Beyond Fossil Fuels: The Rise of Sustainable Alternatives

Excessive dependence on fossil fuels jeopardizes human survival on the planet. Dependence on petroleum and coal must give way to alternative sources of biofuels, hydrogen, and electrofuels.

Episode 21

1/9/2025

To even come close to meeting greenhouse gas emission reduction goals, fossil fuels need to make way for sustainable sources of energy that provide liquid fuel and electricity. Not only are these alternative fuels more likely to make climate change mitigation goals realistic, but sustainable fuels actually save energy, as they are far less energy-intensive to produce. Jorden and Kimberly discuss the viability of biofuels, hydrogen, and electrofuels and where change is most needed and likely to happen.

Key Topics Jorden and Kimberly discuss include:

  • The benefits and disadvantages of the main contenders

  • Where electrification fits into the grand scheme of alternative fuels

  • Why countries turned to biofuels in the 1970s

  • Why Kimberly hates the US Farm Bill

  • How to differentiate the hydrogen colors of the rainbow

  • How the aviation industry is the biggest user and eco-challenge

  • Where and why hydrogen buses proliferate

  • How fungi can save the planet—or at least offer a sustainable fuel source

Recommended Resources

Ethanol processing plant on an Indiana farm