TRANSITIONING TO A SUSTAINABLE ENERGY ECONOMY: THE CALL FOR NATIONAL COOPERATIVE WATERSHED PLANNING

摘要

Recent developments in the Middle East have underscored the national security concerns that arise from America s reliance on foreign fuels. While Americans stand enraptured by scenes broadcast from the epicenter of historic national uprisings, feelings of hope and support for the advancement of democratic principles are mingled with concerns about how this could impact us at the pump. Breaking America s dependence on foreign oil is but one driving factor leading policymakers to call for the transformation of the United States energy economy. Climate change is another-and both energy-based challenges are causing policymakers to chart a course toward a "sustainable energy economy," one that incorporates clean energy technology and the increased use of water-intensive domestic renewable fuels and nuclear power.