Alternative and renewable energy sources Books

Book SynopsisFuture energy technologies must embrace and achieve sustainability by displacing fossil carbon-intensive energy consumption or capture/reuse/sequester fossil carbon. This book provides a deeper knowledge on individual low (and zero) carbon technologies in a comprehensive way, covering details of recent developments on these technologies in different countries. It also covers materials and processes involved in energy generation, transmission, distribution, storage, policies, and so forth, including solar electrical; thermal systems; energy from biomass and biofuels; energy transmission, distribution, and storage; and buildings using energy-efficient lighting.Table of ContentsChapter 1 A Review of Solar Air Heater Chapter 2 Development of Different Sun-Tracking Systems for Displacement of Solar Concentrator Implanted in Tunisia Chapter 3 Solar Drying Technology: Sustainable and Low-Carbon Energy Technology Chapter 4 Experimental and Economic Performance of Two Solar Dryer Systems in Tunisia Chapter 5 Performance Enhancement of Solar PV System by Using Nano Coolants Chapter 6 Global Trends of Biofuel Production and Its Utilization Chapter 7 Biofuel: An Alternative Fuel for Fossil Fuel Chapter 8 Alternative Fuel for Transportation: Hydrogen Chapter 9 Fuel Cell Technology-Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Chapter 10 Low Carbon Energy System: Role of Fuel Cell Technology Chapter 11 Solid Oxide Fuel Cells: Opportunities for a Clean Energy Future Chapter 12 Comprehensive Study of District Heating (DH) in the UK: Techno-Economic Aspects, Policy Support, and Trends Chapter 13 Potential of the Thermal Energy Storage System in Peak Shaving Chapter 14 Comparative Assessment on the Use of Energy Storage in the Building Envelopes: A Review Chapter 15 Passive and Free Cooling of Buildings Chapter 16 Sustainable Timber-Based Building Systems in the Context of Reducing Energy Performance in the Building Use Phase Chapter 17 Deployment of the Low Carbon Energy Supply Technologies for Sustainable Development Chapter 18 Development and Application of Phase Change Materials in the Biomedical Industry

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Book SynopsisIntermediate foundations are used as anchors for floating platforms and ancillary structures, foundations for steel jackets, and to support seafloor equipment and offshore wind turbines. When installed by suction, they are an economical alternative to piling, and also may be completely removed. They are usually circular in plan and are essentially rigid when laterally loaded. Length to diameter embedment ratios, L/D, generally vary between 0.5 and 10, spanning the gap between shallow and deep foundations, although these are indicative boundaries and the response, rather than the embedment ratio, defines an intermediate foundation.The first chapters introduce foundation types; compare shallow, intermediate and deep foundation models and design; define unique design issues that make intermediate foundations distinct from shallow and deep foundations, as well as list their hazards that mainly occur during installation. Later chapters cover installation, in-place resistance and iTable of Contents1. Introduction. 2. Offshore Foundation Types and Mode of Operation. 3. Loads. 4. Marine Geology. 5. Loading Conditions and Soil Drainage. 6. Hazards, Uncertainties and Risk Minimisation. 7. Investigation Programs. 8. Design Basis. 9. Installation, Retrieval and Removal. 10. In-Place Resistance. 11. In-Place Response. 12. Miscellaneous Design Considerations

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Book SynopsisThis revised edition of Renewable Energy: A First Course is fully updated and continues to provide the best in-depth introduction to renewable energy science. The book focuses mainly on renewable energy, but also addresses nonrenewable energy (fossil fuels and nuclear technology). The coverage extends from the basic physics to conservation, economic, and public policy issues, with strong emphasis on explaining how things work in practice. The authors avoid technical jargon and advanced math but address fundamental analytical skills with wide application. Updated statistics, figures, policies, trends, and technological advancements will bring the reader up to speed with the current state of renewable energy. Table of Contents1 Introduction2 Fossil Fuels3 Nuclear Power: Basic Science4 Nuclear Power: Technology5 Biofuels6 Geothermal Energy7 Wind Power8 Hydropower9 Solar Radiation and Earth’s Climate10 Solar Thermal11 Photovoltaics12 Energy Conservation and Efficiency13 Energy Storage and Transmission14 Climate and Energy: Policy, Politics, and Public Opinion15 Data Analytics and Risk Assessment: An Overview16 Dynamics of Population: An OverviewAppendix A: Answers to Even-Numbered ProblemsAppendix B: Useful Physical ConstantsAppendix C: Useful Conversion Factors

