U.S. Navy spells out green agenda

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy aims to use alternative energy to meet 50 percent of its needs within the next 10 years, an environmental official said in Washington.

U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Philip Cullom, a director of environmental readiness for the force, said the Navy was testing a command boat that used a 50-50 blend of algae-based fuel and conventional petroleum as part of a green-energy campaign.

Cullom, the Pentagon said, wants the Navy to take the early lead in finding ways to use alternative energy in a way that enhances energy security while diversifying the resource base.

"Our goal as a navy is to be an early adopter of new technologies that enhance national security in an environmentally sustainable way," he added.

Cullom said the Navy was moving ahead with plans to get 50 percent of its energy consumption from alternative sources by 2020.

"It's not just about natural security, because that's what most people think of when they think of going green," the Pentagon quoted him as saying. "Our energy program also strengthens national security."