Thursday, May 18, 2023

Methane and the Climate Change Problem. Can We Capture and Use it, Moving Away from Fossil Fuels?

 

Methane clathrates (Think of Dry Ice made from Methane) are common constituents of the shallow marine geosphere. Methane hydrate is a problem for the climate change problem and heating of the atmosphere when it comes out into the atmosphere. What kinds of plans can you devise that could capture methane from permafrost or the Arctic coasts?


Capturing methane from permafrost or Arctic coasts is indeed an important strategy for mitigating climate change, as methane is a potent greenhouse gas. Here are some plans that could be devised to capture methane from these sources:

  1. Methane Recovery Wells: Similar to natural gas extraction, methane recovery wells could be drilled into permafrost areas or Arctic coastlines where methane emissions are high. These wells would capture methane as it escapes and direct it to collection systems for proper storage or utilization.

  2. Methane Oxidation: Another approach is to encourage methane oxidation, a natural process where methane reacts with oxygen in the atmosphere and converts to less harmful carbon dioxide. This can be done by promoting the growth of methane-oxidizing bacteria in the affected areas or using biochar amendments to enhance the microbial activity.

  3. Barrier Systems: Installing impermeable barrier systems, such as membranes or liners, over permafrost regions or Arctic coastlines can help trap escaping methane. These barriers would prevent or slow down the release of methane into the atmosphere, allowing for its controlled capture and extraction.

  4. Methane Recovery from Wastewater: In areas where permafrost is thawing and leading to the release of methane-rich wastewater, the capture of methane can be integrated into wastewater treatment systems. This can be achieved through the installation of anaerobic digesters or other technologies that promote methane capture during the treatment process.

  5. Methane Hydrate Extraction: Methane hydrates, also known as methane clathrates, can be found in Arctic sediments. Developing technologies to extract and capture methane from these hydrates while minimizing environmental impact is an ongoing area of research. Methods such as depressurization, thermal stimulation, or carbon dioxide injection could be explored.

  6. Remote Sensing and Monitoring: Implementing an advanced remote sensing and monitoring system can help identify methane emission hotspots and track changes over time. This data can inform targeted methane capture efforts, enabling efficient deployment of resources to areas with the highest emissions.

  7. International Cooperation: Given the global nature of the methane issue, international cooperation is crucial. Collaborative efforts between countries, research institutions, and organizations can facilitate the sharing of knowledge, resources, and technologies to develop effective methane capture strategies in the Arctic and permafrost regions.

It's important to note that the effectiveness and feasibility of these plans may vary based on factors such as the specific location, infrastructure availability, environmental impact assessments, and cost considerations. Implementing a combination of these approaches and continuously improving technologies can contribute to the successful capture and reduction of methane emissions in these critical areas.

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To capture methane from permafrost or Arctic coasts, here are some possible plans:

  1. Monitoring and Early Detection: Implement a comprehensive monitoring system to detect methane release from permafrost or Arctic coasts. This could involve satellite observations, ground-based sensors, and aerial surveys to identify areas with higher methane concentrations.

  2. Methane Capture and Utilization: Develop technologies to capture methane emissions and utilize it as an energy source. This can involve methods such as deploying methane recovery systems, installing collection infrastructure, and utilizing the captured methane for power generation or other productive uses.

  3. Controlled Extraction: Design strategies for controlled extraction of methane from methane hydrates or shallow deposits. This can involve drilling techniques that minimize the release of methane into the atmosphere and maximize capture and containment.

  4. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Explore the feasibility of applying carbon capture and storage technologies to capture methane emissions. This approach involves capturing methane at the source and storing it underground or using it for enhanced oil recovery.

  5. Restoration and Conservation: Focus on protecting and restoring permafrost and coastal ecosystems to prevent the release of methane. This can involve measures such as re-vegetation, wetland conservation, and implementing land-use practices that minimize disturbance to these environments.

