Water Energy And Environment A Primer

'We are experiencing the beginning of an energy revolution in these early years of the 21st century.' Water, Energy, and Environment - A Primer provides an introduction to, and explanation of, this revolution.

The book presents a clear explanation of the inextricable linkages among water, energy, and environment issues - the water/energy/environment nexus. Early chapters discuss the current water, energy, and environment contexts in detail, including an overview of global water issues, the importance of energy efficiency, traditional energy and emerging renewable energy technologies, global warming and climate change and other water- and energy-related environmental issues (e.g., water and air contamination, oil spills, radioactive waste storage, environmental impacts associated with solar, wind, hydropower, and biomass energy), the importance of recognizing and dealing with the nexus as well as policy implications and recommendations for moving forward. Insight is given into the policy process associated with the nexus, policy history, policy options, and steps people and institutions can take to address issues such as climate change, access to clean water, and energy poverty.

Although it is widely understood that energy and water are the world’s two most critical resources, their vital interconnections and vulnerabilities are less often recognized. This farsighted book offers a new, holistic way of thinking about energy and water—a big picture approach that reveals the interdependence of the two resources, identifies the seriousness of the challenges, and lays out an optimistic approach with an array of solutions to ensure the continuing sustainability of both. Michael Webber, a leader and teacher in the field of energy technology and policy, explains how energy and water supplies are linked and how problems in either can be crippling for the other. He shows that current population growth, economic growth, climate change, and short-sighted policies are likely to make things worse. Yet, Webber asserts, more integrated planning with long-term sustainability in mind can avert such a daunting future. Combining anecdotes and personal stories with insights into the latest science of energy and water, he identifies a hopeful path toward wise long-range water-energy decisions and a more reliable and abundant future for humanity.

Condensed, accessible review of latest state-of-the-art assessments of IPCC, within context of sustainable development.

Written for architects, developers, general contractors, landscapers, and home owners, this book demonstrates how a holistic approach to design can result in a building even better than the sum of its parts. Topics include site and habitat restoration, transportation integration, edible landscapes, energy-efficient design, materials selection, indoor air quality, and cost implications, plus an extensive bibliography and source lists.

How will we meet rising energy demands? What are our options? Are there viable long-term solutions for the future? Learn the fundamental physical, chemical and materials science at the heart of renewable/non-renewable energy sources, future transportation systems, energy efficiency and energy storage. Whether you are a student taking an energy course or a newcomer to the field, this textbook will help you understand critical relationships between the environment, energy and sustainability. Leading experts provide comprehensive coverage of each topic, bringing together diverse subject matter by integrating theory with engaging insights. Each chapter includes helpful features to aid understanding, including a historical overview to provide context, suggested further reading and questions for discussion. Every subject is beautifully illustrated and brought to life with full color images and color-coded sections for easy browsing, making this a complete educational package. Fundamentals of Materials for Energy and Environmental Sustainability will enable today's scientists and educate future generations.