Oil, coal and natural gas–fossil fuels, are essential sources of energy. They are important to America’s industry and economy.

Many products of the petroleum industry are all around us. They are so varied and have become so commonplace, we may not realize what they are and how they affect our lives.

Since the discovery and production of crude oil, the petroleum industry has been the world leader in research and development of petroleum products. It has been dedicated to strengthening national competitiveness and security, enhancing the standard of living and affording a better quality of life for society as a whole. Dedicated employees, in an industry that America could not live without, have reduced emissions, improved lubrication and increased fuel mileage.

Alternative fuels and alternative fuel vehicles, would decrease America’s dependence on foreign oil imports and decrease the demand on petroleum for gasoline and diesel.

Answers to Energy IQ Survey

1. D
2. A
3. B
4. B
5. D
6. A
7. A
8. C
9. B
10. C
11. D
12. D
13. C
14. B
15. D
16. B

Resources

Alternative Fuels Data Center – www.afdc.doe.gov

American Gas Association – www.aga.org

American Petroleum Institute – www.api.org

Edison Electric Institute – www.eei.org

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network, Office of Transportation Technologies. Includes AFV Fleet Buyer's Guide, DOE’s Fuel Economy site, consumer tips and much, much more – www.ott.doe.gov

Energy Information Administration – www.eia.doe.gov

Environmental Protection Agency – www.epa.gov

National Clean Cities. Includes links to all local Clean Cities Coalitions – www.ccities.doe.gov

Natural Gas Vehicle Coalition – www.ngvc.org

U.S. Department of Energy’s site has information and links to support research on energy usage in the U.S. Includes a site on AFVs and specific articles on air quality and national security – www.energy.gov/transportation/index.html

How to Use This Poster

Teaching about alternative fuels, alternative fuel vehicles and the consequences of using them is important and can be done employing a variety of disciplines. The information on the back of the poster relates to the illustrations on the front. Prior to displaying the instructional poster, photocopy the panels on the reverse side for classroom use. We encourage you to use the poster to support and enhance your teaching and your students’ learning.

Acknowledgments

NEF recognizes the Salt Lake Clean Cities Coalition, the Utah Energy Office and the U.S. Department of Energy for their support. We also acknowledge Jon Burton, the poster artist, and the other members of the poster’s development and production team.

National Energy Foundation

NEF is a unique nonprofit organization dedicated to the development, dissemination, and implementation of supplementary educational materials, programs, and courses. These resources for education relate primarily to energy, water, natural resources, technology, conservation, and the environment. All of NEF’s educational resources and services are designed to enrich and enhance instruction. They recognize the importance and contribution of natural resources to our economy, national security, the environment, and our quality of life.

NEF is devoted to the implementation of a variety of innovative teacher training and student programs. The Foundation, supported by the education community, businesses, associations, and government agencies, has more than two decades of expertise in establishing and promoting educational partnerships. NEF invites you to participate in strengthening these fundamental subjects that are vitally important to the future of our nation.