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Book SynopsisWe don't have an energy crisis. We have a consumption crisis.Trade Review"A bold look at the downside of green technologies and a host of refreshingly simple substitute solutions."—Kirkus"What set Zehner's work apart from the glut of other environment-related titles are his fresh ideas and superlatively engaging prose."—Carl Hays, Booklist Online"With chapter subtitles like "Step Away From the Pom-Poms" and epigraphs from the likes of Dr. Seuss, Zehner is a delightful apostate in the church of green energy."—Sarah Rothbard, slate.com"This book is a must read for anyone concerned with sustainable living."—Daniel J. Benor, International Journal of Healing and Caring"All Americans should read this book."—K. J. White, Choice"As a nation, we have hard decisions before us. We need to find actual, tangible solutions that will make a real difference. Our path begins with critical thinking and informed choices. This book helps us get started."—Jonathan Hladik, Great Plains ResearchTable of ContentsList of IllustrationsList of FiguresAcknowledgmentsIntroduction: Unraveling the Spectacle Part I: Seductive Futures1. Solar Cells and other Fairy Tales2. Wind Power's Flurry of Limitations3. Biofuels and the Politics of Big Corn4. The Nuclear-Military-Industrial Risk Complex 5. The Hydrogen Zombie6. Conjuring Clean Coal7. Hydropower, Hybrids, and other Hydras Part II: From Here to There8. The Alternative-Energy Fetish9. The First Step Part III: The Future of Environmentalism10. Women's Rights11. Improving Consumption12. The Architecture of Community13. Efficiency Culture14. Asking Questions Epilogue: A Grander Narrative?Resources for Future EnvironmentalismNotesIndex

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Book SynopsisThis book presents a methodology for the design, construction, monitoring, optimization, and post-occupancy evaluation of net-zero and positive-energy communities based on the experiences gained in the EU Horizon 2020 ZERO-PLUS project. It describes the steps, tools, and methods developed during the project, providing practical information for the energy and construction sector that will be of interest to students, engineers, architects, developers, and professionals working around high performance architecture and sustainable communities.Through the ZERO-PLUS project, a consortium of 32 partners from eight countries, including academic institutions, technology providers, architects, and construction companies, designed four communities covering completely different geo-climatic regions, construction practices, and cultural backgrounds in Cyprus, Italy, France, and the UK. The communities were designed, optimized, constructed, monitored, handed over to tenants, post-occuTable of ContentsForeword, 1. Introduction to net-zero and positive-energy communities, 2. Background: the current energy community implementation state in the EU, 3. Methodology: the ZERO-PLUS approach, 4. Part 1: UK case study, Part 2: Energy modeling of positive-energy dwellings, 5. Part 1: Italian case study, Part 2: Community-level strategies for microclimate mitigation and energy efficiency improvement, 6. Part 1: Cypriot case study, Part 2: Production and installation planning, 7. Part 1: French case study, Part 2: Project and design management – best practices and tools, 8. Part 1: Concentrating solar energy – the FAE system, Part 2: Bot-based building design, Part 3: Solar air-conditioning – the Freescoo system, 9. Monitoring and evaluation of the performance of positive-energy communities, 10. Post-occupancy evaluation: the missing link, Conclusions, or a more critical rethinking of the project, Index

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Book SynopsisThe expanding market share of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), driven by the secondary battery and electric vehicle markets, has consequently led to the accumulation of spent LIBs. This presents a unique business opportunity for recovering and recycling valuable metals from the spent lithium-ion cathode materials. Hydrometallurgical Recycling of Lithium-Ion Battery Materials provides a comprehensive review of the available hydrometallurgical technologies for recycling spent lithium-ion cathode active materials. The aim of this book is to raise awareness of LIB recycling, provide comprehensive knowledge of hydrometallurgical recycling of lithium cathode active materials, and promote an environmentally friendlier hydrometallurgical recycling process.Key Featuresâ Summarizes current recycling processes, challenges, and perspectivesâ Offers a comprehensive review of current commercialized LIB recycling companiesâ Showcases an innovative closed-loop hydromTable of ContentsChapter 1 Hydrometallurgical Recycling of Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode MaterialJoey Jung and Jiujun ZhangChapter 2 Current Commercial Hydrometallurgical Recycling Process Joey Jung and Jiujun ZhangChapter 3 RecycLiCoTM Recycling Process for Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode Active MaterialsJoey JungChapter 4 Closed-Loop Hydrometallurgical Processing Using LiOH for Coprecipitation and Electrodialysis for LiOH RegenerationJoey Jung and Jiujun ZhangChapter 5 Analysis of Mass Balance, Energy Consumption, and Economics of the Closed-Loop Hydrometallurgical Recycling Waste/Spent Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode Active MaterialsJoey Jung and Jiujun ZhangChapter 6 Modeling and Simulation on the Recycling Process of Spent Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode MaterialsPang-Chieh SuiChapter 7 Prospective Life Cycle Assessment Study of Hydrometallurgical Recycling Process with RecycLiCoTM Process and ElectrodialysisPhoebe Whattoff and Jordan Lindsey

