops. The paper argues further that corn-based ethanol is an unviable proposition, mainly because the ethanol would anyway only fulfill a minuscule amount of the total gasoline requirement in the country. The paper therefore concludes that producing corn-based ethanol is simply not worth the human suffering and environmental damage it can cause.
Outline:
Rising Grain and Food Prices
Effect on the Amazon
Corn-based Ethanol is Unviable
Conclusion
From the Paper "Barely a couple of years ago bio ethanol fuel was the undisputed 'darling' of environmentalists and government policy makers alike. It was being touted as a clean and renewable alternative to fossil fuels that would tame the galloping oil prices, cure the United State's 'addiction' to imported oil, and control the on-going global warming threatening the world's environment. The overenthusiastic proponents of bio-fuels had obviously not catered for the unintended consequences of an untried policy. The large-scale diversion of food crops such as corn for producing ethanol has resulted in sky-rocketing food prices around the world, and precipitated the worst food crisis in decades."
Tags: grain, food, prices, agriculture, Amazon, environment, energy
Abstract This paper discusses the production of bio-ethanolfuel as an alternative to fossil fuels, in Brazil. The paper begins by giving a summary of the political and economic background of Brazil and goes on to describe why the production of bio-ethanol has been so successful in Brazil. The paper presents the pros and cons of bio-ethanol production and concludes that, at this stage, the advantages of producing ethanol for fuel use appear to outweigh the disadvantages.
From the Paper "Overall, the advantages of producing ethanol for fuel use appear to outweigh the disadvantages, which at this stage, are believed to be manageable. The first benefit is the decrease of the net output of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, since the amount of carbon dioxide released in the manufacture would be cyclically absorbed in the production of the new fuel crops (Wikipedia 2006). The burning of fossil fuels brings up massive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere without creating damage. But this advantage can be derived only from agricultural ethanol, not petroleum ethanol. It is also assumed that production processes, like distillation and fertilizer production, would not exact large amounts of energy and done without using fossil fuels (Wikipedia)."
Abstract The paper discusses the strong reliance on other countries for fossil fuels and the problem of global warming that has encouraged many to promote the use of ethanol as a natural renewable energy source. The paper looks carefully at this alternative and how it compares to other energy sources. The paper discusses how it takes considerable energy to produce ethanol and could divert corn and soybeans from the nation's food supply thus causing a food crisis. The paper stresses the need to look carefully at this alternative and explore all its potential ramifications before any far-reaching decisions are made.
From the Paper "This year more than ever, Americans are beginning to be concerned about alternative fuels, do to the possibility of global warming, the significant increase of gasoline for automobiles and other vehicles and the growing tendency toward green concerns. Deciding on what alternatives of fuel to use, for automobiles for example, is not easy. There are a number of factors to consider that are known in addition to a number of unknowns as well. One of the alternatives that has been receiving considerable coverage this past year is ethanol. Similar to other options, however, it too has its plusses and minuses."
Abstract The paper discusses how economic issues, such as escalating oil prices, and environmental problems, such as global warming, can potentially be addressed by the ethanol market. The paper looks at arguments for and against this source of energy. The paper maintains that global research and development are necessary in order to determine the true benefits and dangers of replacing conventional fuels with ethanol compounds.
From the Paper "According to Eckhart, there are three main drivers for the general renewable energy market, and for the ethanol market specifically. These include environmental concerns, economic factors, and national energy consumption trends. In terms of the environment, air, land and water pollution is fast becoming a crisis. According to environmentalists, no time can be wasted to research renewable energy sources. The environmental driver is likely to become increasingly urgent over the next decades, increasing the need for renewable and cleaner energy sources."
Abstract In this paper the author takes an in-depth look at Ethanol. The author makes mention of the different ways that it can be produced, its various characteristics, chemical composition and uses. The paper concludes with various arguments as to why ethanol has so many benefits and is so useful and argues why it may well be the ?fuel of the future?.
From the paper:
?Ethanol (ethyl alcohol, grain alcohol) is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic, agreeable odor. In dilute aqueous solution, it has a somewhat sweet flavor, but in more concentrated solutions it has a burning taste. Ethanol, CH3CH2OH, is an alcohol, a group of chemical compounds whose molecules contain a hydroxyl group, ? OH ? bonded to a carbon atom.?
Abstract The paper explains the limitations and disadvantages of using petroleum and discusses the interest of American consumers in switching to automobiles powered by ethanol. The paper also looks at the position of the government and oil companies and looks at the subgroups of consumers and framers who would be the most affected. In addition, the paper discusses the drawbacks of using ethanol but concludes with a personal position that supports ethanol as a long-tern alternative.
