Americans consume a lot of energy. They frequently drive, and use air conditioners, dryers, and other energy-gobbling appliances. Many people say that maintaining a comfortable lifestyle means consuming a lot of energy, and reducing consumption would result in a less satisfying life. However, using energy contributes to climate change, and a recent report suggests that Americans could reduce their energy consumption and still live long, happy lives. Listen to hear what people and governments can do to reduce energy use and then debate: Can Americans live well with less energy?
Story Length: 3:49
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May 17, 2021
5:36
In his early days in office, President Biden has made fighting climate change a top priority. He has pledged to invest heavily in green technologies and restore the U.S. to its role as a world leader in the fight against global warming. While many consider the issue to be a high priority, the president also faces resistance to his efforts. Listen to former Secretary of State John Kerry, appointed by Biden as a special climate envoy, discuss the president’s plan and why he considers climate change to be such an urgent issue.
Read MoreFebruary 22, 2021
3:25
A huge power outage in Texas has left millions of people without electricity. The crisis occurred when a storm brought frigid temperatures causing equipment to freeze in every part of the state’s power generation system, including wind turbines, natural gas wells, and coal and nuclear plants. The cold weather was unusual for Texas, but experts say the state needs to prepare its power systems for more extreme weather events in the future. Listen to learn more about the crisis and how politicians are discussing it in the media.
Read MoreJanuary 10, 2020
4:34
Renewable resources are said to provide “clean” energy that does not harm the planet. Some say wood is renewable, arguing that trees can be replanted, and that the carbon dioxide released by burning wood is eventually reabsorbed by the new trees, making them “carbon neutral.” Others dispute the math used to calculate carbon neutrality since it takes so many years to regrow a forest. Listen to hear why the U.S. is sending millions of tons of wood pellets to Europe for burning and then debate: Should wood be considered renewable energy?
Read MoreSeptember 5, 2019
5:15
Renewable energy sources like solar power can help protect the environment and lower people’s electricity bills. Unfortunately, not everyone is benefitting equally from alternative energy sources and the technologies that harness them. One African-American solar technology professional is trying to reverse this trend. Listen to learn how he is bringing renewable energy to communities of color in Nashville and why this goal is so important to him.
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