it's nice to have an administration that fills important roles in government not just with cronies but with those who have a passion for the field and a desire to make the world a better place. I am utterly confident in Sec. Chu, ever since his troubleshooting the BP oil spill, and this announcement is an exciting step in the right direction for energy independence.
Energy Secretary Steven Chu has just announced that a research team headed up by the Department’s BioEnergy Science Center has developed a cost effective method for converting woody plants straight into isobutanol, which can be used in conventional car engines just as gasoline.
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There is much skepticism, rightly so, regarding biofuels and their impact on our farmlands. This development seems to be rather promising however, not only because of its purportedly less expensive production that can harness plant waste, but also because of the potential for the 'green jobs' that Obama always couples with green energy research.
I hope Sec. Chu gets the recognition he deserves when all is said and done, for championing science and innovation especially in light of our political climate. His work is important and well-received, and we hope to hear more from the Dept. of Energy on breakthroughs that will help us get off oil...