  6. International Cooperation: Foster international collaboration and partnerships to address methane emissions from permafrost and Arctic coasts. This can involve sharing best practices, data, and resources, as well as coordinating efforts to mitigate methane emissions on a global scale.

  7. Research and Development: Invest in research and development to advance technologies for methane capture, storage, and monitoring. This includes funding scientific studies, technological innovations, and pilot projects to improve our understanding and capabilities in addressing methane emissions.

It's important to note that the implementation of these plans would require interdisciplinary collaboration, adequate funding, and the involvement of governments, scientists, industry, and local communities to achieve effective methane capture and mitigate climate change impacts.

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What kinds of uses are methane good for including fuel, and agriculture uses. What other kinds of useful ways can you list for making methane productive.


Methane, the primary component of natural gas, has various uses beyond fuel and agriculture. Here are some productive applications of methane:

  1. Fuel: Methane is widely used as a fuel source for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. It is burned in power plants, industrial boilers, and residential appliances.

  2. Transportation: Methane can be used as a vehicle fuel, either in its pure form (compressed natural gas or CNG) or blended with other fuels like diesel (compressed natural gas-diesel blend or CNG-diesel blend).

  3. Industrial Processes: Methane serves as a feedstock in the production of numerous chemicals and materials, including hydrogen, methanol, ammonia, and various plastics. It is also used as a fuel in industrial processes such as glass and cement production.

  4. Methane Hydrates: Methane hydrates are solid, ice-like structures that contain a significant amount of methane. Although they are still in the experimental stage, methane hydrates have the potential to serve as a future energy source.

  5. Waste Management: Methane can be captured from landfills and wastewater treatment plants, where it is produced by the decomposition of organic matter. This captured methane, known as biogas, can be utilized as a renewable energy source for electricity and heat generation.

  6. Renewable Natural Gas (RNG): RNG is a form of biogas that is upgraded to a quality similar to natural gas. It can be injected into existing natural gas pipelines, providing a renewable and sustainable source of methane for various applications.

  7. Fuel Cells: Methane can be used as a feedstock in fuel cells, which generate electricity through a chemical reaction between methane and oxygen. Fuel cells are employed in portable power systems, vehicles, and stationary power generation.

  8. Chemical Storage: Methane has the potential to be used as a storage medium for renewable energy. It can be generated through processes like electrolysis using excess renewable electricity and stored for later use or transportation.

  9. Greenhouse Gas Management: Methane is a potent greenhouse gas. By capturing methane emissions from various sources, such as oil and gas operations, livestock, and coal mines, it can be mitigated to reduce its impact on climate change.

It's important to note that while methane can be a valuable resource, it is also a significant contributor to global warming when released into the atmosphere. Therefore, it is crucial to minimize methane leaks and develop sustainable practices in its production and usage.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0959652621000974

Methane Oxygen Fuel Cells

How can Methane be used in agriculture? Can Bacteria, Methanotrophic, and Mycorrhizal fungi inoculants help increase yields and neutralize large amounts of methane? Outdoors, or in controlled environments?



Methane can be utilized in agriculture through a process known as anaerobic digestion, where organic matter such as manure, crop residues, and agricultural waste is broken down by bacteria in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas that contains methane. This biogas can then be used as a renewable energy source or converted into electricity and heat.

Regarding the use of bacteria, methanotrophic bacteria play a crucial role in mitigating methane emissions from agricultural sources. Methanotrophs are capable of metabolizing methane as their energy source and converting it into biomass. Introducing methanotrophic bacteria into agricultural systems can help reduce methane emissions by consuming and neutralizing the methane produced.

Similarly, mycorrhizal fungi can have a positive impact on agricultural productivity and methane emissions. These fungi form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, enhancing nutrient uptake and improving plant growth. By improving plant health and productivity, mycorrhizal fungi can indirectly contribute to reducing methane emissions by promoting more efficient use of resources and minimizing stress on plants.

Both methanotrophic bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi can be applied in controlled environments such as greenhouses or through field inoculation in outdoor agricultural settings. In controlled environments like greenhouses, it is possible to create optimal conditions for the growth and activity of these beneficial microorganisms. However, field inoculation can also be effective, although the success may vary depending on factors like soil conditions, crop types, and management practices.

