Explainers

One of the basic materials of human civilization, wood still plays a central role in 21st-century life—and in the problem of tropical deforestation. But wood can also be part of the solution.

Found in everything from shampoo to donuts, palm oil is now the most common vegetable oil in the world—and also one of the world's leading deforestation drivers.

While many commodities are driving deforestation today, all of them take a back seat to beef cattle. But there are ways to reduce beef's deforestation impact.

Rooftop solar has never been more affordable for home owners, business owners, and their communities.

Concentrating solar power (CSP) systems generate electricity using the sun’s heat.

Learn how utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) power plants provide carbon-free electricity.

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are based on a high-tech but remarkably simple technology that converts sunlight directly to electricity.

Nuclear power in the United States has consistently cost far more than expected, with taxpayers and ratepayers forced to pick up the tab.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles combine a gasoline or diesel engine with an electric motor and a large rechargeable battery.

Biomass (plant material and animal waste) is the oldest source of renewable energy, used since our ancestors learned the secret of fire.

Resource center for effective implementation of California's Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, the first-ever statewide requirement for groundwater management.

A hugely valuable crop with many uses, from animal feed to biofuels, soybeans also have an unfortunate by-product: tropical deforestation.