Outline:
Problems with Petroleum
Existing Market for Petroleum and Ethanol Causes in Market Shifts
Response of Companies and the Government
Subgroups Affected
Conclusions of Experts
My Personal Position
From the Paper "Not only is petroleum a depleting resource, but vehicle emissions running on petroleum have created a pollution problem in the United States and most of the industrialized world. These emissions have increased the green house gases in the earth's atmosphere and in turn have led to global warming. Billionaire businessman Ted Turner has helped bring this issue to the forefront of the energy debate, stating, "'I think dealing with climate change is going to be the biggest single challenge humanity has ever faced, and we're facing it now'" (Dittrick, 2007, p. 26)."
Abstract The paper looks at an article entitled "Going Crazy for Ethanol" by S. Pearlstein and explores economic issues associated with the supply and demand of a gasoline substitute, ethanol. The paper provides a synopsis of the article in relation to economic theory and explains why changes have occurred in the supply, demand and price of ethanol. The paper examines the invisible hand theory that is proposed to facilitate the equilibrium of price and demand. The paper concludes that understanding how economic conditions affect the marketplace provides managers with vital tools necessary for making effective business decisions.
Outline:
Abstract
Economic Issue
Economic Influences
Supply and Demand
The Invisible Hand Theory
Conclusion
From the Paper "Pearlstein, the author of the article, reports that the price for ethanol has reached an all time high of $2.90 per gallon which is twice as high as a year ago. With the manufacturing cost around $1.25 per gallon, the operating margin exceeds 50%. Ethanol is a colorless, volatile alcohol derived from the fermentation of grains and sugars or by the hydration of ethylene. Ethanol can serve as an environmentally friendly substitute for gasoline. Many oil companies are exploring options for production of ethanol to mix it with gasoline to reduce costs. Data indicate that adding ethanol to gasoline would reduce current prices at the pump by 30 cents per gallon (Donaldson, 2006 12)."
Abstract This paper devotes time to explaining what fossil fuels are, their history and their uses. Specifically, the paper brings to light two major problems with the continued use of fossil fuels; the peak oil theory that contends that oil depletion has begun and the fact that the burning of fossil fuels cause greenhouse gasses associated with global warming. The paper also looks at fossil fuel alternatives and conservation programs worldwide and in the United States and emphasizes the importance of fossil fuel reduction for our future.
Outline:
Introduction
The Science Behind Fossil Fuels: What Are They
The Science Behind Fossil Fuels: Their History
Fossil Fuels' Uses
Controversy and Concern: Peak Oil and Greenhouse Gasses
Fossil Fuel Alternatives and Conservation Programs: Worldwide
Fossil Fuel Alternative and Conservation Programs: The United States
Conclusion
From the Paper "As fuel prices continue to rise across the world and effects of global warming are already being observed in some degree, the public's need to know about fossil fuels is greater than ever. Most understand that the fuels are non-renewable resources produced during the years of the dinosaurs, but most do not understand the exact debt of their usage and the profound importance of their discontinuation. Fossil fuels were created in a manner so unique that it would be nearly impossible to recreate today. Because they have been around for millions of years, however, people have been using fossil fuels for quite some time, in spite of the fact they are a non-renewable resource. While the use of fossil fuels have a long history, two major problems with the continued use of the fuels exist."
Abstract The paper talks about the Kyoto Protocol that provided an international directive in environmental emissions, demanding that countries shoulder the responsibility for emissions regulations and standards. The paper then discusses hydrogen fuel cell research and the effectiveness of integrating these technologies in domestic and public modes of transportation. The paper argues that hydrogen fuel cell development should become the primary focus for any company that wants to adhere to environmental standards and reduce long-term costs of using fossil fuels.
Outline:
The Kyoto Protocol
The Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Green Companies: Ford and Mercedes
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Limitations
From the Paper "The 21st century global marketplace has been witness to the advent of numerous technological advances in an effort to create efficiency and reduce the cost of utilizing expensive energy resources. Environmental policy has also played an important role in the legitimacy of large corporations primarily due to the alarming increase in global warming. As the world becomes closer to its neighbors through free-market trade, the relevance of environmental accountability becomes even more paramount. With oil prices rapidly increasing and technological advances in the synthesis of energy resources, the transportation industry is becoming more responsible for the environmental impact due to business operations. Countries and companies worldwide are becoming more active in regulating fuel economy. The rise of hydrogen fuel cell integration in domestic vehicles, locomotives and public transportation services has increased due to environmental regulations and finding cost efficient resources for power."