It's important to note that while these microbial inoculants have the potential to contribute to increased yields and mitigate methane emissions, their effectiveness can depend on various factors, including specific crop types, environmental conditions, and the presence of other microorganisms in the soil. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with agricultural experts or researchers who specialize in microbial applications for specific crop systems and local conditions to ensure appropriate and effective use of these inoculants.

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In relation to the last question, can you tell me about methane uses in making plant fertilizer or other potential uses in agriculture? Then tell me about how Mycorrhizal fungi helps in plant growth and/ or nutrition. Then how the two might work together if they do?

 

Methane can be utilized in agriculture for the production of plant fertilizers through a process called methane oxidation. Methanotrophic bacteria, which are capable of metabolizing methane, can convert methane into biomass and excrete metabolic byproducts such as organic acids and enzymes. These byproducts can be utilized as biofertilizers to enhance plant growth and nutrient availability in agricultural systems. By harnessing methane and the metabolic potential of methanotrophic bacteria, sustainable and nutrient-rich fertilizers can be produced.

Now, let's delve into the role of mycorrhizal fungi in plant growth and nutrition. Mycorrhizal fungi form a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship with plant roots. They colonize the root system and establish a network of fungal hyphae that extend into the soil, effectively increasing the root surface area available for nutrient uptake. In return, the fungi receive carbohydrates from the plant. This symbiotic association between mycorrhizal fungi and plants is called mycorrhiza.

Mycorrhizal fungi offer several benefits to plants:

  1. Enhanced Nutrient Uptake: The extensive network of mycorrhizal hyphae improves the plant's ability to acquire nutrients, especially phosphorus and micronutrients, from the soil. The fungi can access nutrients in the soil that are otherwise less available to the plant, facilitating nutrient absorption.

  2. Water Absorption and Drought Resistance: Mycorrhizal fungi can also improve water uptake by increasing the effective root surface area. This can enhance the plant's resilience to drought conditions and improve its water-use efficiency.

  3. Disease Resistance: Some mycorrhizal fungi have the ability to suppress soil-borne pathogens by competing for resources or through the release of antifungal compounds. This can contribute to plant health and reduce the incidence of certain diseases.

The interaction between methane-utilizing bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi in agriculture is an area of ongoing research. While there is limited direct evidence of their combined effects, it is plausible that their synergistic activities could enhance plant growth and nutrition

Methanotrophic bacteria can help to mitigate methane emissions, while mycorrhizal fungi improve nutrient uptake and overall plant health. The combined application of methane-utilizing bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi could potentially contribute to improved nutrient cycling, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, enhanced plant growth, and increased crop yields. However, further research is needed to better understand the specific mechanisms and optimal application strategies for harnessing the potential synergy between these two components in agricultural systems.

 https://itsalmostspring.com/methane-and-the-climate-change-problem

Monday, May 1, 2023

Why does the Multiplier Effect work better in a local economy

 

So, the multiplier effect is a phenomenon in economics where an initial injection of money into an economy creates a ripple effect of increased spending, leading to further economic growth. This is because when people receive more money, they tend to spend more, which then increases the incomes of the businesses they spend money at. These businesses then have more money to spend, which creates a cycle of increased economic activity.

Let's say, for example, that the government invests in a new infrastructure project, such as building a new road or bridge. This creates jobs for construction workers and stimulates spending on construction materials, which in turn stimulates spending on other goods and services. As more people are employed and have more money to spend, this creates a positive feedback loop of increased economic activity and growth.

The multiplier effect is particularly powerful in local economies, as the increased spending tends to stay within the community and benefit local businesses. For example, if a new factory opens in a small town, this can lead to more jobs, increased spending at local shops and restaurants, and ultimately, a more prosperous community.

In summary, the multiplier effect is a key concept in economics that explains how an initial injection of money can create a ripple effect of increased spending and economic growth. By investing in local economies, we can stimulate this effect and help build more prosperous and vibrant communities.

