If the present era of human civilization is seen in terms of its defining technologies and resources, humans are now living in the “oil age.” In numbers: the world currently uses roughly 75-80 million barrels of crude oil per day. How is such a massive need met, here and abroad, year after year? Explore EXTREME OIL’s guide to the science behind oil production. GO

Cheap and abundant fossil fuels once seemed inexhaustible. But now an ever larger proportion of an ever-growing population is joining the developed world. Where will we get the energy to support all this growth? One answer is by shifting to such renewable resources as solar power and wind. Another is to build homes with natural energy efficiency. Find out how to turn your home into an Eco House. GO

Last year, the deforestation of the Amazon rose sharply after three consecutive years in decline. Alarmed, the Brazilian government responded by launching Operation Arc of Fire, a campaign to deter …

Legendary scientist Dian Fossey lived among the mountain gorillas of Rwanda for nearly 20 years, forging close relationships with individual apes. Her work, which showed the world that gorillas are social beings full of curiosity and affection, paved the way for gorilla conservation and research until her life was cruelly cut short as a result of her efforts. Nature has more about her work and life. GO

Parents have a new reason to plant their kids on a piano bench after school. A new study conducted by researchers at Harvard Medical School indicates that children who diligently …