As the global economy grows and thrives, the worldwide demand for energy resources increases. Studies of energy consumption trends project that world energy consumption will increase by 59 percent before the year 2020. As greater numbers of people around the world search for more efficient ways to fuel modes of transportation, heat and light their homes and businesses, and power the production of goods of all kinds, they are faced with skyrocketing energy costs and dwindling supplies of fossil fuels, as well as increasing environmental degradation.

Energy Supply and Renewable Resources examines the history behind industrialized nations’ dependence on natural resources, particularly fossil fuels, as well as developing nations’ increasing consumption of these resources. This eye-opening volume draws parallels between the energy-related challenges faced by the United States and those of several key nations: China, Germany, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, and Venezuela. Through primary source documents, statistical data, graphs, and charts, this volume surveys current energy consumption and production trends, and presents evidence of the need to harness alternative, renewable sources of energy. It also studies the environmental, economic, and political effects of existing energy infrastructures; reviews current energy policies; studies threats to energy supply; highlights those nations playing key roles in current and future energy production; and presents research on the use of emerging energy alternatives. In a time of particular insecurity and uncertainty about sources of energy around the world, this volume is an invaluable educational tool for young adults who are in a position to truly make a difference in the future of the Earth’s natural resources.