Dr. Nina Pierpont describes a new trend with Wind Turbines and the trend is not positive. The article can be read here:
http://counterpunch.org/pierpont10292010.html
What she dubs is "Wind Turbine Syndrome" and seems to make people who reside within a 2kM (1.24 mi) radius of the turbine fall ill. The symptoms are:
(1) Sleep disturbance. Not simply awakened, but awakening in a panic (“flight or fight” response).
(2) Headache.
(3) Tinnitus.
(4) Ear pressure.
(5) Dizziness.
(6) Vertigo.
(7) Nausea.
(8) Visual blurring.
(9) Tachycardia.
(10) Irritability.
(11) Problems with concentration and memory.
(12) Panic episodes associated with sensations of internal pulsation or quivering, which arise while awake or asleep. (This latter involving other, non-vestibular organs of balance, motion, and position sense.)
This is not a good sign for the establishment of Wind Turbines. It seems like they can be more apparent to surrounding populations than even high powered electric lines. This only ads a burden to the establishment of wind energy but it is still a technology worth harnessing due to the prospects of possible peak oil.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Brazil taking charge... again
http://www.energycentral.com/news/en/15337059/Brazil-puts-399-wind-farms-79-other-energy-projects-out-for-bids?
The Brazilians really are taking the lead on 21st century energy. First they utilize sugar cane to produce unsubsidized biofuels and now they are expanding other alternatives. Gotta give them a pat on the back for that.
The Brazilians really are taking the lead on 21st century energy. First they utilize sugar cane to produce unsubsidized biofuels and now they are expanding other alternatives. Gotta give them a pat on the back for that.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
What is Demand Response?
http://www.energypulse.net/centers/article/article_display.cfm?a_id=2271
This article does a great job explaining Demand Response with clarity and brevity. Demand response services firms are growing this is a potential new job market for professionals in and out of the energy field. Salesmen, computer engineers, and technicians could all potentially qualify for positions, therefore anyone in search of a job or in a field with high turnover, this short article might be enough to give you the background information on a potential new career.
This article does a great job explaining Demand Response with clarity and brevity. Demand response services firms are growing this is a potential new job market for professionals in and out of the energy field. Salesmen, computer engineers, and technicians could all potentially qualify for positions, therefore anyone in search of a job or in a field with high turnover, this short article might be enough to give you the background information on a potential new career.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Corruption in various places
This is a compelling article about corruption and money involved with going "green."
http://www.thenation.com/doc/20100322/hari/single
http://www.thenation.com/doc/20100322/hari/single
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Geothermal: Underutilized?
http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2007/geothermal.html
MIT released a study on Geothermal technology that contains some startling conclusions. Using current drilling and mining technology, we can access hot spots in the Earth's crust to make steam, which will then power a electric power plant. We currently use fossil fuels to boil water for steam to spin our turbines, but this process requires no imports and has virtually no environmental impact.
The report shows that the Western part of the country has extraordinary heat potential at depths of 3 and 6.5 km and the entire country has boiling capacity at 10 km. Existing technology is capable of tapping this energy source. The report states: "By almost any criteria, the accessible U.S. EGS resource base is enormous –greater than 13 million quads or 130,000 times the current annual consumption of primary energy in the United States."
Geothermal could provide our country with enough energy to meet all our electricity needs and, assuming we could move our to a fleet of cars to all electric, our transportation needs as well.
Fascinating stuff that does not seemed to be talked about or funded.
MIT released a study on Geothermal technology that contains some startling conclusions. Using current drilling and mining technology, we can access hot spots in the Earth's crust to make steam, which will then power a electric power plant. We currently use fossil fuels to boil water for steam to spin our turbines, but this process requires no imports and has virtually no environmental impact.
The report shows that the Western part of the country has extraordinary heat potential at depths of 3 and 6.5 km and the entire country has boiling capacity at 10 km. Existing technology is capable of tapping this energy source. The report states: "By almost any criteria, the accessible U.S. EGS resource base is enormous –greater than 13 million quads or 130,000 times the current annual consumption of primary energy in the United States."
Geothermal could provide our country with enough energy to meet all our electricity needs and, assuming we could move our to a fleet of cars to all electric, our transportation needs as well.
