ENV21500

The United States and other industrialized countries account for about twenty percent of the world's population and almost eighty percent of the world's energy consumption. Conservation efforts seem to fall on deaf ears, as we continue to guzzle gasoline, cruise the open roads, build poorly insulated homes, and produce energy rich goods. Not only are we using up our resources, but we are polluting our environment in the process. Students in this course will examine the nature of the major energy industries in the U.S., including the economics and politics of oil, gas, and electricity and the environmental consequences of our current consumption patterns. We will re-examine energy conservation in the light of current economic policy, and look at the future of 'alternative' energy sources and sustainable energy use. Students will be encouraged to undertake individualized research projects as well as participate in class and short field trips.NOTES: There will be some short field courses. Students should anticipate covering food expenses for themselves during those trips.