Abstract The paper discusses how the use of fossil fuels is a threat to sustainability if current usage patterns continue to harm the environment and rely on an uncertain long-term supply. The paper looks at the use of coal and relates that there is an increased potential to exploit this abundant resource in a manner that is sustainable, produces minimal harm to the environment and meets growing energy demands until non fossil fuel energy resources can be developed. The paper discusses potential source material for this research.
Outline:
The Potential of Coal for Meeting Future Energy Needs
Research Guide: Probing the Issue
Potential Biases: Navigating Personal Values and Issues
Potential Source Material for This Research
From the Paper "One of the most significant environmental issues affecting long-term sustainability is the world's extensive energy use. Despite claims that the world is dependent on oil, the situation is much more pervasive than that. In fact, modern societies are entirely dependent on energy. Fossil fuels are one of the most effective energy resources that civilization currently exploits. Technology and infrastructure for utilizing these resources are far more extensive than for any other kind of energy resource, currently making fossil fuels the preferred choice."
Abstract This paper assesses the costs and benefits to the environment of using nuclear energy. The paper explains that while theoretically nuclear energy is a clean, effective, efficient and almost inexhaustible form of power, public opinion is widely opposed to its usage. However, the author of this paper maintains that that opposition is based on misinformation. The paper explains the process of creating and harnessing nuclear energy, showing how it is nearly identical -- save the source of the heat -- to that used by geothermal energy plants and many coal-burning plants. The paper further demonstrates that nuclear energy is actually the safest, most environmentally-sound energy option and concludes that more should be done to support its adoption as America's primary sustainable energy source.
From the Paper "The public's apprehensive assessment of nuclear power remains its most serious obstacle. Although disasters and fatalities have been fairly limited, the potential for catastrophe is not overlooked by anyone. The Three Mile Island disaster seems to be burned into public perception regarding any discussion of nuclear energy (Beder, 224-5). Additionally, radioactive nuclear waste cannot be dumped back into the environment: it remains dangerous for thousands of years. As a consequence, collecting, relocating, and storing this waste presents environmental risks that most other energy resources are not associated with. Naturally, if proper precautions are taken and no mishaps occur; nuclear power is perhaps the most cost effective, cleanest, safest, and sustainable form of energy society has to offer. However, all rests upon its appropriate handling and the public's trust in its distributors."
Abstract The following paper gives the reader a brief history of coal and its uses. It also analyzes the refining technique known as the Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle or IGCC as well as some history and new technologies associated with this fossil fuel.
From the Paper "Coal is a sedimentary organic rock that contains a lot of carbon, typically between 40 and 90 percent carbon by weight. Ancient plants and animals accumulating in moist peat bogs form coal. As plants die off in a wet area, they pile up into peat. It takes between 4,000 and 100,000 years for one meter of peat to accumulate. This process happens best in river deltas or coastal plains. Over time, further deposits compress these peat seams and the carbon content of the coal is concentrated. The older the coal gets, generally, the harder and blacker it gets. There are four "ranks" of coal. Listed from lowest to highest rank, they are: lignite, subbituminous, bituminous, and anthracite. Rank is determined by energy content and chemical composition. Lignite is the youngest form of coal and is soft and brown, not much different than dried peat. Lignite has a low energy content, typically about 13 million Btu per ton. The carbon content is low also, around 40 percent. Lignite is typically used only when higher grades of coal are not available or affordable. Subbituminous coal is common in the US. It has an energy content of about 18 million Btu per ton, and is used mostly in coal-fired power plants. Bituminous coal is the most widespread form in the US and is high in energy content, averaging 24 million Btu per ton. Bituminous and subbituminous account for most coal use in America. The hardest coal, anthracite, is found mostly in Pennsylvania, but most supplies of anthracite there have been exhausted. The energy content is high, around 23 million Btu per ton, but it tends to have a high sulfur content. It is more than 90 percent carbon. "
Abstract The debates on sustainable development are now critical of the original UN definition of sustainable development. Using that broad definition, multinational corporations claim themselves as key agents of sustainability and cover up their part in environmental and social damage. Yet the common point of departure in the debates is the key concepts consistent in the UN definition. This paper compares different approaches to sustainable development.
Abstract This paper discusses the concept of sustainable development as it pertains to the public good. It also discusses the idea of externalities in that sustainable development affects the lives of many people without regard for whether they have actively sought its benefits as well as demands. The paper proposes a brief outline of a sustainable development solution based on a working model found in the literature.
From the Paper "Sustainable Development and the Public Good Overview Kollock describes a public good as something from which all persons can and do benefit irrespective of whether they have contributed to the public good or not (1998, par.17). If one examines the environmental and economic concept of sustainable development (SD) it becomes clear that SD is, by definition, a public good. SD benefits all and certainly a minority of any population will actively participate in its development or its denouement. Yet, SD is also rife with externalities in that, because of its pervasiveness, it will undoubtedly affect the lives of people whether they have agreed to it or are participative or not. The Difficulty of Sustainable Development At first blush the combination of these two terms: sustainability and developmental, might seem an oxymoron or a contradiction at best."
