This book presents a contemporary view of such topics as current energy technology and energy types, including nuclear power, solar power, fossil-carbon based energy, and biomass fuels; research and development needs; the greenhouse effect; agricultural concerns; and byproducts of energy use, including acid rain and hazardous waste. The book reviews current techynology and addresses the global impact of this technology by weighing the costs aginst the benefits. Suggestions and solutions to problems are provided for consideration. Conservationists, regulators, policy makers, environmental professionals, researchers, educators, consultants, and students will find this book to be a tremendous asset in their attempts to understand the impacts of our current energy use on the environment and the directions we must take in the future.