Fascinating stuff that does not seemed to be talked about or funded.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Consumers do not know best, reduction is important
Accenture did a survey of 9,000 individuals in 22 countries pertaining to energy issues. The most striking finding of the survery was that, despite worries about limited energy supplies, climate change, and high prices, only 37% of consumers do feel that usage reduction is the answer to reducing their countries reliance on fossil fuels and "36 percent say that using less energy is the answer to reducing reliance on foreign countries providing oil and gas."
"We cannot address climate change or energy security unless we both create new sources of clean energy and reduce consumer demand," said Sander van 't Noordende, Group Chief Executive of Accenture's Resources operating group. "But our survey shows that consumers do not think lower energy use is a priority. It will take many years before renewable alternatives come fully on stream. Until they do, governments and energy companies will have to find creative ways to transform consumer habits and improve energy efficiency."
Mr. van't Noordende is absolutely correct. Excluding hyrdo, renewables are not as cheap as fossil fuels and the main reason they are playing any kind of role is subsidities and government incentives. Consumers have been spoiled by cheap energy and this gluttony must eventually come to an end. At some point renewables and alternatives to fossil fuels may suppliment our energy needs, but consumers should also renew focus on the one thing they can control REDUCTION. Reduction saves the consumer money, helps reduce strain on the grid, and will indirectly benefit the environment.
Some tips would be to hang dry your clothes during the warm days of the year. It will make them feel fresher and will not wear them down as bad as a dryer. The savings can be significant: http://www.terrapass.com/blog/posts/how-to-finance-2 Some other tips can be found at: http://suncountry.myenergymatters.net/tips-home-0
*All quotes are sourced from: http://www.energycentral.com/news/en/14742520/
"We cannot address climate change or energy security unless we both create new sources of clean energy and reduce consumer demand," said Sander van 't Noordende, Group Chief Executive of Accenture's Resources operating group. "But our survey shows that consumers do not think lower energy use is a priority. It will take many years before renewable alternatives come fully on stream. Until they do, governments and energy companies will have to find creative ways to transform consumer habits and improve energy efficiency."
Mr. van't Noordende is absolutely correct. Excluding hyrdo, renewables are not as cheap as fossil fuels and the main reason they are playing any kind of role is subsidities and government incentives. Consumers have been spoiled by cheap energy and this gluttony must eventually come to an end. At some point renewables and alternatives to fossil fuels may suppliment our energy needs, but consumers should also renew focus on the one thing they can control REDUCTION. Reduction saves the consumer money, helps reduce strain on the grid, and will indirectly benefit the environment.
Some tips would be to hang dry your clothes during the warm days of the year. It will make them feel fresher and will not wear them down as bad as a dryer. The savings can be significant: http://www.terrapass.com/blog/posts/how-to-finance-2 Some other tips can be found at: http://suncountry.myenergymatters.net/tips-home-0
*All quotes are sourced from: http://www.energycentral.com/news/en/14742520/
Monday, March 8, 2010
Hemp: A Weed Will Solve Our Energy and Environmental Woes?
INTRODUCTION
Jack Herer, author of "The Emperor Wears No Clothes" states that "Farming only six percent of the continental U.S. acreage with biomass [from hemp] crops would provide all of America's gas and oil energy needs, ending dependence up on fossil fuels." He also adds, "Each acre of hemp would yield 1,000 gallons of methanol. Fuels from hemp, along with the recycling of paper [from hemp], etc., would be enough to run America virtually without oil."(1)
Jeremy Briggs writes: “Hemp can produce 10 tons of biomass per acre every four months. Enough energy could be produced on 6% of the land in the U.S. to provide enough energy for our entire country (cars, heat homes, electricity, industry) -- and we use 25% of the world's energy. To put which in perspective, right now we pay farmers not to grow on 6% (around 90 million acres) of the farming land, while another 500 million acres of marginal farmland lies fallow. This land could be used to grow hemp as an energy crop.”(2)
These are compelling words that warrent addition investigation.
