Electroactive Bioplastics Flex Their Industrial Muscle

Scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Peoria, Illinois, have discovered that conductive polymers, which can be induced to movement with electric charges, can be made from plant polysaccharides. Replacing petroleum-based materials currently used in conductive polymers will promote cleaner, energy-independent production of the biomedical devices, light-emitting diodes, and specialized sensors which could use conductive polymers.

http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/dec05/plastic1205.htm

Biodiesel Business Has Oberlin Crew Cookin'

Two Ohio residents have partnered to add to the biofuels available in their town, including what could be the first made from one hundred percent recycled vegetable oil. Current businesses in the area offer B2, B5, B20, and B100 biodiesels, depending on the season.

http://www.cleveland.com/news/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/lorain/1136280813145160.xml&coll=2&thispage=1

Plans Progress for Local Ethanol Plant

Locals of Fairmont, Minnesota met with representatives of the biofuels industry in December, to discuss the progress of the Buffalo Lake Energy plant, which will produce ethanol. BioFuels Solutions has partnered with Cargill to build and operate the plant. Issues such as water use, traffic, and pollution control were discussed. The companies are awaiting permit approval for the project.

http://fairmontsentinel.com/news/stories/122205a.html

Thinning Forests Can Generate Power, Cut Fire Risk, Study Says

The Oregon Forest Resources Institute states that selective tree harvest can minimize wildfire danger, and contribute to renewable electricity generation. The state's goal is to achieve 10 percent renewable power by 2015.

http://159.54.226.83/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060102/BUSINESS/601020301/1040