Abstract The paper shows that fuel cells offer tremendous promise and potential as an energy source. Among topics covered in this paper include: How fuel cells operate, why they are cleaner than a combustion powered engine and the research that is currently being conducted to advance this technology. The paper also lays out the roles the federal government, automakers, and oil companies are playing in investing in fuel technology. It also discusses the problems that need to be overcome in order for the use of fuel cells to meet their full potential as an energy source.
From the Paper "In summary once the fuel cell market begins to take off, the impact can snowball. Using hydrogen to combine such renewable energy sources with highly efficient fuel cell cars would impact many industries such as the automobile, oil, electricity and natural gas. Furthermore, an added benefit of fuel cell will be the elimination of carbon dioxide that are produced by gas powered engines, instead the only by product produced here would be water. In fact this water will be safe enough to drink because it will be pure. Research will continue to advance the potential of fuel cell as a dependable long term energy source."
Abstract The paper explains that since airlines are heavily dependent upon fuel for its continuing operations, they have been heavily burdened by rising fuel prices. The paper then looks at airlines' cost-cutting measures such as laying of thousands of workers and delaying or eliminating long-distance flights and relates that the general aviation industry has also suffered. Next, the paper overviews the solutions that revolve around alternative lead-free fuel. The paper concludes that while the market is extremely unstable at the moment, it is nonetheless possible that the crisis can be averted when officials work together to find viable solutions.
From the Paper "The rising costs of fuel has become the main conversation point of motorists throughout the world. For perhaps the first time in world history, the food and fuel crises have become worldwide phenomena, with only an investment in alternative fuel sources appearing to be a valid long-term response. The aviation industry is no exception, and indeed appears to be one of the hardest hit industries in terms of fuel. Both commercial and private airlines need a large amount of fuel in order to complete their long- and short-distance flights. The rising fuel costs have resulted in a number of strategies to mitigate the extra investment required. Some commercial airlines have even reduced their long-distance flights in order to save fuel, while others have increased their ticket costs. The reality is that fuel prices are likely to continue their upward trend as the world's oil resources are increasingly pressured."
Abstract This paper concerns the alternative fuel hydrogen. The writer notes how this fuel is produced and looks at some of the problems of making it practical for use in automobiles and other vehicles. The writer explains that storage is a major issue, because hydrogen takes up four items the space of a comparable fast energy source. Some of the research being conducted to correct this situation is noted, including new materials for storage.
From the Paper "There are many reasons to embrace the demand for alternative fuels. The current state of the world's ongoing energy crisis, of the demand for fossil fuel and of the constant fighting over oil in the middle east, are all current events that are related to oil and fuel. However, we should also look to the future for the true reasons for using alternative fuels. The emissions from power plants, refineries and automobiles are causing global warming and irreversible damage to the ozone. This is why it is so important for scientists, engineers and researchers to break down the fossil fuel barrier and replace it with alternative fuels, one of which is hydrogen."
Abstract This paper examines the American metropolitan transportation system and maintains that it is in dire need of improvement, especially in terms of reducing air pollution. The paper discusses how the massive use of fossil fuels derived from oil is becoming prohibitively expensive, but that the gravest consequence is the constant emission of poisons into the atmosphere from vehicle exhausts. The paper points out that this problem has become especially acute over the last thirty years and needs to be resolved through the use of alternative fuels.
From the Paper "The American metropolitan transportation system is in dire need of improvement, especially in terms of reducing air pollution. The massive use of fossil fuels derived from oil is becoming prohibitively expensive, but the gravest consequence is the constant emission of poisons into the atmosphere from vehicle exhausts. This problem has become especially acute over the last thirty years and needs to be resolved through the use of alternative fuels. The initial development of fuel-efficient cars was primarily in response to the OPEC oil crisis of the nineteen-seventies and the resulting dramatic rise in gasoline prices for American motorists. Up until the Yom Kippur War of 1973, Americans drove high-powered, gas-guzzling cars and since gasoline was so cheap no consumers were interested in buying fuel-efficient cars."
Abstract The paper considers the greenhouse effect and global warming and discusses the development of hydrogen and electricity as alternative fuels. The paper author of the paper strongly believes that we must begin to use alternative fuels, otherwise we will continue on the downward path toward the complete destruction of the earth and its natural habitats.
From the Paper "Over the past ten years or so, the American government and the public have increased their awareness of the problems associated with global warming, caused by what some call the "greenhouse effect" in which carbon dioxide, the byproduct of burning fossil fuels like coal and oil, prevents the earth from cooling down as it naturally would if not for the presence of CO2 in the atmosphere. Within recent times, many scientists have concluded that this "greenhouse effect" is warming up the planet to the point where ice caps and glaciers in Antarctica and the North Pole are melting at unprecedented rates, thus making it feasible that coastlines along all major continents will be inundated by melting water sometime in the future, causing huge numbers of people to seek higher ground."