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Book SynopsisDesigning an Innovative Pedagogy for Sustainable Development in Higher EducationThis book develops a green pedagogy and an innovation mindset in higher education by using approaches based on innovative design thinking, arts-based practices, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship for sustainable development. New pedagogical methods and educational solutions are developed throughout this book to offer pedagogical support to both students and university/college-level instructors. This book leads students as well as their instructors, through an artful and experimental way of thinking and doing, to take the ownership of the co-creation process. This is the basis for increasing social responsibility, motivation and commitment, and fostering creativity and innovation.An educational toolkit, including human-centric design methods, digital tools, creative and arts-based practices, innovation-related skills, and nascent and social entrepreTable of ContentsPreface. Editors. Contributors Bio. Introduction. 1. The Economics of Sustainable Development. 2. Sustainable Development in Higher Education: A Constructivist Conceptual Framework for Smart Learning and Education. 3. Cultural Heritage and Education for Sustainability. 4. “I Can Be the Beginning of What I Want to See in the World”: Outcomes of a Drama Workshop on Sustainability in Teacher Education. 5. Knowledge Creation and Sharing in Higher Education: The Long-Run Effect in Sustainable Development. 6. Entrepreneurship in Higher Education and Nascent Entrepreneurship. 7. Education in Social Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development: A Case Study in Teacher Education at the University of Athens, Greece. 8. Developing an Innovative Pedagogy for Sustainability in Higher Education. Index.

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Book SynopsisGenerally, sources for power generation are broken down into two categories: thermal and non-thermal. Thermal sources for power generation include combustion, geothermal, solar, nuclear, and waste heat, which essentially provide heat as a means for power generation. This book examines non-thermal (mechanical, electrochemical, nanoscale self-powered, and hybrid) sources of power generation and emphasizes recent advances in distributed power generation systems.Key Features Details recent advances made in wind power, including onshore, offshore, fixed and floating platform, and air wind energy systems, and offers detailed assessments of progress Covers advances in generation of hydropower, exploring dam hydropower, novel wave energy converters, and novel systems and turbines for hydrokinetic energy conversion to power Examines all types of fuel cells and their multi-functional roles, along with hybrid fuel cell systems in complete detaTable of Contents Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Advanced Wind Power Systems Chapter 3 Advances in Hydroelectricity Chapter 4 Advances in Fuel Cells for Power Generation Chapter 5 Advances in Multi-Functional and Hybrid Fuel Cells Chapter 6 Self-Powered Electrochemical Systems and Nanogenerators

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Book SynopsisThis book discusses the integration of power electronics, renewable energy, and the Internet of Things (IoT) from the perspective of smart cities in a single volume. The text will be helpful for senior undergraduate, graduate students and academic researchers in diverse engineering fields including electrical, electronics and communication, and computers. The book: Covers the integration of power electronics, energy harvesting, and the IoT for smart city applications Discusses concepts of power electronics and the IoT in electric vehicles for smart cities Examines the integration of power electronics in renewable energy for smart cities Discusses important concepts of energy harvesting including solar energy harvesting, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controllers, and switch-mode power supplies (SMPS) Explores IoT connectivity technologies such as long-term evolution (LTE), narrow band NB-IoT, long-range (LoRa), Bluetooth, and ZigBee (ITable of Contents 1. Fundamentals of Power Electronics in Smart Cities. 2. Fundamentals of Renewable Energy Resources for Smart Cities. 3. Fundamentals of Internet of Things (IoT) for Smart Cities. 4. Role and Applications of Power Electronics, Renewable Energy ;and IoT in Smart Cities. 5. Smart Grid Concept and Technologies for Smart Cities. 6. Smart Agriculture for Smart Cities. 7. Deep Learning-Based Autonomous Vehicle to Vehicle Detection for Smart Traffic Monitoring in Smart Cities. 8. Integration of Power Electronics in Renewable Energy for Smart Cities. 9. Integration of IoT in Renewable Energy for Smart Cities. 10. Power Electronics and IoT for Electric Vehicles in Smart Cities. 11: Machine Learning-Based DNS Traffic Monitoring for Securing IoT Networks. 12: Machine Learning in Power Electronics for Smart Cities. 13: Machine Learning in Renewable Energy Systems for Smart Cities.

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Book SynopsisAdvances in AI for Simulation and Optimization of Energy Systems explores AIâs groundbreaking role in the future of energy. As the demand for cleaner, more efficient energy systems grows, AIâdriven methodologies are leading the way in simulating and optimizing critical processes across the power generation, transmission, and storage sectors. Whether applied to traditional power grids, renewable energy systems, or energy markets, AI techniques such as neural networks, reinforcement learning, fuzzy logic, and metaheuristic optimization are revolutionizing how energy systems are modeled and managed.This comprehensive volume offers: Inâdepth chapters on AIâdriven simulation and optimization strategies Case studies that demonstrate realâworld applications of AI in energy systems An examination of the ethical concerns and legal frameworks surrounding AI Cuttingâedge methodologies for improving energy technologiesâ accuracy, efficiency, and performance Bringing together leading researchers and practitioners in AI and energy systems, this book is an invaluable resource for academics, engineers, and professionals who want to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving field.