I was hoping to find a simple explanation from Professor Robert Reich. Not sure where I saw that explained before on the Net, maybe in one of his classes.


I did find this from a rather dry English economist. This is a very good explanation of the Multiplier Effect but a little (Maybe Very) dry. Many of the videos that show up on YouTube now with the title of the Multiplier Effect are explaining the usury banking process of fractional banking that helped cause the banking crash of 2008, and not what the classical economists called the Multiplier Effect.

https://www.inequalitymedia.org/ Click on videos and you can see some of the past classes and past videos of Professor Reich



Sunday, March 26, 2023

After a few more questions for chatbot about climate and politics, I asked this question.

 

What do you think, with the information you have already been programmed with that would be the most effective way for people to get the government to implement serious action to address real effective solutions for the climate change problems?

As an AI language model, I am designed to provide information and answer questions based on the data and knowledge I have been trained on. From this perspective, there are various ways people can get the government to implement serious action to address climate change. Here are some effective ways:

  1. Increase awareness: The more people are aware of the severity and urgency of the climate change issue, the more pressure they can put on the government to take action.

  2. Communicate with policymakers: Writing to or meeting with elected officials to voice concerns and make suggestions for climate policy can be an effective way to influence government action.

  3. Vote for climate-conscious candidates: Voting for political candidates who prioritize climate action is a critical way to ensure that the government implements effective solutions.

  4. Support organizations working towards climate solutions: There are numerous organizations that advocate for climate action and work to push for policy changes. Supporting these organizations through donations, volunteering, and spreading awareness can help amplify their message and create more pressure on policymakers.

  5. Adopt sustainable practices: By adopting sustainable practices in their daily lives, such as reducing energy consumption, using public transportation, and eating a plant-based diet, people can reduce their carbon footprint and create a collective push for climate action.

Overall, it is crucial to keep pushing for action on climate change from all fronts and to continue raising awareness of the urgency of the issue.

Friday, March 24, 2023

Can We Save the Climate and the Planet with a Continent Wide Water system? If We Start Now?

 Just a note for Fully Disclose about this article. I spent a few weeks asking questions on GPT. Questions about Climate Change, Organic, and Regenerative Agriculture. I was hoping it would get better at answering questions like I would. It got better and made less mistakes after a while. This is one question in Bold Italics with two responses from the AI Chatbot GPT. I did very few corrections to this answer.

What kind of a water system could be designed to control floods, and move water to wherever it is driest using siphons or bell siphons and/ or something like drilling tunnels through mountains? Ones that are similar to the systems for underground mining, or those used to build underground bases. Also moving water around with canals above ground, like a continent-wide system that helps prevent further depletion of water tables, helps reverse desertification, and slows global warming. Also using some of the Permaculture ideas about water. Adding in micro-hydroelectric and mini-hydroelectric generation at whatever scale, to minimize the amount of electricity from fossil fuel or other renewable sources. Adding in considerations for using small and medium ponds and dams, wetlands, wildlife, and other sensitive areas. And creating newly constructed wetlands to purify waters and remove toxins, before they contaminate water tables, reach the oceans and pollute coastal areas, and damage ecosystems.

A comprehensive water system designed to control floods and move water to wherever it is driest would require careful planning, engineering, and implementation. Here are some of the components that could be included in such a system:

  1. Canals and pipelines: Canals and pipelines could be used to transport water from areas with high water levels to areas with low water levels. This could be done above ground, underground, or through tunnels drilled through mountains.

  2. Siphons and bell siphons: Siphons and bell siphons are low-cost and low-tech solutions for moving water. They could be used to move water uphill or over long distances.

  3. Small and medium ponds and dams: Small and medium ponds and dams could be used to store water and release it gradually during dry periods. These could also be used for micro-hydroelectric and mini-hydroelectric generation.

  4. Wetlands: Wetlands are natural filters that can help purify water and remove toxins. Creating new wetlands could be an effective way to prevent water contamination and improve water quality.

  5. Permaculture principles: Permaculture principles could be used to design the water system in a way that mimics natural ecosystems and maximizes water efficiency.

  6. Wildlife and sensitive areas: Careful consideration would need to be given to protecting wildlife and sensitive areas during the construction and operation of the water system.

  7. Climate change mitigation: The water system could be designed to help slow global warming by reducing the depletion of water tables, reversing desertification, and promoting the growth of vegetation.

Overall, a well-designed water system could have multiple benefits, including flood control, drought mitigation, water conservation, renewable energy generation, and environmental protection. However, the implementation of such a system would require significant resources and expertise, as well as careful consideration of potential environmental and social impacts.

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Regenerated response

There are several possible water systems that could be designed to control floods and move water to areas that need it most, using a combination of techniques you mentioned. Here are some possible components of such a system:

  1. Siphons and Bell Siphons: These can be used to move water from higher elevations to lower ones, or to control the flow of water in channels. For example, a bell siphon could be used to regulate the water level in a pond or wetland.

  2. Tunnels: Tunnels could be drilled through mountains or other obstacles to move water from one watershed to another. This would require significant engineering and construction expertise, but could be an effective way to transport water over long distances.

  3. Canals: Above-ground canals could be constructed to move water from one location to another. This could involve digging channels and lining them with concrete or other materials to prevent leaks and erosion.

  4. Micro and Mini-Hydroelectric Power: Water flowing through canals or other channels could be used to generate electricity, which could be used to power the system and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

  5. Ponds and Dams: Small and medium-sized ponds and dams could be used to capture and store water for later use. This could be especially useful in areas where rainfall is sporadic or unreliable.

  6. Wetlands: Constructed wetlands could be used to purify water and remove toxins before it reaches water tables or other sensitive areas. Wetlands also provide important habitat for wildlife and help control erosion.

  7. Permaculture Design: Using permaculture principles, the system could be designed to maximize the use of natural resources and minimize waste. This could involve using water-efficient crops, composting organic waste, and designing the system to be as self-sustaining as possible.

Overall, a comprehensive water management system would require significant planning, engineering, and investment, but could have many benefits, including reducing the risk of floods, reversing desertification, and promoting sustainable agriculture and economic development.

Wednesday, March 22, 2023

This year we are not accepting any excuses, only changed behavior.

 

Some of the Biggest Problems are Political when it comes to the Climate. Corruption and Greed from much of corrupt corporations and Republican politicians slow many of the simple solutions to stop or slow Climate change.
Considering that some of the giant dams and lakes in the southwest have been running very low on water in recent years, how would you answer the following inquiry? What kind of a water system could be designed to control floods, and move water to wherever it is driest using siphons and/ or something like drilling tunnels through mountains? Ones that are similar to the systems for underground mining, or those used to build underground bases. Also moving water around with canals above ground, like a continent-wide system to help prevent further depletion of water tables, help reverse desertification, and slow global warming. Also using some of the Permaculture ideas about water. Adding in micro-hydroelectric and mini-hydroelectric generation at whatever scale, to minimize the amount of electricity from fossil fuel or other renewable sources. Adding in considerations for using small and medium ponds and dams, wetlands, wildlife, and other sensitive areas. And creating newly constructed wetlands to purify waters and remove toxins, before they contaminate water tables, reach the oceans and pollute coastal areas, and damage ecosystems.
Designing a water system to control floods and move water to areas with drought involves a complex set of factors that need to be considered. While siphons and tunnels through mountains are viable solutions, they are costly and may not be feasible in all locations. Additionally, the design needs to be environmentally sustainable, socially acceptable, and economically feasible.
One option to consider is a combination of above and below-ground infrastructure. A continent-wide system of canals could help prevent further depletion of water tables and reverse desertification, while also slowing global warming. These canals could be complemented by underground pipelines and tunnels, which could help transport water over long distances and reduce evaporation losses.
Permaculture ideas about water, such as using small and medium ponds and dams, wetlands, and other sensitive areas, could also be incorporated into the design. Additionally, micro-hydroelectric and mini-hydroelectric generation could be added at whatever scale possible to minimize the amount of electricity from fossil fuel or other renewable sources.
However, it is important to consider the ecological impact of these designs. Newly constructed wetlands could purify waters and remove toxins, but they must be carefully planned to avoid damaging existing ecosystems. Wildlife habitats must also be considered in the design to minimize the impact of the project on animal species.
Finally, the social and economic aspects of the project must also be taken into account. Community participation and consultation is necessary to ensure that the project meets the needs of the people it serves. The costs of the project and its potential economic benefits must also be carefully evaluated to determine its feasibility.
In conclusion, designing a water system to control floods and move water to areas with drought requires a comprehensive and sustainable approach that considers environmental, social, and economic factors. While siphons and tunnels through mountains are possible solutions, they must be complemented by above-ground infrastructure and ecological considerations to ensure their sustainability.

