Energy use in meat processing in the Midwest
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"The events of the past several years have raised concern about the availability and price of energy in the U.S. Americans, who had long believed that they possessed limitless resources, are finding higher energy prices and limited energy availability. This threat was particularly evident during the winter of 1976-77 when cold weather forced economic hardship on many people and businesses. When energy consumption data are viewed from the standpoint of energy types, it is apparent that the American economy is heavily dependent on the two fossil energy sources (natural gas and petroleum) which are in danger of depletion. Almost three-quarters of U.S. energy consumption is based on less than 10 percent of its known energy reserves. The food system is equally dependent on these same energy forms. Data on usage, oil imports and balance of payments clearly show the seriousness of the energy situation and the need for energy planning. The more obvious short- run approach to the problem is to use limited energy resources more prudently in order to prolong their availability. One of the first steps in any conservation program is the accurate measurement of current consumption patterns in all segments of the economy and in all parts of the country. Such information could provide some measure of the lead time before supplies are diminished, and could suggest potential methods for slowing the depletion of energy resources. Unfortunately, energy consumption data are scarcely reported. Firms either do not report such data or they are reluctant to do so because they fear being "stuck" with the reported numbers, should rationing be imposed. The lack of reliable data on energy consumption can lead to public policies that are both inequitable and ineffective."--Page 1.
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