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Book SynopsisThe first volume is presented in two parts, covering radiation physics and natural radiation exposure.It first explores the discovery and physics of the phenomenon of radioactivity, covering the discovery of radioactive decay and the historical development of the physics and applications of radioactivity through to 1940. Chapters then present descriptive summaries of the physics of the atom and the atomic nucleus, mass and energy conditions, the nature of isotopes, and the different decay patterns. Chapter three discusses decay laws and introduces natural origins of radioactivity as well as methods for producing radioactive isotopes through nuclear reaction processes in reactor and accelerator. The book then provides an introduction on dosimetry, radiation chemistry and impact of radiation on biological systems.The second half of the book details natural radioactivity and the role of radioactivity in the formation of the planetary system and our Earth. The author describes how the inner radioactivity of our planet determines its dynamics and how it could have contributed to the origins of life. The volume concludes with an exploration of the external and internal radioactivity to which humans are exposed and their possible side effects.The second volume is presented in two parts, covering its development and modern applications.It first explores the development and applications of technically enhanced natural radioactivity (TENR) and addresses nuclear energy sources, the fission and fusion processes, and the issues of radioactive fallout from nuclear weapon use and test programs. Later chapters explore the cutting-edge medical applications of radioactive materials in diagnostics and therapy, exploring nuclear medicine technologies such as x-ray tomography, brachytherapy, and positron emission tomography (PET). They also detail the broad range of applications of radioactive materials in industrial production processes, in the sterilization of tools and materials in the medical and the food industries, and in the analysis of art and archaeological material to analyse paintings and painting techniques to identify fakes and forgeries. The book concludes with a discussion of the societal impact and understanding of radioactivity, alongside detailing the underlying reasons for its negative preconceptions and the possible mitigation of these through better education and information practices.These books will be of interest to non-science undergraduates and nuclear astrophysics physics graduate students looking for an introduction to radioactivity, in addition to interested laypeople.Key Features: Written in an accessible style, to be understood by readers without a formal scientific education Highly illustrated throughout Authored by an expert in the field, drawing from decades of experience in experimental nuclear physics

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Book SynopsisThis book tells the story of visionary urban experiments, shedding light on the theories that preceded their development and on the monsters that followed and might be the end of our cities. The narrative is threefold and delves first into the eco-city, second the smart city and third the autonomous city intended as a place where existing smart technologies are evolving into artificial intelligences that are taking the management of the city out of the hands of humans.The book empirically explores Masdar City in Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong to provide a critical analysis of eco and smart city experiments and their sustainability, and it draws on numerous real-life examples to illustrate the rise of urban artificial intelligences across different geographical spaces and scales. Theoretically, the book traverses philosophy, urban studies and planning theory to explain the passage from eco and smart cities to the autonomous city, and to reflect on the meaning and purpose of cities in a time when human and non-biological intelligences are irreversibly colliding in the built environment.Iconoclastic and prophetic, Frankenstein Urbanism is both an examination of the evolution of urban experimentation through the lens of Mary Shelleyâs Frankenstein, and a warning about an urbanism whose product resembles Frankensteinâs monster: a fragmented entity which escapes human control and human understanding. Academics, students and practitioners will find in this book the knowledge that is necessary to comprehend and engage with the many urban experiments that are now alive, ready to leave the laboratory and enter our cities.Trade Review'Federico Cugurullo draws inspiration and an analytical framing from Mary Shelley’s masterpiece to examine what he terms Frankenstein urbanism: experimental urban development designed to create sustainability that emerges with monstrous effects. His analysis is a powerful critique of the discursive and material creation of eco-cities, smart cities, and the coming autonomous city.'Rob Kitchin, Professor of Human Geography, National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Ireland'In Frankenstein Urbanism, Cugurullo masterfully combines science fiction literature with an analysis of real-life cities, to show that fiction and reality are indistinguishable in our quest for autonomous urban futures. This is a theoretically bold and empirically rich book that illustrates how the current obsession about sentient cities is built upon the grand utopian gestures of smart and eco-city experiments turning into Frankenstein monsters. This book will be essential reading material for all those interested in the theory of urban futures as well as in the practical future of smart urbanism.'Ayona Datta, Professor in Human Geography, University College London, UK'Does the new smart urbanity create a sort of Frankenstein monster, built with good intentions but turning against its masters? This book demonstrates that the only way out of the nightmare of Frankenstein urbanism is to begin loving our monsters. Leaving the city in the hands of technocrats only leads to a monstrous urbanism. That is why a public and politically engaging urbanity is urgently required. And this is precisely what the lessons of this book implore us to do.'Erik Swyngedouw, Professor of Geography, The University of Manchester, UK'In this outstanding volume, Federico Cugurullo examines how humanity’s search for ideal cities- with their corresponding ideal societies- at times produces monsters. Frankenstein is an apt metaphor because, like the monster, the experimental forms of urbanism that Cugurullo discusses are terrifying but also very much alive. Well-documented case-studies in Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong explore the ambiguities and elitism of smart cities, perhaps the most salient manifestation of experimental urbanism. Cugurullo masterfully explains the futility and dangers of technological innovation without an overarching vision of urban futures. However, he argues that, rather than rejecting technology, we should approach it cautiously within a collective inquiry into the type of city that we want.Vanesa Castán Broto, Professorial Fellow, Urban Institute, University of Sheffield, UK'By mobilising a narrative of monstrosity, Frankenstein Urbanism builds a stunningly effective critique of the contemporary literatures, practices and consequences of the smart city. A compelling and vivid contemplation of some of the most pressing concerns about technology, its related ideologies, and the current condition of our cities.'Alberto Vanolo, Professor of Political and Economic Geography, Università di Torino, Italy'Frankenstein Urbanism is a profound critique of smart and eco-cities and of the recent city of artificial intelligence. Federico Cugurullo remarkably discovers that the rationale for making these cities is analogically similar to the experiment that creates Frankenstein’s monster. Focusing on Masdar City and Hong Kong, the book provocatively rethinks what urbanism is in the technologically oriented initiatives transforming our cities.' Fulong Wu, Bartlett Chair of Planning, University College London, UK'Viewing city development through the lens of Shelley’s early science fiction makes for good storytelling as well as thoughtful analysis of the case studies of Masdar City and Hong Kong. Like many portrayals of future cities, this is a dystopian tale and a fascinating journey for planning practitioners or academics interested in the past, present, or future structure of cities. Cugurullo’s Frankenstein holds open the chances for us to better understand our assumptions, improve upon the science, or choose not to experiment at all.'Thomas W. Sanchez, Journal of the American Planning Association'Frankenstein Urbanism represents an ambitious blend of theory and fieldwork. The book traces the far-reaching ancestries of contemporary imaginaries and charts an important and measured path forward for both theorists and practitioners of the urban. Throughout, references to Shelley’s Frankenstein serve as more than a simple metaphor, clarifying the stakes of urban experiments in a visceral and insightful way.'Nathan Olmstead, Urban Studies Journal Table of Contents1. Prologue: of cities and monsters Part 1: The Literature 2. Theories of ecological urbanism 3. Theories of smart urbanism Part 2: The Experiment 4. An eco-city experiment: the case of Masdar City 5. A smart-city experiment: the case of Hong Kong Part 3: The Apocalypse 6. Urban equations come alive 7. Artificial Intelligence and the rise of the autonomous city 8. Epilogue: the eclipse of urban reason