HISTORY OF HEMP
“Hemp is an erect, slender, rather tender dioecious annual herb growing up to 4m tall.”(3) Hemp has been used as an idustrial crop dating back to the agricultural revolution up until it was illegalized in 1937. Cannabis, family Cannabaceae; species: Cannabis indica, Cannabis ruderalia, and Cannabis sativa L., has been found on every continent, excluding Anartica, and has been used by most ancient cultures. It uses were typically for the hempen fibers for fabrics, oil from the seeds, the seeds for food, a medicine, and for its narcotic properties. Hemp has ancient roots in Sumer, what is considered the first "civilized society" where it was used for clothing fabric and its oil was used in lamps. The Chinese used it heavily for medicinal purposes.(4)
History is littered with examples of leaders promoting hemp cultivation. Among others, Queen Elizabeth I of England and King Philip of Spain both issued mandates requiring its growth. In 1619, the leaders of the Jamestown colony issued a decree that all farmers to grow Indian hemp seed.(5) Later, "the General Court in 1637 at Hartford Connecticut, and the Massachusetts courts in 1639 ordered all families to plant one teaspoon of hemp seed. “that we might in time have supply of linen cloth among ourselves.”(6)
Hemp had a big place in American colonial history. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were both cultivators and hemp. "Both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States were drafted on hempen paper. Colonial women sewed soldiers’ uniforms and flags from the tough hemp fibers, and bagging, cordage, twines, ropes, and sails were all made with hemp." (7) "The rags Betsy Ross used to sew the first flag were made of hemp."(8)
Beyond lamp oil and as a substitute fuel in wood burning fires, it did not have much use as an energy source until the turn of the 20th century. That is until Henry Ford, who designed his first Model T to run on a methanol based petrol derived from hemp seeds!(9)
ILLEGALIZATION AND ASSOCIATION WITH MARIJUANIA
Hemp cultivation ceased in 1937 with the passing of the Marijuana Stamp Act. Although law did not explicitly prohibit cultivation, the law necessitated a permit, or “stamp,” to grow it. But, with the exception of a few years during World War II(10), no stamps were issued, indirectly criminalizing all cultivation. Hemp is currently classified as a drug under the Controlled Substance Act, making cultivation a federal crime.
Hemp and marijuana are related, essentially cousins but the psychotropic substance in marajunia, THC, Tetrahydrocannabinol, is virtually absent in industrial grade hemp. According to David West, Ph.D., “… THC levels in industrial hemp are so low that no one could ever get high from smoking it. Moreover, hemp contains a relatively high percentage of another cannabinoid, CBD, that actually blocks the marijuana high. Hemp, it turns out, is not only not marijuana; it could be called anti-marijuana.”(11) Associating and criminalizing industrial hemp because of its THC content would be the equivalent of illegalizing the poppy seeds on bagels because of their opiate content.
There has been a recent movement to legalize hemp. David Monson of North Dakota, a state representative, is currently fighting an intense legal battle with the DEA in the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota to become the first industrial hemp farmer in the country. North Dakota is one of seven states that have authorized industrial hemp farming. The others are Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Montana and West Virginia.(12) Representative Ron Paul (R-Tx) introduced HR 1009 in 2007, which would have legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp. The bill did not become law because it did make it out of committee, therefore was not even put up for a vote. (13)
Hemp advocates have alleged that the Marijuana Stamp Act was the work of lumber and cotton lobbies, which saw hemp’s ability to make paper and fabric as a threat.
HEMP AS AN ENERGY SOURCE
Hemp can be used as a biomass fuel, its oils can be used to produced biodiesel fuel for cars, as feedstock for conversion of cellulose to alcohol using the same methods we currently use with corn, and to produce methane gas using an anaerobic digester.
Hemp’s energy potential lies in it’s highly dense cellulose content. Hemp does converts carbon-dioxide into cellulose through photosynthesis faster and better than its rivals, such as corn and sugarcane.(14) This makes hemp an ideal feedstock of biomass fuels. It is also worth noting that hemp is easier to cultivate. It requires no fertilizers or pesticides and can be cultivated in a wide variety of environments, ranging from temperate to arid. The nickname “weed” for marijuana can be applied to hemp as well, because it accurately describes how easy it grows.
Biodiesel from hemp could be used to supplement oil imports used to fuel our cars. Biodiesel is made by mixing any oil or fat with an alcohol – in most cases methanol (which can be produced with the biomass from the rest of the plant) and some kind of catalyst – in most cases sodium hydroxide. Processing costs are estimated to be $0.66 per gallon, plus the cost of the oil. Total production costs of the oil are, based on calculations from 1999 study done Canada, approximately $5.20 per gallon. (15) These cost projections seem high but, unlike oil and corn-based fuels, they are not subsidized and are being done on a very small scale. Yields vary and this sample might not be vindicative of yields in the United States. In addition, there has been significant amount of research and development, as well as infrastructure growth, done in the last ten years regarding ethanol production(16), so these numbers may not reflect the current market. Further investigation is warrented.
