Renewable energy

The Presidential Forum on Renewable Energy is sponsoring a nationwide essay contest for college students between the ages of 18 and 24 asking them to submit a plan on renewable energy, sustainability, and conservation for America. Each of three winners will receive an educational prize of $10,000 to coincide with the celebration of Earth Day in April.

But hurry: the essay is due by February 1, 2008. You can enter online here.

Students are asked to write a four- to six-point renewable energy plan for America, laying out a strategy for the next five to ten years that will minimize our current dependence on nonrenewable energy sources.

The essay contest grew out of a November 17, 2007, forum in which presidential candidates Hillary Clinton, John Edwards, and Dennis Kucinich spoke about global warming and America’s energy future. The event, sponsored by Grist and PRI’s Living on Earth, was presented by the Presidential Forum on Renewable Energy in partnership with League of Conservation Voters Education Fund, California LCV Education Fund, Center for American Progress Action Fund, and NRDC Action Fund.

Good luck!

According to a new study, cutting down forests to grow crops for fuel causes more environmental damage than using biofuels can ever offset.

The quick moves to pass legislation to expand subsidies for crops, such as corn, that can be turned into biofuels was the first red flag. Can we stop the trend of businesses doing things that seem green, but are better for their bottom lines than for the environment?

Interestingly enough, one of the researchers brought environmental responsibility back to the basics: reducing consumption and improving fuel efficiency. We don't need to, nor should we, burn forests. What is needed is conscious living and reasonable public policy. To read the article, "Can't See The Forest For The Biofuels" go to Wired Science.