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Book SynopsisThe refurbishment of existing buildings is a crucial yet often neglected subject within sustainable architecture; attention is usually focused on new buildings. Many old buildings waste large amounts of energy and provide poor internal conditions for occupants through poor lighting, poor ventilation, solar penetration and glare, and poor control of heating and cooling. Demolition is an option but the refurbishment alternative is increasingly seen as more sustainable in terms of architectural value, materials use, neighbourhood disruption and waste disposal. In addition, the potential impact of low energy refurbishment is much greater than that for new build since there are many more buildings already in existence than will be built in the next 10 - 20 years, the period over which many CO2 emission targets apply. The Handbook of Sustainable Refurbishment: Non-Domestic Buildings offers architects, engineers and a wide range of building professionals practical advice, illustrated by realTrade Review'An incisive book that provides practical strategies and tactics for sustainable refurbishment, literally from the ground up. Richly illustrated with informative diagrams, supported by accessible quantitative analysis, and reinforced by detailed case study examples, this book is a triumph.' Koen Steemers PhD RIBA/ARB, Professor of Sustainable Design and Head of the Department of Architecture, University of Cambridge 'Nick Baker tackles head on what many eminent scientists in Cambridge regard as most pressing contemporary problems, the sustainable refurbishment of the existing building stock, much of which is going to be with us still in 2050. Dr. Baker delivers his profound understanding of these difficult issues in a wholly intelligible and compelling way. I cannot commend this book to my profession and its patrons highly enough.' Professor Alan Short, University of Cambridge and Short and Associates Architects 'Definitely worth reading, learning from and implementing the practical experience of the REVIVAL team.' Building Engineer Magazine 'Innovative ideas for improvements, which may become increasingly necessary in the coming years ... a challenging and interesting read, providing complex technical solutions to issues which require a full understanding of building pathology.' Context Journal, Institute of Historic Building Conservation 'Challenging and interesting read.' Context, IHBC 'The Hanbook of Sustainable Refurbishment offers practical advice illustrated by real examples'. DETAIL Magazine 'A very useful introduction to the subject ... appropriate for younger professionals and also for their more experienced colleagues who may be contemplating undertaking sustainable refurbishment for the first time.' Proceedings of the Institute of Civil EngineersTable of ContentsPart I 1: Strategies for sustainable refurbishment. Part II 2: Floors 3: Walls 4: Roofs 5: Windows 6: Atria and Double Skins 7: Mechanical Plant and Controls 8: Renewable Energy Options Part III: Case Studies 9. The Albatros, Den Hedler, Nedtherlands 10. Lycee Chevrollier, Angers, France 11. Daneshill House, Stevenage, UK 12. Ministry of Finance Offices, Athens 13. The Meyer Hospital, Florence, Italy

