As environmental awareness spreads, people are finding more alternatives to our energy needs. The cheaper and more accessible the fuel sources are, the better.

Well, ranchers have now discovered a new use for cattle manure - aside from fertilizer. Ever wonder why manure smells nasty? It gives off a rank gas called methane which can be used as fuel. Producing ethanol from corn and other biofuels uses too much coal and natural gas so methane can be used as an alternative.

In February, the first methanol closed-loop system plant will begin operations. They will keep cattle in the plant and collect the manure. The methane is harnessed to generate power for the entire plant. The corn and grain would then be used to get ethanol and finally the byproduct (wet grain) of ethanol production would be used to feed the cattle. Efficient, don't you think?

If everything goes well, the plant as well as the environment will see great results. Livestock produce a lot of greenhouse gas, and the plant could produce alternative-fuel for less.

Plans to harness landfill are also under way. Energy for less is something that would benefit all of us, including the environment.