Beyond biodiesel, hemp can provide fuel for automobiles as a feedstock for ethanol. This can be done in a variety of ways, including gasification, acid hydrolysis, or the current method used on corn which is using engineered enzymes to convert cellulose to glucose, which is then fermented to make alcohol. There are even enzymes available that convert the cellulose directly into alcohol.(17) Castleman estimates that the conversation process will cost $1.37 per gallon plus the cost of the feedstock. Again, this is using numbers and projections that are approximately ten years old. Beyond supplementing oil imports, ethanol fuel helps engines burn cleaner.
Gasification, an emerging technology could yield even better results “produce ethanol and/or methanol from the cubed biomass, or to make high-octane lead-free gasoline from the methanol using a catalytic process developed by Georgia Tech University in conjunction with Mobil Oil Corporation.”(18)
Hemp, through the process, can play a large role as a fuel source, beyond a substitute for gas, through the process of Pryolysis. Pryolysis is the application of heat to biomass with little or no air. It chars the organic matter without burning it. This is how we currently make charcoal out of wood. Through this process, hemp charcoal could supplement coal. Hemp coal would have cleaner emissions with no sulfur and less toxic ash. The charcoal is also close to mined coal in terms of BTU content. The process can also produce gasoline, ethanol, non-condensable gasses, acetic acid, aceton, methane, and methanol.(19)
These are methods we are aware of to produce fuel from hemp.
HEMP’S ENVIRONMENTAL APPEAL AND OTHER USES
Using hemp as a feedstock for fuel could solve the problem of excessive carbon dioxide buildup in the atmosphere. Hemp could possibly produces enough oxygen throughout its growing season to counterbalance all the carbon dioxide it will later put into the atmosphere when burned as fuel. It could be the closest fuel source available, beyond hydro, solar, wind, and tide, that is essentially carbon-neutral. I do not have any studies to substantiate that claim, but it would be a great idea for a scientific study.
Our current farming techniques for our main monoculture crops, such as corn, require a significant amount of fertilizers and pesticides. This has created a environment crisis because the fertilizers and pesiticides have made there way into our water stream, particularly the Mississippi River. It has also led to siginifcant erosion of the top soil, threatening our bread basket. This is further detailed in Michael Pollan’s The Omnivore’s Dilemma.
Hemp requires no fertilizers and pesticides. It also has a deep root structure that decays and fertilizes the soil naturally when it is cut. It’s deep roots protect anchor the top soil and hemp has shown that it can remove heavy metals for the soil as well! It can monoculture or serve as an excellent rotation crop.(20)
Beyond fuel, hemp has a variety of other uses that could benefit the consumer and the environment. It can reduce deforestation because it can be manufactured into biodegradable paper. It can be manufactured in various plastics and industrial grade fiberglass, both of which are biodegradable as well. Hemp is currently in imported building material and plastics used in millions of cars today.(21) Also worth noting, biodiesel from hemp is biodegradable as well in the event of a spill. It’s can oils also have nutritional value and can be used to make organic foods. Hemp can also be used to make fabric for clothing, sails, bags, etc. It’s cultivation is better for the environment than cotton and its fibers have shown to be more durable.(22)
CONCLUSION
Hemp production shows great promise as a fuel source as well as a feedstock for other valuable goods. Beyond providing the potential for energy independence it could also serve as a solution for several environmental problems.
However, the stigmatation surrounding it is preventing scientists, farmers, and industrialists from giving us a full view of its potential. Nothing but good could come from the legalization of industrial hemp and I would urge all US citizens to let your representatives know you feel the same way.
