I recall some research on sodium nuclear reactors which operated at far greater efficiency and generated almost no waste. There were serious engineering issues to overcome (corrosive issues when moisture hit the molten sodium), but I would think that in the 30 years since their initial experiments that they would have figure these out.

And Pete's comments regarding citrus are valid, although I would be comfortable saying those general drawbacks are prevalent in any crop (wheat, corn, sugar, etc.).

But I don't know what point you were making about that. Should we stop growing food in large parcels by people trained for a specific crop and return to subsistence farming? I know of no agricultural area that doesn't suffer from each and every point you outlined.

Or should we just buy our food from other areas (or countries) that have cheaper labor?

I am wary of the danger of competition between energy production and food production. It can only end badly...

Could Florida land be used more efficiently? Perhaps. How much CO2 and other waste is generated by the production of solar panels? Is this offset by the energy generation over the recommended lifespan of the product?

Not saying citrus is better, but the 30 year effective (productive) life of a tree generates a good bit of food, and during the same period, removes a good chunk of CO2 from the atmosphere. Don't know how much CO2 the 125# per acre of N fertilizer produces, but I would think it is offset for the most part.


I wish to hear more on this catsailing/farming site. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />