kontentreal
e2: the
economies of being environmentally conscious
e2
energy
episode summaries
releasing
October 19, 2007 on PBS
Chapter
1: Harvesting the Wind
Wind
is the fastest growing energy source in the world, yet it has struggled for
acceptance in the United States. In southwest Minnesota, however, wind
energy is a burgeoning source of local power and income for farmers. Some
have joined forces in wind cooperatives to invest in larger farms and reap
bigger profits. In the absence of a strong renewable energy policy at the
federal level, the state government plays a key role in wind policy, begging
the question: Will the rest of the U.S. follow MinnesotaÕs lead?
Chapter
2: Energy for a Developing World
A
cleaner energy future depends, in large part, on responsible energy consumption
in the developing world. Founded by Nobel Peace Prize-winner Muhammad
Yunus, the Grameen Shakti organization in Bangladesh distributes small solar
systems and portable bio-gas systems to rural Bangladeshis, empowering women
and the poor in the process.
Chapter
3: Paving the Way
In
America alone, nearly 70 percent of oil consumed is by the cars we drive.
Can efficient automobile design mitigate the environmental damage caused by our
beloved cars? General Motors unveils The Volt, a super-hybrid vehicle,
and the fuel cell-powered Sequel, while technology firm Fiberforge shows off
the latest in ultra-light materials for car manufacturing.
Chapter
4: Growing Energy
In
response to the oil crisis of the 1970s, Brazil created a domestic ethanol
industry that is now thriving on all levels, from production, to distribution
at gas stations, to nationwide adoption of flex-fuel cars. The episode
examines what we can learn from BrazilÕs extraordinary success with ethanol, and
whether other countries could follow suit.
Chapter
5: State of Resolve
Could
CaliforniaÕs progressive energy policies spearhead a nationwide
shift toward cleaner energy? The remarkable laws that California has
passed under Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to regulate greenhouse gas emissions
perpetuate the stateÕs reputation for environmental leadership across the
country, and potentially the globe.
Chapter
6: Coal & Nuclear: Problem or Solution?
Renewables,
biofuels, solar, wind and other energy sources may be alternatives to fossil
fuel, but it is impossible to ignore the ubiquity of coal and the power
capabilities of nuclear, despite their many drawbacks. These
controversial resources may be major players in a sustainable energy future,
however, thanks to new developments in carbon capture and sequestration
and improved nuclear technologies.