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Book Synopsis'The Jevons Paradox', which was first expressed in 1865 by William Stanley Jevons in relation to use of coal, states that an increase in efficiency in using a resource leads to increased use of that resource rather than to a reduction. This has subsequently been proved to apply not just to fossil fuels, but other resource use scenarios. For example, doubling the efficiency of food production per hectare over the last 50 years (due to the Green Revolution) did not solve the problem of hunger. The increase in efficiency increased production and worsened hunger because of the resulting increase in population. The implications of this in today's world are substantial. Many scientists and policymakers argue that future technological innovations will reduce consumption of resources; the Jevons Paradox explains why this may be a false hope. This is the first book to provide a historical overview of the Jevons Paradox, provide evidence for its existence and apply it to complex systems. Written and edited by world experts in the fields of economics, ecological economics, technology and the environment, it explains the myth of efficiency and explores its implications for resource usage (particularly oil). It is a must-read for policymakers, natural resource managers, academics and students concerned with the effects of efficiency on resource use.Trade Review'Given both the importance of the topic and the analytical and policy vacuum that surrounds it, a book devoted to Jevons Paradox is both timely and welcome ... [it] contain(s) a great deal of valuable material.' - Steve Sorrell, Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex'This extraordinary and timely book focuses on a basic problem involved in achieving major energy conservation. As the authors explain, the Jevons Paradox emphasizes that simply reducing energy use in one system actually often results in increasing energy use in another system. The issue of sustainability cannot be handled just by looking for silver bullets ...' -David Pimentel, Professor Emeritus, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University 'Efficiency first does not give frugality second; it makes frugality less necessary. But if we seek frugality first we get efficiency second as an adaptation to scarcity. Recognizing the Jevons Paradox, this book cogently argues, is the major key to a rational energy policy. Highly recommended!' -Herman E. Daly, Professor at the School Of Public Affairs, University Of Maryland, and former senior economist in the Environment Department of the World Bank 'This book is the most comprehensive attempt at dismantling the efficiency myth: it examines the subject from a variety of practical and theoretical perspectives, and while it may leave an unsuspecting reader rather depressed it leaves all of us better prepared to face the reality.' -Vaclav Smil, FRSC, Distinguished Professor, University Of Manitoba, Canada 'A thoughtful compilation of the best multidisciplinary approaches to modeling energy and resource use, looking at the extent to which energy efficiency leads to increased consumption and if so, how this price-determined effect can be mitigated.'- Hazel Henderson, Ethical Markets 'A remarkable and unsettling critique of energy policy.' - Crosslands Bulletin'In this thought provoking book , the authors follow the Jevrons Paradox from its originator through time to our current debate on resource use and sustainability.'-Clean Technologies and Environmental PolicyTable of ContentsForeword by Joseph A. Tainter * Introduction * Historical Overview of the Jevons Paradox in the Literature * The Jevons Paradox: The Evolution of Complex Adaptive Systems and the Challenge for Scientific Analysis * Empirical Evidence for the Jevons Paradox * Conclusion * Index

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Book SynopsisThis academic, multi-author reference work serves as a general and non-technical resource for students and teachers to understand the importance of energy; to appreciate the influence of energy on societies around the world; to learn the history of energy; and to initiate educational discussion brought forth by the specific social and topical articles presented in the work. SCOPE AND COVERAGE From Alaska to China to Brazil and around the world, energy is the fuel of modern civilization. The United States alone, which constitutes 5 percent of the world's population, consumes 24 percent of the world's energy. Tracing the routes and roots of energy through history, especially since the Industrial Revolution, and explaining the current levels of energy use and production across the globe, this four-volume encyclopaedia will be the definitive reference to essential energy and power information. From ""clean coal"" to oil to windpower, from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, the Encyclopedia of Energy is a world round-up of energy-related curricular disciplines, including: history, sociology, environmentalism, public policy, science, engineering, and business. Especially targeted toward high-school students, this outstanding reference work is edited to tie into the high-school curriculum, making the content readily accessible as well to patrons of public, academic, and university libraries. Pedagogical elements include a Topic Finder, Chronology, Resource Guide, Glossary, Appendix, and thorough index. Presented in four volumes in an A-to-Z format, the Encyclopedia of Energy is richly illustrated with photos, charts, and tables, all comprising a unique resource.

