This title examines one of the world's critical issues, energy security. Readers will learn the historical background of this issue leading up to its current and future impact on society. The safety, cost, and reliability of energy from sources such as nuclear, fossil fuels, and renewable resources are discussed in detail, as well as suppliers, importers, exporters, and our economic dependence on energy, as well as the threats to energy security from conflicts in the Middle East, terrorism, piracy, developing nations, and fossil fuels. Also covered are economic challenges, environmental concerns such as global warming, and legislation for energy independence and regulation of energy use, such as cap and trade plans. Engaging text, informative sidebars, and color photographs present information realistically, leaving readers with a thorough, honest interpretation of energy security. Features include a timeline, facts, additional resources, Web sites, a glossary, a bibliography, and an index. Essential Issues is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.