This book is a vital resource for all those who want to play their part in confronting what has been called "the greatest challenge of our time." This layperson's guide will help you understand the technologies and systems needed to achieve true sustainability. It explains how we can reduce greenhouse emissions, improve energy efficiency across the economy, develop a diverse portfolio of carbon-neutral energy sources, and harvest energy from nature (solar, wind, hydro, and other sources) as well as from the waste stream. It also examines innovative new solutions for moving and storing energy in buildings, industry, and transportation. With over 140 helpful figures and tables, this book provides the "energy literacy" needed to participate in this essential transition to sustainability, both as energy consumers and as citizen-participants in the decisions made by society.