Question

Reinventing Fire: Amory B. Lovins

1. Lovins discusses several policies that would lead to a more efficient transportation network. Discuss at least two. Do you think they are practical?

Answer 1

In his book ,Reinventing fire Amory Lovins stated that renewable energy like solar and wind are cheaper than fossil fuels and so US should give up fossil fuels energy and convert to renewable energy.He said that if US rely totally on renewable energy then there will be no change in climate,oil spills will not be there,there will be absence of polluted air,coal miners tragedies will be absent and no coal miners will die,no loss of wildlife,no shortage of energy and energy will be in abundance, no oil fed wars and terrorists. Everyone will be able to afford energy.

Lovins has stated many plans for US by 2050 like cars run by hydrogen fuel cells, bio-fuels and electricity, trucks and aeroplanes run by biomass fuels,electricity generated by renewable power etc.He also discusses plans to make trucks fuel efficient,and make factory pipes which will conserve energy. The economy will thus be able to save $5 trillion and will grow 158%.This can all be done without federal taxes,subsidies etc.So by 2050 US will need no coal,no oil, no nuclear energy.

Without the use of fossil fuels, this transition will cost five trillion less and money will be saved.This is a practical step that will save money,protect our health,reduce environmental pollution,etc. It makes sense and gives an opportunity to create new change in energy use. Lovins strategy has drawn the attention of world leaders, business leaders. It has also attracted political strategists.