Sources*:
1. John Fennucio, “Hemp seen as fuel substitute,” The Massachusetts Daily Collegian September 20, 2005. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2005/September/hemp-seen-as-fuel.html (Accessed March 5, 2010)
2. Jeremy Briggs, “Hemp as a Fuel/Energy Source,” Radio Free Exile, May 21, 2009. Found at: http://exileguy-exileguy.blogspot.com/2009/05/hemp-as-fuel-energy-source.html (Accessed March 9, 2010)
3. “Hemp, ” Interactive European Network for Industrial Crops and their Applications, Found at: http://www.ienica.net/crops/hemp.pdf (Accessed March 9, 2010)
4. "Hemp History," Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/Archives/History/hemp_history.html (Accessed March 8, 2010)
5. "Marijuana Timeline" Found at: http://www.a1b2c3.com/drugs/mj004.htm (Accessed March 8, 2010)
6. "Hemp History," Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/Archives/History/hemp_history.html (Accessed March 8, 2010)
7. “Dennis Kucinich on Industrial Hemp,” Kucinich for President, Inc. February 15, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/February/dennis_kucinich.php (accessed March 8, 2010)
8. Buck Wolf, “High on Hemp: America’s most controversial crop may one day fill supermarkets and fuel automobiles” Australian Broadcasting Corporation April 21, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/April/high_on_hemp.php (Accessed March 8, 2010)
9. Pamela Sossi, “Cannabis for Fuel,” Opinion Editorials April 19, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/April/cannabis_for_fuel.php (Accessed March 8, 2010)
10. Brian Tschiegg, “Government should look toward hemp as a viable alternative fuel,” The Retriever Weekly Vol. 44 Issue 19 . Found at: http://www.retrieverweekly.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=3867 (Accessed March 9, 2010)
11. “Dennis Kucinich on Industrial Hemp,” Kucinich for President, Inc. February 15, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/February/dennis_kucinich.php (accessed March 8, 2010)
12. Susanne Retka Schill, “U.S. industrial hemp development continues,” Biomass Magazine November 20,2008 Found at: http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2230&q=hemp (Accessed March 8, 2010)
13. Govtrack.us “H.R. 1009: Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2007.” Found at: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h110-1009 (Accessed March 9, 2010)
14. Jeremy Briggs, “Hemp as a Fuel/Energy Source,” Radio Free Exile, May 21, 2009. Found at: http://exileguy-exileguy.blogspot.com/2009/05/hemp-as-fuel-energy-source.html (Accessed March 9, 2010)
15. Tim Castleman, “Hemp Biomass for Energy,” Fuel and Fiber Company, 2001. Found at: http://fuelandfiber.com/Hemp4NRG/Hemp4NRGRV3.htm (Accessed March 9, 2010)
16. “Promising Biofuel Made From Commercial Yeasts Upgraded With A New Enzyme,” Science Daily March 9, 2009. Found at: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090224230751.htm (Accessed March 9, 2010)
17. Tim Castleman, “Hemp Biomass for Energy,” Fuel and Fiber Company, 2001. Found at: http://fuelandfiber.com/Hemp4NRG/Hemp4NRGRV3.htm (Accessed March 9, 2010)
18. Jeremy Briggs, “Hemp as a Fuel/Energy Source,” Radio Free Exile, May 21, 2009. Found at: http://exileguy-exileguy.blogspot.com/2009/05/hemp-as-fuel-energy-source.html (Accessed March 9, 2010)
19. Ibid
20. “Hemp, ” Interactive European Network for Industrial Crops and their Applications, Found at: http://www.ienica.net/crops/hemp.pdf (Accessed March 9, 2010)
21. “Dennis Kucinich on Industrial Hemp,” Kucinich for President, Inc. February 15, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/February/dennis_kucinich.php (accessed March 8, 2010)
22. Pamela Sossi, “Cannabis for Fuel,” Opinion Editorials April 19, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/April/cannabis_for_fuel.php (Accessed March 8, 2010)
*Many of my sources lack empirical evidence for their claims. But I cannot blame them. Because it is criminalized, good research is all but impossible.
Jack Herer, author of "The Emperor Wears No Clothes" states that "Farming only six percent of the continental U.S. acreage with biomass [from hemp] crops would provide all of America's gas and oil energy needs, ending dependence up on fossil fuels." He also adds, "Each acre of hemp would yield 1,000 gallons of methanol. Fuels from hemp, along with the recycling of paper [from hemp], etc., would be enough to run America virtually without oil."(1)
Jeremy Briggs writes: “Hemp can produce 10 tons of biomass per acre every four months. Enough energy could be produced on 6% of the land in the U.S. to provide enough energy for our entire country (cars, heat homes, electricity, industry) -- and we use 25% of the world's energy. To put which in perspective, right now we pay farmers not to grow on 6% (around 90 million acres) of the farming land, while another 500 million acres of marginal farmland lies fallow. This land could be used to grow hemp as an energy crop.”(2)
These are compelling words that warrent addition investigation.
