a world needing long-term solutions

Hello Ruperto, Hmmm, interesting discussion. I purport that before any long-term decisions are made, leading to subsequent long-term solutions that a number of factors need first be considered. The first is the continuing debate over whether fossil fuel is a fixed or renewing resource. There is growing scientific suport for the theory that crude oil is NOT a fossil fuel, but is rather a renewing by-product of chemical reaction within the Earth's core. Before a 'new' system is adopted in lieu of the current system I believe that a real commitment to unbiased, scientific research must first be embraced. Specifically, in addition to the 'black gold' vs. 'fossil fuel' debate is the fact that there is no evidence which has been able to rebuke the postulate that CO2 is anything other than a harmless, vital, gaseous compound necessary for life on Earth. While I defy the current populist trend to brandish a self-destructive whipping stick against the Human species for our continued use of oil by-products, I DO see great value in exploring alternatives to any 'standard' technology -- as that is the basis of progress. We should always challenge and seek viable competing technologies, and then let the market and the current paradigm of Human behavior sort out the results. Of course, I think that in order to move forward in our ability to transport people and cargo, we ought to abandon a friction based modality. Instead, I believe that we ought to be diving head-long into teleportation. I simply do not see the value in seeking out a replacement system weighed down by the constraints of such an inefficient reality as that of friction.

Well, it's going to take a very long time before that happens. I am encouraged to see more city busses using biodiesel and if I could afford to get a "practice car" I would get one of those kits that lets you fit your car to switch between diesel and gasoline. I like the idea of recycling cooking oil instead of it ending up in landfills and water supplies.