Scientific American Special Editions

June 2009

FEATURES

Bamboo Boom: Is This Material for You?
It's not just for tiki torches anymore, but does this wood substitute really make for greener floors, clothing and other products?
By Michelle Nijhuis

The Arctic Thaw Could Make Global Warming Worse
The melting Arctic is releasing vast quantities of methane. How big is this greenhouse threat? What can be done?
By Sarah Simpson

Can Captured Carbon Save Coal-Fired Power?
Extracting carbon dioxide from power plant exhaust and storing it underground may be the only hope to avoid a climate change catastrophe caused by burning fossil fuels
By David Biello

How Local Solutions Can Have Global Climate Impact
Scientists and policymakers should focus more on how local communities can adapt to climate change
By Anna Barnett

The Persistent Prophet--Lester Brown's New-Found Optimism
Lester Brown, at times ridiculed, has been warning the world for 40 years about coalescing energy, food and population crises. So why is he optimistic now?
By Barbara Crossette

Top 25 Green Energy Leaders
Forward-thinking companies, universities and municipalities are finding creative ways to run on renewable power
By Katherine Harmon

Population and Sustainability: Can We Avoid Limiting the Number of People?
Slowing the rise in human numbers is essential for the planet--but it doesn't require population control
By Robert Engelman

Cash for Clunkers: A Fair Trade for the Environment
"Hey! Trade in your old, soot-spewing car for a newer one. Free." The latest scam? Not according to a former vice chair of the Federal Reserve
By Stephen D. Solomon