ABSTRACT
How sources of energy are produced and utilized can bring environmental health and ecological consequences. Presented in this chapter is an early history of energy production in the U.S. and nascent attendant policies. Described are current and past sources of energy, including fossil fuels and renewable energy technologies. Discussion of renewables includes wind, solar, biomass, fuel cells, and water/geothermal. Development of hydraulic fracturing of shale (“fracking”) and its implications for U.S. energy usage are discussed. Two U.S. federal energy policies are presented: the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009. The mission and work of the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration is described. On a global scale, the energy policies of the EU, China, and India are described. Also discussed are the implications of energy production and use on human and ecological health, with attention given to effects on climate change.