Abstract This paper looks closely at the emergence of sustainable architecture and its function in the 21st century. The paper is broken down into three parts: the philosophy, the materials utilized and the importance of the design of sustainable architecture. To aid in this analysis, three central sustainable architects are also included in this research.
From the Paper "Sustainable architecture has become a movement within architecture in this last century. In accordance with recent environmental movements, sustainable architecture attempts to save and share resources, to save and spare economically. King writes that the "shift to a sustainable, ecologically restorative way of life in city and countryside, guaranteeing fair shares of resources and opportunities across space and time, will involve the bitterest struggles over material interests" (9). This mentality is fundamental to the conservation and continuation of our species. It incorporates a new element of creativity into the work of an architect, which can be a rejuvenating element, as the art of architecture is as old as they come. The use of such designs into the 21st century shows a respect for our children and an equal respect for our earth, and, as our materials begin to ..."
Abstract This paper discusses sustainability and resource management in terms of the triple bottom line, an approach which accounts for economic prosperity, environmental quality, and social justice. It looks at how although these are not elements normally thought of as part of the business mandate, they must be if business is to achieve the sustainability required in a world that shows diminishing resources and the need to control for and eliminate environmental damage.
From the Paper "The triple bottom line approach to resource management emerges from the effort to maintain a sustainability agenda, which in turn involves the effort to harmonize "the traditional financial bottom line with emerging thinking about the environmental bottom line" (Elkington 2). The triple bottom line accounts for economic prosperity, environmental quality, and social justice. These are not elements normally thought of as part of the business mandate, but they must be if business is to achieve the sustainability required in a world that shows diminishing resources and the need to control for and eliminate environmental damage. The triple bottom line is described as a challenge and one that cannot be refused unless the global economy wants to be destroyed. In addition, meeting this challenge for the multinational or transitional company involves bringing pressure on vendors, suppliers, and partners to do the same thing. "
Abstract This paper discusses how ecological footprints, effective ecological tools used to help maintain our world, impose many questions in sustaining the earth's life. Charts are included with the paper.
Defining Our Ecological Footprint
Dependency on Nature
Carrying Capacity of Cities and Earth
Comparison between Countries
Natural Capita: Effects on the Earth
Impact of the World Economies
Solutions
From the Paper "The world economy has a great impact on the ecological footprints of the world. Every country wants to obtain economic growth to produce more money. But in doing this, they have to deplete their natural capital, which in turn, is not helping in sustaining this world. As William Rees states, "there is simply not enough on the planet to sustain present international development trends using prevailing technologies" (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). So something drastic has to be done. As the ecological footprints of humans are already too large for the earth to handle, how can we accommodate the rising materials and rising in population, while trying to sustain the earth. Most analysts agree that it can happen in two ways: through a reduction in the standard of living or through the increase in material and energy efficiency (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). These two issues also apply problems, through cultural, economic, and social values. Especially in the more developed countries. To lower the standard of living would be outright rejected in the more developed countries such as Canada and the U. S. So indeed, most people agree that "global sustainability is achievable only through large increases in the consumption of goods and services in both poorer and richer countries" (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). But still a problem arises. There will still be inequity in the growth of the more and less developed countries. It seems the richer get richer and the poorer get poorer. A consensus seems to be emerging though. They say that the needed consumption will work if there is a reduction in the material energy costs of goods and services. "
Abstract This paper is a field study that presents the resource management for Lake Wivenhoe, a set of procedures established to maintain Lake Wivenhoe's quality at an acceptably high level, its certainty being guaranteed and its lifespan indefinite, if all appropriate decisions are made. This report investigates the theme of sustainable resource management and the implications that could occur if certain actions are not taken. The author states that the data came from local sources and field observation. Includes an attractive presentation and graphs.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Data Collection
Data Presentation and Analysis
Rural Management
Grazing
Trees
Runoff
Agriculture
Education of Framers
Monitoring
Wildlife
Fencing
Recreational Management
Fishing
Boating
Camping
Picnicking
Education
Publications
Commercial and Industrial Management
SEQ Water Board control
Hydroelectric Power
Scientific Management
Seismology
Water Quality
Rainfall and Runoff Monitoring
Flood Mitigation
Findings
Rural Management
Recreational Management
Commercial and Industrial Management
Scientific Management
Conclusion
From the Paper "The SEQ water Board is the corporation that is in control of managing Lake Wivenhoe and its surrounding lakes. The Water Board has had over 15 years? experience running the lake at the highest standard possible. It is a stable corporation that that can control its own finances without any political interference. Also, it has always followed the guidelines set up by the government on water quality. The SEQ Water Board receives no government funding and is therefore responsible for its own financial state."
