Working Group Meeting – Feb. 27, 2009
The first meeting of the Climate Change Working Group was held on February 27, 2009 in Newark. More than thirty people, representing a wide range of organizations, participated. Each participant had an opportunity to introduce themselves, highlight key issues and provide suggestions for the role of the working group. A summary of issues raised will be posted on this page shortly.
A presentation was made to the working group by Professor Clint Andrews, Rutgers University on alternative fuels. Copies of his slide presentations are listed at right. A few of his key points:
- There is national agreement on the need to use energy more efficiently, for expanding the use of renewal resources for energy and for investing in energy infrastructure. This agreement would advance efforts to address climate change.
- The benefits of biofuels in reducing greenhouse gases depend on the crops used, how they are farmed and how they are refined. Using corn to produce ethanol is among the least beneficial approaches.
- Hydrogen holds the most promise for reducing greenhouse gases and technology is advancing – in particular, the cost-effectiveness of fuel cells. Battery technology for hybrid cars and plug-in electric vehicles is also advancing.
- The nation must take a flexible approach to alternative energy and fuels, encouraging the development of alternative technologies and approaches.
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For More Information
Resources and documents relating to climate change are at right. For more information or to participate in the working group, contact Jeffrey Perlman at 973-639-8445 or jperlman@njtpa.org.