Environmental Engineering: Volume 7, Scientist and Science Series

ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING is the study of engineering methods to correct environmental problems affecting the earth system. A visionary and broad-ranging study of our planet would have four crucial aspects: (1) environmental observations, including those based on space technologies and international collaborations; (2) development and application of new instruments; (3) utilization of new computer technologies; and (4) support of advanced training in science and technology. Chapter 1 gives two divergent points of view on the current status of the Fukushima nuclear accident; namely, the optimistic and the pessimistic. Chapter 2 covers basic principles, Chapter 3 global climate change, Chapter 4 air pollution, Chapter 5 soils and solid waste, Chapter 6 water, Chapter 7 energy-oil and coal, and Chapter 8 nuclear energy. Chapter 7 introduces the acronym EROEI, which stands for "Energy Return On Energy Invested." It is a measure that helps to evaluate the effectiveness of fossil fuels, fuel cells, solar panels, windmills, and nuclear power plants.