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Book SynopsisOil and coal have built our civilization, created our wealth, and enriched the lives of billions. Yet, their rising costs to our security, economy, health, and environment now outweigh their benefits. Moreover, that long-awaited energy tipping point—where alternatives work better than oil and coal and compete purely on cost—is no longer decades in the future. It is here and now. And it is the fulcrum of economic transformation. A global clean-energy race has emerged with astounding speed. The ability to operate without fossil fuels will define winners and losers in business—and among nations. In Reinventing Fire, Amory Lovins and Rocky Mountain Institute offer a new vision to revitalize business models, end-run Washington gridlock, and win the clean-energy race—not forced by public policy but led by business for enduring profit. This groundbreaking roadmap reveals market-based solutions across the transportation, building, industry, and electricity sectors. It highlights pathways and competitive strategies for a 158%-bigger 2050 U.S. economy that needs no oil, no coal, no nuclear energy, one-third less natural gas, and no new inventions. This transition would cost $5 trillion less than business-as-usual—without counting fossil fuels’ huge hidden costs. It requires no new federal taxes, subsidies, mandates, or laws. The policy innovations needed to unlock and speed it need no Act of Congress. Whether you care most about profits and jobs, national security, health, or environmental stewardship, Reinventing Fire charts a pragmatic course that makes sense and makes money. With clarity and mastery, Lovins and RMI point out the astounding opportunities for enterprises to create the new energy era. Drawing praise from President Bill Clinton, former National Security Advisor Robert McFarlane, and a host of others, Reinventing Fire has piqued the interest of world leaders, business leaders, and political strategists. The paperback will carry a new preface detailing the response from China and beyond.Trade ReviewBook News- Author Lovins, a government consultant on energy, is co-founder and chief scientist of Rocky Mountain Institute, an independent think-tank on the use of natural resources. In this color illustrated book for business leaders and others, Lovins predicts that if businesses start now to adopt currently available alternative energy technologies at normal rates of return, the US can realistically stop using oil and coal by 2050, for a savings of $5 trillion. The author argues that because the necessary legislation and public policy are already in place for the transition to clean power, the transition can come about through market-based innovation across many different industries. After explaining the true costs of oil and coal, the book focuses on transportation, building design, improvements in industry energy efficiency, and carbon-free electricity generation. The book's reader-friendly layout includes color photos, charts, and case and example boxes on every page, combined with an accessible writing style. While the contributors are all affiliated with Rocky Mountain Institute, the book's content has been reviewed by outside experts as well. A web site offers supporting methodological and technical material.Choice- Energy forms the basis of modern living and is tied to every country's economic, political, social, health, and environmental policies. This well-documented work by energy expert Lovins (cofounder, Rocky Mountain Institute) and RMI staff begins by discussing the growing economic and environmental impact of fossil fuel dependence. Next, separate chapters address four different energy-intensive sectors in the US: transportation, buildings, industry, and electricity. Each chapter includes data on current energy consumption along with ways to change existing patterns (e.g., new designs, renewable sources, more-efficient practices). The concluding chapter ‘Many Choices, One Future,’ looks at the US in 2050: shortened workdays, decreased road traffic, a cleaner atmosphere, and a huge amount of capital formerly wasted on fossil fuels available to address various social challenges. This assumes that the path charted in ‘Reinventing Fire’ is at work. The authors argue that their proposal is economically feasible and would create jobs, positively impact the environment, and enhance the global competitiveness of the US. Among the barriers listed, the resistance of political incumbents and an absence of visionary political leaders committed to these fundamental changes stand out. A must read for anyone who deals with energy, especially decision makers. Summing up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals; general readers.ForeWord Reviews- Reinventing Fire is an engaging and comprehensive introduction to the issues and challenges tied to our nation's energy use. Amory Lovins is a noted authority on energy—especially its efficient use and sustainable supply. In 2009, Time named him among the world's 100 most influential people, and Foreign Policy, one of the 100 top global thinkers. In 1982, Lovins co-founded the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), an independent, nonprofit think tank focused on the ‘efficient and restorative use of resources.’ The team's expertise is evident, as Lovins and fellow RMI researchers outline the current state of energy use, including what they call the nation's "addiction to fossil fuels," and propose an array of transformational solutions. Their long-term view emphasizes smart business strategy over public policy as the route to the ‘new energy era.’ The ‘winners’ in this new era will be those companies, organizations—and even nations—nimble and innovative enough to anticipate and realize the opportunities. Following a review of our energy profile today, the book sets the stage with two contrasting scenarios for energy consumption in 2050, one that is ‘business as usual’ and one that ‘reinvents fire.’ The optimal scenario would reduce overall energy consumption through innovation and efficiency, while increasing use of renewable sources and bringing a multitude of benefits—to the economy and the environment, as well as to our health and national security. The challenges posed by this book are at once inspirational and daunting, but Reinventing Fire makes it clear that facing them with passion and ingenuity is essential to our future prosperity as a people and a nation."Amory and his 'reinventing fire' energy path should be part of the induction packs for all political, financial and business leaders."--John Elkington, The GuardianReinventing Fire shows us that we neither need to freeze in the dark, nor go back to the Stone Age, to ensure a healthy, habitable planet for ourselves and our descendants.--Andy Kerr, Home Power "In crisp and vivid language, Amory Lovins sets out a blueprint for a much-improved future in the generation and use of energy. We can all learn from reading this clear statement from a real expert."--George P. Shultz, former Secretary of State and Secretary of the Treasury, distinguished fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution, former president of Bechtel"My friend Amory Lovins knows that the most important question of the twenty-first century is the 'how' question-how we turn good ideas into working solutions. Reinventing Fire is a wise, detailed, and comprehensive blueprint for gathering the best existing technologies for energy use and putting them to work right now to create jobs, end our dependence on climate-changing fossil fuels, and unleash the enormous economic potential of the coming energy revolution."--President Bill Clinton"If you wanted to bring America happiness and prosperity, and address unemployment, government gridlock and climate change, and create meaning in a world rife with contradictory views and ideologies, you can do one thing: read Reinventing Fire...and then see to it that it is read by every decision maker in the land. This is a stunning work of enormous dimension. Reinventing Fire outlines an eminently practical path to a durable and meaningful future by reimagining how we use and produce the lifeblood of civilization-energy in its myriad forms."--Paul Hawken, author of Blessed Unrest; co-author, Natural Capitalism"Amory Lovins and his team of extraordinary professionals provide an analytically sound, detailed, compelling plan for transforming our national use of energy-and for saving $5 trillion in the process! Reinventing Fire is a towering work, a page-turning tour de force of compelling wisdom that deserves a permanent place on the desk-nay, in the mind-of whoever holds the chair in the Oval Office."--Robert C. McFarlane, national security advisor to President Reagan; co-founder and co-chair of the United States Energy Security Council"America's business leaders have long waited for a practical vision of how innovation and entrepreneurship can drive the shift from fossil fuels to efficiency and renewables. Now, in Reinventing Fire, that profit-led path is here, clear, and compelling."--Gerald D. Hines, founder and chairman, Hines"Reinventing Fire crackles with fresh perspectives and compelling insights about our energy past, present, and future. Drawing on the logic of economics, physics, geology, national security, and just plain common sense, Lovins and his colleagues blaze a trail toward an energy future that is cleaner, cheaper, and safer. A 'must read' book for business leaders, policymakers, environmentalists, academics, and anyone else who cares about our planet's future and our nation's prosperity."--Dan Esty, Director, Center for Business and the Environment at Yale University, and author of Green to Gold"A compelling call for action. From one of the brightest and most practical thinkers in America-straight from the heart, bold advice to America on how to handle energy, reduce the budget deficit, and create millions of jobs. Amory Lovins has written the definitive prescription for the twenty-first century American economy. Take these prescriptions on energy, and the rest of America will do quite nicely in the years ahead. Ignore these recommendations, and we'll find ourselves in a darkening struggle for our prosperity, our future, and our way of life."--Retired General Wesley K. Clark, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, Europe"A must-read 'new baseline' analysis for innovators and policy makers."--Bill Joy, partner, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers; co-founder, Sun Microsystems"A brilliant, thorough, innovative plan for a complete and profitable restructuring over the next four decades of how we use and supply energy for transport, electricity, buildings, and industry. RMI's new fire will transform everything we do, and will especially help us see our way out of the massive problems caused by our dependence on oil and coal."--R. James Woolsey, venture partner, Lux Capital; former director of Central Intelligence; chairman, Foundation for Defense of Democracies

