Solutions to environmental problems ranging from global warming to peak oil--and how the environment is playing a role in this year's elections
Earth 3.0
Scientific American editor Mark Fischetti talks about Earth 3.0, a new SciAm publication concerning energy, sustainability and the environment. And ScientificAmerican.com writer Larry Greenemeier discusses the interface between nanotech and biology. Plus, we'll test your knowledge about some recent science in the news. Web sites mentioned in this episode include www.sciamearth3.com
To Drill or Not to Drill? Energy Policy Surfaces in Colorado's Senate Race
Politicians, environmentalists and industry clash over the leasing of public lands for natural gas drilling on Colorado's rugged Roan Plateau
Where Do the Presidential Candidates Stand on Environment and Energy?
From drilling for oil to climate change, the answers may surprise you
California's Political Environment May Prove Too Toxic for Green Energy Propositions
Myriad special interests combined with state budget woes mire two environmentally friendly ballot initiatives
Scientists Get Wind of Why Coasts Cool as the Globe Warms
Climatic conundrum may help the Los Angeles Basin and California's wine country dodge a bullet as the world warms
Buying Green: 7 Ecofriendly Products
SciAm takes a look at new products, from environmentally friendly suede jackets to biodegradable toilet paper
For National Security, Get Off Oil
Former CIA director, R. James Woolsey, says America's oil dependence is a grave threat
"Voluntourism": See the World--And Help Conserve It
"Voluntourism" ramps the ecological impulse up a notch, providing ways for vacationers to help save the world's sustainable resources
LEED Compliance Not Required for Designing Green Buildings
Constructing buildings to the LEED standard can conserve energy and materials-or be exploited for promotional gain
Energy versus Water: Solving Both Crises Together
Water is needed to generate energy. Energy is needed to deliver water. Both resources are limiting the other—and both may be running short. Is there a way out?
Global Warming: Beyond the Tipping Point
The world's most outspoken climatologist argues that today's carbon dioxide levels are already dangerously too high. What can we do if he is right?
Biofuels or Food?: Can Crops Feed Our Cars--And the Hungry?
To improve policies on crop use, invest in better science
The Future of Climate Change Policy: The U.S.'s Last Chance to Lead
McCain or Obama can end shameful U.S. foot-dragging and rally the world against climate change
Growing Vertical: Skyscraper Farming
Cultivating crops in downtown skyscrapers might save bushels of energy and provide city dwellers with distinctively fresh food
Is Focusing on "Hot Spots" the Key to Preserving Biodiversity?
Preserving biodiversity in rich habitats is good. But global warming and other new threats may call for a new strategy
SciAm Test Drives Two Street-Legal Fuel-Cell Cars
We put the hydrogen-powered Chevy Equinox and Honda Clarity to the test
12 Ways to Lessen Your Footprint
Twelve easy steps to take to make your life a little greener
Eco-Cities: Urban Planning for the Future
Massive developments proposed for the U.S., China and Abu Dhabi aim to reduce or even eliminate the environmental cost of city living