A Much Needed Break.. Which Isn't Much..

Hi again,

Fall break's finally here, though it makes very little difference to me since I only get to skip a single class.. Sigh.. Classes have been going good. I am beginning to ferverously follow developments in the renewable energy field. Ah yes.. renewable energy. I've learnt so much about it within the past couple of months, and a lot of my pre-conceptual skepticism on it is being rapidly wiped away by the minute.

From solar photovoltaics, to wind turbines, to fuel cells, to corn-ethanol fuel - I've had somewhat of a crash course on the fundamentals of each and every one of these renewable energy technologies. Extensive studies have been performed all over the world, trying to find that one technology that would 'save the world' from the clutches of global warming and resource depletion. The more I learn though the clearer it becomes to me that there is no ONE solution. Renewable energies have their natural limiations, the extent of which are region specific. Fr example, Canada and the northern US gets a lot of winds annually, and this natural potential makes wind turbine construction feasible in these regions. Countries around the equator (such as Malaysia) on the other hand are exposed to high amounts of sunshine all year-round, but do not necessarily get much wind. Hence, these regions are more suitable for solar photovoltaic systems. With regards to Malaysia, there is also a lot of potential in biofuels.

There is quite a hype for renewable energy in today's world. However, it is essential for us to determine the feasbility of implementing a certain technology before ultimately doing so. One needs to consider not only the economics of the project, but also an emission analysis accounting for every input, process and output.

On a more abstract note, I have to state that I do not believe that human beings are saving the planet (so to speak). I believe the planet Earth is a closed system, and all 'natural phenomenons' including global warming are basically mechanisms to mitigate changes in the 'system.' Thus, I think what we are essentially trying to do is save mankind's existence on the face of the Earth. Now some may argue that they are protecting the other forms of life as well, but I don't buy that either, for I think in essence, it is the undeniable interdependence of all living beings on Earth that drives us to protect them. Well, that just my 2 cents worth.

Alrighty, now that I'm done rambling, here's some news for those who have been craving for something more pleasing to the eyes than words. Haha. Since it's fall break, I'll be spending some time taking photos around campus (it is quite beautiful, but I personally appreciate spring's beauty more). They should be up this weekend, so watch out for those. Till then, cheers!