Abstract This paper reviews an issue within the scope of urban sustainability. The issue deals with urban agriculture placing special emphasis on community gardening. The assignment looks at the environmental, economic and social benefits of urban agriculture and community gardens.
From the Paper "Urban sustainability has become an increasingly common issue in recent years. One area in which urban areas are not sustainable is in terms of food. The best way of increasing food security within urban areas is through urban agriculture. Community gardens in particular are an important way of increasing food security in urban areas while also providing a number of other social and environmental benefits. These benefits will go a long way towards increasing urban sustainability. Sustainable Development, Urban sustainability and Food Insecurity The idea of sustainable development has become very popular in recent years."
Abstract The paper explores whether or not coal power can ever become a sustainable technology. The paper defines sustainability and explains that although coal power plants pollute the atmosphere, new technologies have made the idea of environmentally responsible coal power plants a possibility. The paper concludes that the use of coal in hyper-efficient gasification plants seems to be a viable, sustainable option.
From the Paper "First we must articulate a conception of sustainability, a definition if you will. Conclusions about coal's sustainability will be largely arbitrary unless we establish from the outset a clear sense of what it means to be sustainable. This will provide the framework with which coal's potential to be a sustainable option can be evaluated. It is naive to think that sustainability is defined as an either-or proposition. Too often, definitions of sustainability imagine that a process, technology, or ideology is either sustainable or it is not."
Abstract This paper discusses America's ever-increasing consumption of oil and the depletion of fossil fuels, oil, coal and natural gas. The paper presents a resource sustainability plan to aid in the problem of depleting fossil fuels. The paper also discusses the necessity for a plan to reduce the problem of depleting fossil fuels and how such a plan can be implemented. A table of action steps to implement the plan is included in the paper.
From the Paper "The exhaustion of our environment's coal, oil and natural gas resources is a horrifying but inevitable event if we do not change our current way of life. Wind power, hydropower, solar power and biomass fermentation are only some of the alternative fuel sources available to us and the government's researchers are finding other sources every day. After the initial cost of converting to the use of alternative fuel sources the cost is virtually non-existent. Wind, flowing water, the sun's rays are all freely offered from our environment. We simply need to take the initial step towards a change and the benefits will be endless."
Abstract This paper begins with a description of the appearance and composition of coal and then takes a look at the history of coal as an energy source. The paper also discusses the negative effects of using coal as an energy source, explains how coal is mined, looks at the use and mining of coal from an economic perspective and looks at the advantages of using coal as an energy source.
From the Paper "Man has always aimed to acquire a fuel source that would be beneficial for the community. One such fuel that man stumbled upon was coal. "Coal has been used for heating since the cave man" (A Brief History of Coal Use). There are two types of mining that take place in order to acquire coal. One is an underground mining and the other being an open-pit mining. Coal is a sedimentary rock that is black or brownish black in color. Primarily it is composed of carbon and has many other elements in it including sulfur. The formation of coal is also a highly interesting procedure and it is formed from the remains of the plants that have been chemically altered, hardened, compacted as well as metamorphosed by pressure and heat over geologic time. There are four types of coal depending on the length of time they have been exposed to the geological processes. The lowest quality of coal is 'Lignite' which is also at times referred to as brown coal. Its use is exclusively reserved as fuel for steam-electric power. A compact form of lignite which is polished is known as 'Jet' and its use since the Iron Age has been as an ornament. The next level up is the 'Sub-bituminous' coal and its properties range from lignite to bituminous coal. Its primary purpose is the same as that of lignite. 'Bituminous' is normally black in color and is a dense coal. Apart from being used as fuel in steam-electric power generation, it is also used for heat and power applications in order to make coke. The highest quality coal is 'Anthracite' and it is used primarily for space heating in residential as well as commercial uses."
Abstract The paper overviews the history of the development of coal mining methods in the Appalachian regions. The paper looks at underground mining, strip mining and mountaintop removal mining (MRM) as well as the problem of inadequately controlled and managed coal slurry impoundments and slag heaps. The paper also describes the harmful effects of these methods of mining on the environment. In addition, the paper refers to many studies that all emphasize the fact that a more harmonious balance between industrial coal mining and the environment needs to established.
Outline:
Introduction
The Environmental History of Appalachian Coal Mining
Environmental Impact of Coal Mining in the Appalachians
Conclusion
From the Paper "The issue of coal mining in the Appalachian regions has in recent years been the cause of much debate and contention. The central concern in this debate is the dramatic and severe impact that coal mining has had on the environment of the region. In the age of global warming and climate change the issue of the devastation of the natural environment through mining methods such as mountaintop removal mining (MRM) tends to evoke strong and critical responses."