HISTORY OF HEMP
“Hemp is an erect, slender, rather tender dioecious annual herb growing up to 4m tall.”(3) Hemp has been used as an idustrial crop dating back to the agricultural revolution up until it was illegalized in 1937. Cannabis, family Cannabaceae; species: Cannabis indica, Cannabis ruderalia, and Cannabis sativa L., has been found on every continent, excluding Anartica, and has been used by most ancient cultures. It uses were typically for the hempen fibers for fabrics, oil from the seeds, the seeds for food, a medicine, and for its narcotic properties. Hemp has ancient roots in Sumer, what is considered the first "civilized society" where it was used for clothing fabric and its oil was used in lamps. The Chinese used it heavily for medicinal purposes.(4)
History is littered with examples of leaders promoting hemp cultivation. Among others, Queen Elizabeth I of England and King Philip of Spain both issued mandates requiring its growth. In 1619, the leaders of the Jamestown colony issued a decree that all farmers to grow Indian hemp seed.(5) Later, "the General Court in 1637 at Hartford Connecticut, and the Massachusetts courts in 1639 ordered all families to plant one teaspoon of hemp seed. “that we might in time have supply of linen cloth among ourselves.”(6)
Hemp had a big place in American colonial history. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were both cultivators and hemp. "Both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States were drafted on hempen paper. Colonial women sewed soldiers’ uniforms and flags from the tough hemp fibers, and bagging, cordage, twines, ropes, and sails were all made with hemp." (7) "The rags Betsy Ross used to sew the first flag were made of hemp."(8)
Beyond lamp oil and as a substitute fuel in wood burning fires, it did not have much use as an energy source until the turn of the 20th century. That is until Henry Ford, who designed his first Model T to run on a methanol based petrol derived from hemp seeds!(9)
ILLEGALIZATION AND ASSOCIATION WITH MARIJUANIA
Hemp cultivation ceased in 1937 with the passing of the Marijuana Stamp Act. Although law did not explicitly prohibit cultivation, the law necessitated a permit, or “stamp,” to grow it. But, with the exception of a few years during World War II(10), no stamps were issued, indirectly criminalizing all cultivation. Hemp is currently classified as a drug under the Controlled Substance Act, making cultivation a federal crime.
Hemp and marijuana are related, essentially cousins but the psychotropic substance in marajunia, THC, Tetrahydrocannabinol, is virtually absent in industrial grade hemp. According to David West, Ph.D., “… THC levels in industrial hemp are so low that no one could ever get high from smoking it. Moreover, hemp contains a relatively high percentage of another cannabinoid, CBD, that actually blocks the marijuana high. Hemp, it turns out, is not only not marijuana; it could be called anti-marijuana.”(11) Associating and criminalizing industrial hemp because of its THC content would be the equivalent of illegalizing the poppy seeds on bagels because of their opiate content.
There has been a recent movement to legalize hemp. David Monson of North Dakota, a state representative, is currently fighting an intense legal battle with the DEA in the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota to become the first industrial hemp farmer in the country. North Dakota is one of seven states that have authorized industrial hemp farming. The others are Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Montana and West Virginia.(12) Representative Ron Paul (R-Tx) introduced HR 1009 in 2007, which would have legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp. The bill did not become law because it did make it out of committee, therefore was not even put up for a vote. (13)
Hemp advocates have alleged that the Marijuana Stamp Act was the work of lumber and cotton lobbies, which saw hemp’s ability to make paper and fabric as a threat.
HEMP AS AN ENERGY SOURCE
Hemp can be used as a biomass fuel, its oils can be used to produced biodiesel fuel for cars, as feedstock for conversion of cellulose to alcohol using the same methods we currently use with corn, and to produce methane gas using an anaerobic digester.
Hemp’s energy potential lies in it’s highly dense cellulose content. Hemp does converts carbon-dioxide into cellulose through photosynthesis faster and better than its rivals, such as corn and sugarcane.(14) This makes hemp an ideal feedstock of biomass fuels. It is also worth noting that hemp is easier to cultivate. It requires no fertilizers or pesticides and can be cultivated in a wide variety of environments, ranging from temperate to arid. The nickname “weed” for marijuana can be applied to hemp as well, because it accurately describes how easy it grows.
