The Energy-Environment Connection

While the enormous benefits of energy use have always been obvious, only recently has it become apparent that its costs also are enormous. The ever-escalating scale of human activity has brought civilization to the point where energy and environment problems affect not only today's global ecosystem and its present inhabitants but also generations yet unborn. Society faces critical and unprecedented decisions involving energy supply, use, and regulation - decisions that are inextricably linked with issues of social equity, economics, and environmental ethics. This book brings together leading scientists and policy analysts from around the world to provide the latest thinking on all aspects of the vital connection between energy and the environment. The complex questions explored touch on nearly every issue relating to the environment and to human aspirations for improving our quality of life. The book is organized around three themes: the environmental impact of energy-source supplies (fossil fuels, nuclear power, biomass); environmental and economic benefits of energy efficiency; and policy and ethical issues, including environmental ethics and Third World economic development. Its goal is to help citizens and leaders find a way to balance the costs and benefits of energy within the context of global sustainability.