WHAT
"Alternative Energy and the Americas," a talk by Stanford R. Ovshinsky, a noted scientist, engineer and innovator who has been called "the modern world's most important energy visionary." He was named "Hero for the Planet" by Time magazine in 1999 and "Hero for Chemistry" by the American Chemical Society in 2000.

The University of California, Berkeley's Center for Latin American Studies is hosting the event, which is free and open to the public.

WHEN
5 p.m., Tuesday, April 8

WHERE
Morrison Library, Room 101, in Doe Library, near the middle of campus. A map is online at: http://www.berkeley.edu/map/.

DETAILS
This self-taught scientist's career has combined path-breaking scientific work, the creation of new industries and a deep commitment to make a better world. Ovshinsky developed a new class of materials in an area of physics now called "Ovonics," after him. He has translated these discoveries into thin film solar technology that is mass produced, hydrogen fuel cells and storage devices that propel vehicles, and the nickel metal hydride batteries that power most hybrid cars.

"Ovshinsky's extraordinary work could prove vital to the development, employment and the environment in Latin America," says UC Berkeley professor Harley Shaiken, chair of the Center for Latin American Studies.

For more information, contact Jacqueline Sullivan at (510) 642-6035 or jsullivan@berkeley.edu.