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Book SynopsisYour building has the potential to change the world. Existing buildings consume approximately 40 percent of the energy and emit nearly half of the carbon dioxide in the US each year. In recognition of the significant contribution of buildings to climate change, the idea of building green has become increasingly popular. But is it enough? If an energy-efficient building is new construction, it may take 10 to 80 years to overcome the climate change impacts of the building process. New buildings are sexy, but few realize the value in existing buildings and how easy it is to get to "zero energy" or low-energy consumption through deep energy retrofits. Existing buildings can and should be retrofit to reduce environmental impacts that contribute to climate change, while improving human health and productivity for building occupants. In The Power of Existing Buildings, academic sustainability expert Robert Sroufe, and construction and building experts Craig Stevenson and Beth Eckenrode, explain how to realize the potential of existing buildings and make them perform like new. This step-by-step guide will help readers to: understand where to start a project; develop financial models and realize costs savings; assemble an expert team; and align goals with numerous sustainability programs. The Power of Existing Buildings will challenge you to rethink spaces where people work and play, while determining how existing buildings can save the world. The insights and practical experience of Sroufe, Stevenson, and Eckenrode, along with the project case study examples, provide new insights on investing in existing buildings for building owners, engineers, occupants, architects, and real estate and construction professionals. The Power of Existing Buildings helps decision-makers move beyond incremental changes to holistic, results-oriented solutions.

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