In-Depth

It is now a widely accepted scientific fact that our climate is changing in alarming and unnatural ways and humans bear a large part of the responsibility for those changes, which are expected to hit the world's poor the hardest. Debate over reducing greenhouse gas emissions has, however, been contentious.

It is becoming clearer that the use of fossil fuels is impacting our changing climate, but political and financial support for these fuels makes it more difficult to wean ourselves off of them. If you think the price of gas is too high, think again.

Despite lack of leadership at a national level, U.S. state and local governments, businesses, NGOs, and individual citizens are taking the initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and move towards alternative “clean energy” options.

The United States has vast potential to develop renewable energy sources, and as the world’s top greenhouse gas emitter, the future health of the planet may depend on it. So what’s taking so long?

Two thirds of U.S. oil consumption goes toward transportation, making alternative fuels a vital element of the renewable energy debate.

The need for more alternative fuels and greater fuel efficiency is almost universally accepted, but many argue the U.S. government is not doing enough to support these measures.

Some alternative fuel advocates in the United States see local campaigns as the best way to encourage a renewable energy future.