PBS' Nightly Business Report Explores the Alternatives for Fuel and Energy via InvestorIdeas.com

Driven by serious climate issues, dwindling resources, and stiff geopolitical pressure, green options for fuel and energy have skyrocketed to the forefront of global concern and necessity. But what are the options and when will they be available? In a special 4-part series running Tuesday, May 13 through Friday, May 16, PBS’ Nightly Business Report examines some alternative energy forms and the challenges they face in their race to the marketplace.

“Renewable, greener energy isn’t just an issue for the scientists and environmentalists, it’s an issue for the business world as well—and a major one at that.” explained Rodney Ward, Executive Editor/Senior Vice President, Nightly Business Report. “This series examines many of the current programs, resources, and companies that will be shaping our future.”

Series overview:

Tuesday, May 13th: Demand for grain is more intense than ever now that ethanol manufacturers are using the same agricultural resources as food producers. To meet the need for both biofuel and food, the Monsanto Company is growing corn that uses little water, and seed that can grow more corn from a single plant. The research is not without controversy, though, since bioengineered crops remain banned in most countries around the world.

Wednesday, May 14th: In Florida, scientists are using pulverized sugar cane to create ethanol. Known as cellulosic ethanol, sugar cane is not its only source material, and with modifications, it could be created from any green plant. The trick is lowering production costs to make it viable. Answers should come next year when Florida Crystals’ sugar mill begins small-scale production.

Thursday, May 15th: Biotech company Zymetis has created a bacterium that can turn materials like scrap paper, pulp and woodchips into ethanol, which can eventually fuel your car. The first challenge is obtaining enough raw material to process into ethanol on a large scale. Another issue is transporting the ethanol from the factory to the pump, which could potentially negate many of ethanol’s environmental gains.

Friday, May 16th: Methane hydrate - a frozen gas - is a fossil fuel that exists in abundance in many areas throughout the world. The problem is that extracting methane hydrate is costly, and could potentially trigger environmental catastrophe. NBR speaks to a Japanese research team that is leading the effort to extract and harness this potentially viable resource.