On April 11^th the U.S. Army revealed a new research lab in Warren, Michigan designed to develop alternative energy for power tanks and other military vehicles. Around 120 engineers and technicians will work at the research facility. Commanding general of the research lab, Kurt Stein, believes that the facility will be highly beneficial from both an economic and a safety perspective. Stein recently stated, “Increased energy securities is a top Army priority and is considered mission-critical,” and this new lab “will reduce soldier risk and improve energy efficiency.” The military uses around 2 percent of all energy consumed in the United States. Therefore, ’greener’ practices will certainly have large-scale implications on total energy consumption.

A new, portable solar power generator has been developed by HHV Solar Technologies Ltd. that can be transported by air. This solar power generator weighs 415 kg and can be air-lifted into locations in need of power. This new technology is intended for use in locations inflicted with natural disasters or other emergencies that are unable to provide energy from traditional power sources. HHV Solar chairperson Prasanth Sakhamuri explained one benefit of this technology noting, “Our portable solar power generator can be deployed by the armed forces in border areas or for rescue and relief operations at any mishap place where there is no access to conventional or alternative power supply.”

Spring is a great time of the year for the sporting world. In addition to baseball’s opening day, the month of April brings the excitement of hockey and basketball playoffs. In terms of variety, spring is likely the best time of the year for sports. Being a sports fan myself, I keenly watched baseball’s 2012 opening game at the new home of the Miami Marlins: Marlins Park.  As I watched the game, I began wondering steps the sporting world is currently taking to promote environmental sustainability. Are sports franchises acting with responsibility to their surrounding communities?