Biodiesel from hemp could be used to supplement oil imports used to fuel our cars. Biodiesel is made by mixing any oil or fat with an alcohol – in most cases methanol (which can be produced with the biomass from the rest of the plant) and some kind of catalyst – in most cases sodium hydroxide. Processing costs are estimated to be $0.66 per gallon, plus the cost of the oil. Total production costs of the oil are, based on calculations from 1999 study done Canada, approximately $5.20 per gallon. (15) These cost projections seem high but, unlike oil and corn-based fuels, they are not subsidized and are being done on a very small scale. Yields vary and this sample might not be vindicative of yields in the United States. In addition, there has been significant amount of research and development, as well as infrastructure growth, done in the last ten years regarding ethanol production(16), so these numbers may not reflect the current market. Further investigation is warrented.
Beyond biodiesel, hemp can provide fuel for automobiles as a feedstock for ethanol. This can be done in a variety of ways, including gasification, acid hydrolysis, or the current method used on corn which is using engineered enzymes to convert cellulose to glucose, which is then fermented to make alcohol. There are even enzymes available that convert the cellulose directly into alcohol.(17) Castleman estimates that the conversation process will cost $1.37 per gallon plus the cost of the feedstock. Again, this is using numbers and projections that are approximately ten years old. Beyond supplementing oil imports, ethanol fuel helps engines burn cleaner.
Gasification, an emerging technology could yield even better results “produce ethanol and/or methanol from the cubed biomass, or to make high-octane lead-free gasoline from the methanol using a catalytic process developed by Georgia Tech University in conjunction with Mobil Oil Corporation.”(18)
Hemp, through the process, can play a large role as a fuel source, beyond a substitute for gas, through the process of Pryolysis. Pryolysis is the application of heat to biomass with little or no air. It chars the organic matter without burning it. This is how we currently make charcoal out of wood. Through this process, hemp charcoal could supplement coal. Hemp coal would have cleaner emissions with no sulfur and less toxic ash. The charcoal is also close to mined coal in terms of BTU content. The process can also produce gasoline, ethanol, non-condensable gasses, acetic acid, aceton, methane, and methanol.(19)
These are methods we are aware of to produce fuel from hemp.
HEMP’S ENVIRONMENTAL APPEAL AND OTHER USES
Using hemp as a feedstock for fuel could solve the problem of excessive carbon dioxide buildup in the atmosphere. Hemp could possibly produces enough oxygen throughout its growing season to counterbalance all the carbon dioxide it will later put into the atmosphere when burned as fuel. It could be the closest fuel source available, beyond hydro, solar, wind, and tide, that is essentially carbon-neutral. I do not have any studies to substantiate that claim, but it would be a great idea for a scientific study.
Our current farming techniques for our main monoculture crops, such as corn, require a significant amount of fertilizers and pesticides. This has created a environment crisis because the fertilizers and pesiticides have made there way into our water stream, particularly the Mississippi River. It has also led to siginifcant erosion of the top soil, threatening our bread basket. This is further detailed in Michael Pollan’s The Omnivore’s Dilemma.
Hemp requires no fertilizers and pesticides. It also has a deep root structure that decays and fertilizes the soil naturally when it is cut. It’s deep roots protect anchor the top soil and hemp has shown that it can remove heavy metals for the soil as well! It can monoculture or serve as an excellent rotation crop.(20)
Beyond fuel, hemp has a variety of other uses that could benefit the consumer and the environment. It can reduce deforestation because it can be manufactured into biodegradable paper. It can be manufactured in various plastics and industrial grade fiberglass, both of which are biodegradable as well. Hemp is currently in imported building material and plastics used in millions of cars today.(21) Also worth noting, biodiesel from hemp is biodegradable as well in the event of a spill. It’s can oils also have nutritional value and can be used to make organic foods. Hemp can also be used to make fabric for clothing, sails, bags, etc. It’s cultivation is better for the environment than cotton and its fibers have shown to be more durable.(22)
CONCLUSION
Hemp production shows great promise as a fuel source as well as a feedstock for other valuable goods. Beyond providing the potential for energy independence it could also serve as a solution for several environmental problems.
However, the stigmatation surrounding it is preventing scientists, farmers, and industrialists from giving us a full view of its potential. Nothing but good could come from the legalization of industrial hemp and I would urge all US citizens to let your representatives know you feel the same way.
Sources*:
1. John Fennucio, “Hemp seen as fuel substitute,” The Massachusetts Daily Collegian September 20, 2005. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2005/September/hemp-seen-as-fuel.html (Accessed March 5, 2010)
2. Jeremy Briggs, “Hemp as a Fuel/Energy Source,” Radio Free Exile, May 21, 2009. Found at: http://exileguy-exileguy.blogspot.com/2009/05/hemp-as-fuel-energy-source.html (Accessed March 9, 2010)
3. “Hemp, ” Interactive European Network for Industrial Crops and their Applications, Found at: http://www.ienica.net/crops/hemp.pdf (Accessed March 9, 2010)
4. "Hemp History," Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/Archives/History/hemp_history.html (Accessed March 8, 2010)
5. "Marijuana Timeline" Found at: http://www.a1b2c3.com/drugs/mj004.htm (Accessed March 8, 2010)
6. "Hemp History," Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/Archives/History/hemp_history.html (Accessed March 8, 2010)
7. “Dennis Kucinich on Industrial Hemp,” Kucinich for President, Inc. February 15, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/February/dennis_kucinich.php (accessed March 8, 2010)
8. Buck Wolf, “High on Hemp: America’s most controversial crop may one day fill supermarkets and fuel automobiles” Australian Broadcasting Corporation April 21, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/April/high_on_hemp.php (Accessed March 8, 2010)
9. Pamela Sossi, “Cannabis for Fuel,” Opinion Editorials April 19, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/April/cannabis_for_fuel.php (Accessed March 8, 2010)
10. Brian Tschiegg, “Government should look toward hemp as a viable alternative fuel,” The Retriever Weekly Vol. 44 Issue 19 . Found at: http://www.retrieverweekly.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=3867 (Accessed March 9, 2010)
11. “Dennis Kucinich on Industrial Hemp,” Kucinich for President, Inc. February 15, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/February/dennis_kucinich.php (accessed March 8, 2010)
12. Susanne Retka Schill, “U.S. industrial hemp development continues,” Biomass Magazine November 20,2008 Found at: http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2230&q=hemp (Accessed March 8, 2010)
13. Govtrack.us “H.R. 1009: Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2007.” Found at: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h110-1009 (Accessed March 9, 2010)
14. Jeremy Briggs, “Hemp as a Fuel/Energy Source,” Radio Free Exile, May 21, 2009. Found at: http://exileguy-exileguy.blogspot.com/2009/05/hemp-as-fuel-energy-source.html (Accessed March 9, 2010)
15. Tim Castleman, “Hemp Biomass for Energy,” Fuel and Fiber Company, 2001. Found at: http://fuelandfiber.com/Hemp4NRG/Hemp4NRGRV3.htm (Accessed March 9, 2010)
16. “Promising Biofuel Made From Commercial Yeasts Upgraded With A New Enzyme,” Science Daily March 9, 2009. Found at: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090224230751.htm (Accessed March 9, 2010)
17. Tim Castleman, “Hemp Biomass for Energy,” Fuel and Fiber Company, 2001. Found at: http://fuelandfiber.com/Hemp4NRG/Hemp4NRGRV3.htm (Accessed March 9, 2010)
18. Jeremy Briggs, “Hemp as a Fuel/Energy Source,” Radio Free Exile, May 21, 2009. Found at: http://exileguy-exileguy.blogspot.com/2009/05/hemp-as-fuel-energy-source.html (Accessed March 9, 2010)
19. Ibid
20. “Hemp, ” Interactive European Network for Industrial Crops and their Applications, Found at: http://www.ienica.net/crops/hemp.pdf (Accessed March 9, 2010)
21. “Dennis Kucinich on Industrial Hemp,” Kucinich for President, Inc. February 15, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/February/dennis_kucinich.php (accessed March 8, 2010)
22. Pamela Sossi, “Cannabis for Fuel,” Opinion Editorials April 19, 2004. Found at: http://www.globalhemp.com/News/2004/April/cannabis_for_fuel.php (Accessed March 8, 2010)
*Many of my sources lack empirical evidence for their claims. But I cannot blame them. Because it is criminalized, good research is all but impossible.
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