Weizmann Institute looks to alternative energy future
From: Stuart Schoenfeld
Jerusalem Post
Weizmann Institute looks to alternative energy future
Judy Siegel-Itzkovich, THE JERUSALEM POST Sep. 26, 2006
An ambitious multidisciplinary research initiative into alternative, sustainable
energy resources is being launched by the Weizmann Institute of Science, with
the goal of significantly advancing the search for solutions to the world's
most pressing energy problems. The Rehovot institute plans to raise significant
funds for its Initiative for Research in Sustainable and Alternative Energy,
which will support innovative scientific projects in the field.
"Developing alternative means of producing energy is a necessary step for
dealing with the continuing energy crisis," says institute president Prof. Ilan
Chet. "Creating fresh, sustainable methods of producing energy in the required
amounts will only be possible if we can gain the knowledge to invent completely
new technologies. The Weizmann Institute has an obligation to take a lead in the
global effort in this field. We believe we can help shape the planet's future."
Among the major global energy challenges confronting researchers and
policymakers is the sharp rise in demand for energy in recent years, fueled by
rapidly rising standards of living and expanding populations, especially in
China and India. Experts predict that if nothing is done to change current
patterns, energy demand will rise nearly 60 percent by the year 2030.
In addition, non-renewable energy sources such as fossil fuel are running out,
petroleum-based fuel supplies could be held hostage to political upheavals,
affecting the peace and security of Israel and the entire world, and the
continuing upward spiral of oil prices threatens the stability of the global
economy. Burning fossil fuels is a major cause of air pollution and increases
the accumulation of greenhouse gasses in the upper atmosphere, which may
already be causing global warming.
As Weizmann Institute scientists are concerned about this state of affairs, said
Chet on Tuesday, several of them have committed themselves to help search for
solutions.
Chemistry faculty dean Prof. Mordechai Sheves added: "The special nature of the
Weizmann Institute, with its emphasis on multidisciplinary scientific
cooperation, makes it one of the most promising places to pursue such
solutions."
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