J.C. Moore Online

Current Events from a Science Perspective.

Energy and the Environment

  • Wind Energy and Bird Mortality

    One of the main concerns raised about the use of wind turbines is their effect on bird mortality. Though they sometimes do kill birds, the number killed by wind turbines is small when compared to those killed by other of man’s activities. Read more

  • A Politically Viable Alternative to Cap and Trade

    Dr. Theda Skocpol’s research shows that Congress is too polarized to ever pass cap and trade legislation . She said the best choice to reduce carbon emissions would be a carbon tax with the revenue generated to be distributed equally to all US taxpayers as an energy dividend.. Read more

  • Should the U.S. Subsidize Fossil Fuel Companies?

    Though fossil fuel companies are some of the most profitable in the world, they receive upward of $750 billion in subsidies from the world’s governments. At a time when carbon emissions are continuing to rise and many countries are facing economic problems, it is time to examine whether these subsidies are really necessary. Read more

  • Who Wants to Kill the Electric Car?*

    Who wants to kill the electric car? Apparently, a lot of people do. Based on a flawed economic analysis, John Peterson makes a case that it is a house of cards that must fall. However, this article points out the flaws in his analysis. Read more

  • What Does the Solyndra Bankruptcy Mean?

    No one knows what the Solyndra bankruptcy means, but it should not be used to derail our investments in alternative energy. Estimates are that growth in solar panel production will increase fivefold by 2020. Read more

  • Is There a Ban on Incandescent Bulbs ?

    An Investor Business Daily editorial decries the ban on incandescent light bulb as a product of our “nanny state.” There is now a bill before Congress, HR 91, that the Investors Business Daily claims will remove the ban on incandescent bulbs. However, there is not a ban on their use. This article addresses some of… Read more

  • The EPA vs. Oklahoma Power Companies

    The EPA has been charged with reducing the pollutants released into the environment, but they are meeting opposition from power companies, politicians, and people who want cheap energy, though other people’s health and the environment may suffer the consequences . Read more

  • The Problem with Coal and Politicians

    Coal fired power plants are the greatest source of carbon emissions, particulates, mercury, and acidic gases. The EPA has been charged with reducing the pollutants released into the environment, but they are meeting opposition from power companies, politicians, and people who want cheap energy, though others and the environment may suffer the consequences. Read more

  • Arsenic and the Water of Death

    High levels of arsenic in water supplies have led to the water being poisonous. This is an analysis of the physical and chemical properties of arsenic that contribute to the water becoming toxic. Read more

  • Nominations for the 2010 Environmental Hall of Fame/Shame

    Nominations are now being taken for the 2010 Environmental Hall of Fame/Shame until January 15, 2011. Please nominate your favorite. Read more