Interview

Q:What exactly does your work now entail?

A: I'm trying to find a solution to this energy problem. A couple of colleages and I have found a way to recycle CO². Actually, it's possible to take energy from the air. First, you have to take the moisture out of the air; no matter where you go on Earth, there will be moisture in the air... then you can take out the carbon dioxide... This would make CO² an unlimited source of energy.

Q:Which aspect of your work do you enjoy the most?

A: I like to research and teach. Researching is studying it, and eventually finding the answer, the solution... I enjoy working on projects that are on world- wide scale, that will effect mankind. It's a wonderful feeling.

Q:As a chemist, what are your views on coal as an energy source?

A: I believe that we should use all of Nature's presents to us, all of the energy, including coal and oil. At the same time, we should use coal in a sensible way.

Q:What part of your work that earned you the Nobel Prize was the most valuable?

A: It was all important; it was the foundation of hydrocarbons.

Q:With your experience, what would you suggest as an alternative to coal?

A: As I said earlier, I think that all of the energy should be used, even coal... It is possible to make coal cleaner, or recycle carbon. Nature gave us a way to recycle- look at all the plants around you... If you add CO² with water (hydrogen, specifically) it produces methanol. This is another way to recycle carbon.

Q:China has started using other energy sources like hydroelectric power, solar power and wind energy. Do you think this is a liable solution?

A: Again, we need to use all of our energy sources. Everything has drawbacks...

Q:Do you think China is doing enough to reduce pollution?

A: No, but no one is. Of course, that's not an excuse, but you need to have priorities... I am very optomistic...

Q:Out of solar energy, wind power, and hydroelectricity, which, in your opinion, is the most beneficial or efficient?

A: ...We all depend on the sun. As long as the sun is there, we will have energy. If you think about it... wind power, for example, wind is because that certain areas are heated more than others. The only problem with using the sun is capturing it and transporting it.

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