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The evolution of my career from purely academic research in experimental nuclear physics to science, followed by involvement in public affairs and administration, is described. Highlights in this trajectory are my involvement with the efforts to improve support for science activities and the protection of human rights of scientists in Brazil during the period of military government (1964–1984). The future role of nuclear energy in Brazil marked my transition toward a growing interest in energy alternatives and renewables. Finally, my activities first as the Rector of the University of São Paulo and then as a cabinet member in the federal government are described, as are the role I played in defusing the nuclear race between Argentina and Brazil and my participation in the Climate Conference in Rio in 1992. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents the comments and views of Jose Goldemberg, Francis D. Yamba, Ashok Khosla and Kalipada Chatterjee on `Joint Implementation: A Strategy for Combating Global Warming?' of L.D. Danny Harvey and Elizabeth J. Bush. Brief overview on the scope and function of joint implementation (JI); Counterreaction of Harvey and Bush on the comments of the four authors.

Presents the Energy Economics Award Address by Jose Goldemberg, rector of the University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Presents a letter to the editor in response to "Forging a More Effective Global Climate Treaty," on the Kyoto Protocol, in the December, 2004 issue of "Environment."

Looks into the relationship between the lack of access to electricity and the health status of the populations of less-developed countries (LDC). Comparison of the energy consumption of industrialized countries and LDC; Dependence on fossil fuels; Forecast on the trends of energy use and demand; Sustainability of development for LDC; Scenarios created by the World Energy Council (WEC).

Examines the role of science in the developing countries of the late 1990s. How researchers should not expect scientific work done in developing countries to follow models set in developed countries; Helping to adapt technology to the developing countries ability; Importance of incorporating new science techniques into education; Involvement in governments; Reasons why developing countries should avoid ineffective programs and establish systems that rewards solving practical problems.

The evolution of thinking about energy is discussed. When the authors began collaborating 20 years ago, energy was typically considered from a growth-oriented, supply-side perspective, with a focus on consumption trends and how to expand supplies to meet rising demand. They were deeply troubled by the environmental, security and equity implications of that approach. For instance, about two billion people lack access to affordable modern energy, seriously limiting their opportunities for a better life. And energy is a significant contributor to environmental problems, including indoor air pollution, urban air pollution, acidification, and global warming. The authors saw the need toevolve a different perspective in which energy is provided in ways that help solve such serious problems. They argued that energy must become an instrument for advancing sustainable development--economically viable, need-oriented, self-reliant and environmentally sound development--and that the focus should be on the end uses of energy and the services that energy provides. Energy technological options that can help meet sustainable development goals are discussed. The necessity of developing and employing innovative technological solutions is stressed. The possibilities of technological leapfrogging that could enable developing countries to avoid repeating the mistakes of the industrialized countries is illustrated with a discussion of ethanol in Brazil. The role foreign direct investment might play in bringing advanced technologies to developing countries is highlighted. Near- and long-term strategies for rural energy are discussed. Finally, policy issues are considered for evolving the energy system so that it will be consistent with and supportive of sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides insight on the importance of a sustainable system for biofuel production. It provides an overview on the sustainability issues faced by cellulosic biofuels industry and hobble grain-based biofuels. It cites that although cellulosic biofuels have many positive impact in social and environmental sector, the realization of its benefit still depends on which, where, and how cellulosic biofuels are produced. It discusses several factors that are needed to be considered in the cellulosic biofuels production including marginal lands, crop choices, and harvesting strategy. Furthermore, it points out the importance of implementing a science-based policy and comprehensive and collaborative research agenda in order to establish a sustainable biofuel production systems.