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Wind is the fastest growing energy source in the world, yet it has struggled for acceptance in the United States. However, in southwest Minnesota, wind energy is a growing source of local energy and income for farmers. Elsewhere, local farmers have taken it upon themselves to form wind co-ops, with the same positive economic results. The Minnesota state government plays a key role in wind policy, begging the question: will the rest of the U.S. follow Minnesota's lead?

A cleaner energy future depends, in large part, on responsible energy consumption in the developing world. Founded by Nobel Peace Prize-winner Muhammad Yunus, the Grameen Shakti organization in Bangladesh distributes small solar energy systems and portable bio-gas systems to rural Bangladeshis, empowering women and the poor in the process.

In America, transportation consumes nearly 70 percent of all oil used. Can efficient automobile design offer a solution to the environmental damage caused by our beloved cars? General Motors unveils the Volt, a super-hybrid vehicle, and the fuel cell-powered Sequel; technology firm Fiberforge shows off the latest in ultra-lightweight materials for car manufacturing.

In response to the oil crisis of the 1970s, Brazil created a domestic ethanol industry that is thriving on all levels, from production, to distribution at gas stations to nationwide adoption of flex-fuel cars. Looking at policies, infrastructure, manufacturing and consumer acceptance as keys to longevity, this episode examines what we can learn from Brazil's extraordinary success with ethanol.

Could California's progressive energy policies influence the United States towards a cleaner energy future? The laws that California passed to regulate greenhouse gas emissions perpetuate the state's reputation for environmental leadership, driving it to become a global leader in clean air technologies.

Renewables, bio-fuels, solar, wind and other alternative energy sources are being explored to solve the world's global energy problem, but the ubiquity of coal and the power of nuclear make them impossible to ignore despite their many downsides. With new developments in carbon capture and sequestration and improved nuclear technologies, these highly controversial resources may be able to offer solutions to the world's increasing demand for power.