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"The desalination debate—lessons learned thus far" by Alon Tal
The journal analyzes three countries’ data as concerned with the impacts of their desalination plants. Generally, the data shows that desalination is a feasible solution to the increasing drought problem. The process, however, will most likely remain a luxury only found in affluent countries due to its hefty cost. -
"Sustainable Cities" by Joel E.Cohen, Daniel L.Doctoroff, Martin Filler, and Frank A. Bennack
A journal record of an important environmental meeting that was held on December 9th, 2007 in New York City. The meeting was a stepping stone for achieving the environmental stability we see in cities today. -
"Shiny, slick and sustainable: Abu Dhabi's Masdar City is an experiment in sustainability built on oil money. But will it work?" by Jennifer Taylor
The author goes on to talk about the intentions behind all of the sustainable building in Abu Dhabi. Taylor points out that the oil rich Abu Dhabi may have had some other intentions in mind. She suspects that with the fear of being wiped out as the world oil supply is diminishing, Abu Dhabi millionaires are looking for a new way to maintain their luxurious lifestyles. -
"Renewable Energy in Abu Dhabi: Opportunities and Challenges" by Goldsmith, Mezher and Toufic.
The article discusses the renewable energy efforts currently taking place in Abu Dhabi and expresses the goals of the country to become more environmentally sustainable. -
"Life cycle cost and energy analysis of a Net Zero Energy House with solar combisystem" by Mitchell Leckner and Radu Zmeureanu
This article analyzes the costs and the benefits that come along with owning a net zero house. This net-zero house concept would make the house completely independent of the grid with the exception that it can sell excess energy back to the city. The article concluded with the fact that although we have the knowledge to create this type of housing, ultimately people will never break even from a cost perspective. -
"Smart Cities" by David Hatch
Hatch discusses the fact that cities, “represent the leading edge of a rapidly expanding global movement to redefine urban space” (Hatch). Often times cities are frowned upon because of their dense population and moreover, their heavy oil and coal use; this new technology, however, will change the way we view cities. The article embraced the new technologies but also pointed out various negatives.
