While covering the fascinating history of wind power as a whole, this timely handbook focuses on current technological developments and the promise—and pitfalls—of wind energy as part of the world's energy future.The use of wind power for the generation of electricity holds vast potential for solving the world's energy problems, but numerous technical and social issues must be addressed before that potential can be realized. This handbook will both educate students...

This book provides an outstanding single-volume resource on the topic of solar energy for young adults and general audiences.While how much longer the world's supply of fossil fuels will last is debatable, it is a fact that the fossil fuels that we depend on so heavily today are non-renewable resources that will inevitably be exhausted—making the need to shift to alternative sources of energy such as solar extremely important. Solar Energy: A Reference Handbook...

The increasing numbers of LGBT teenagers who choose to live their lives as "out" youth face unique issues within their schools, families, and communities. This book provides information that will help LGBT youth overcome their challenges and give non-LGBT youth a better understanding of sexual identities different from their own.While all youth are likely to face traumatic or stressful situations in their transition to adulthood, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgen...

This handbook offers an in-depth discussion of the world's oceans. It discusses the marine life that is dependent on the sea as well as the problems threatening the health of the ocean and its wildlife.This book opens with an overview of the history of human knowledge and understanding of the oceans and cryosphere, along with related scientific, technological, social, political, and other factors. It presents and discusses about a dozen major problems facing the Ea...

A 2022 Choice Outstanding Academic Title"This concise, informative, and revealing overview of hate groups is an excellent starting point for researchers and readers." – Library JournalHate Groups: A Reference Handbook offers answers to essential questions about hate groups in a way that is accessible to students and general readers interested in this important topic.This book covers the topic of ha...

A shrewd and compelling examination of how political figures throughout history have used scientific findings to achieve their objectives—just as scientists have often put political forces to work to achieve their own goals.The U.S. government has historically been the engine of American scientific achievement, from the birth of nuclear technology to the "space race." However, at times, our government has also misrepresented scientific evidence to advance a politic...

"An excellent starting place for research on plastic and its environmental impact." – CHOICEPlastic plays a vital role in today's world but has become increasingly problematic.This book discusses the history and evolution of plastic, its many uses, and the implications that it has on our health and environment.Beginning with a history of plastic, from the first scientific discovery of the material to its diversity of forms and uses in the present d...

An indispensable resource for readers interested in eating disorders, this book summarizes their history in human civilization, assesses the current status of eating disorders in American society, and describes efforts for establishing effective prevention and treatment programs.Although eating disorders have existed for centuries, considerable controversy remains as to the basic cause or causes of these disorders and their genetic, biological, and/or psychological...

The Climate Change Debate: A Reference Handbook provides an in-depth look at climate change facts and statistics. It also discusses debate surrounding the scientific consensus.The Climate Change Debate: A Reference Handbook covers the topic of climate change from the earliest days of planet Earth to the present day.Chapters One and Two provide a historical background of climate change and a review of current problems, controversies, and so...

Prescription drugs are a basic and invaluable part of society today, but there is debate surrounding the methods of testing new drugs, the possible misuse of prescription drugs, and the economics of drug production and use.This book examines the evolution of prescription drugs in the United States, as well as the formation of the pharmaceutical industry. It begins with a history of prescription drugs, dating back to their origins, then moves through the Industrial ...

This book provides a detailed introduction to natural disasters and the ways in which they have had and continue to have, profound effects on human society.Natural Disasters: A Reference Handbook surveys the impact of these events on human civilization. The opening chapter provides a general history and background of the major types of natural disasters, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, severe storms, and forest fires. The information presented i...

Waste management poses a daunting global challenge. This resource provides an in-depth look at the waste management industry in the USA and elsewhere.The book begins with an introduction to waste disposal and management through history, from early civilizations and the Middle Ages through to the present. Readers will better understand current problems, controversies, and solutions relating to waste management, including the exportation of hazardous wastes, electron...