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

The 2022 Election, What Worked Well, What To Do for '24

 I meant to comment on this election sooner. As it happens sometimes reality is more real than what we mean to do. I got a note from Gail of the Montgomery County Democrats, asking for thoughts about the election. 

It is pretty clear that the women and  young people were the biggest increase in actual voters  and influence in this election. The attack on health care for women of all ages by the Supreme Court and Republican Leadership drove much of this increase. 

For young people the increase in voter turnout was up considerably from past elections. The biggest issues for younger Democratic Voters were; accessible abortion and affordable health care (includes ongoing attack on the LGBT issues around health care) etc, inflation, climate change, gun violence prevention, abortion, discrimination and racism, and affordable education. This was pretty similar among young Democrats and young Independents.

Democracy and Voting Rights are also a bigger issue in some states. Still only about half of young voters under 24 were contacted before the election.

Some of the polling and exit polling suggests that outreach to younger voters substantially increased turnout. Personal, online through Social Media, and in person outreach all helped drive turnout.

The Democratic Women groups were very apparent in the updates from online social media and in the regular media and very active in the bigger towns and University cities

My suggestion for the upcoming election cycle for 2024 is to start a Democratic Youth group for each county or region in the state. Even if it is just a Facebook or a Twitter group in each area. Once up and running it can be handed over to a couple of local moderators to add posts or drive engagement. People in each county or region also have many local issues that are more important to them, and will relate to local issues that might not be so important in other places. Local forums to relate to people in there own area helps people stay involved.  BB

 

 

Saturday, February 4, 2023

WE HAVE NOT COME TO CURSE THE DARKNESS; WE HAVE COME TO LIGHT A CANDLE. Bobby Kennedy

 
WE HAVE NOT COME TO CURSE THE DARKNESS,
WE HAVE COME TO LIGHT A CANDLE. Bobby Kennedy

Forward.
Imagine this;
We are at a time in history, the fork in the road. The road less traveled; the land of plenty for every one. Enough food, clean air and clean water, to recreate the planet as the Garden of Eden,
The other is to continue down the road that got us all to this point of environmental collapse. The economic system that creates immense great wealth for the few, and poverty for many worldwide; or causes the destruction of the natural world for production of many consumer goods, planed and designed to ware out soon. A process that Poisons the fish and the fungus. Destroys the great forests for profits. Poisons our children and the planet with cheep foods that are lacking nutrition, are addictive and destroy our health. An economic system that creates massive war machines and armies to assure the continuation of the economic system that destroyed or polluted so much of the natural world. Or.
Save The Climate. Stop subsidizing agrochemical agriculture and fossil fuel farming. We still have a little time to stop this climate disaster.
Choose this day, which path to follow. All that is at stake is the continuation of life on our planet.

Methane and the Climate Change Problem. Can We Capture and Use it, Moving Away from Fossil Fuels?

  Methane clathrates (Think of Dry Ice made from Methane) are common constituents of the shallow marine geosphere. Methane hydrate is a pr...