1. What types of financial assistance programs are available for low-income households to access gas education resources in Arkansas?

There are several types of financial assistance programs available for low-income households in Arkansas to access gas education resources. These include:

1) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This federally funded program provides financial assistance to low-income households to help pay their heating and cooling bills, including those related to natural gas.

2) Weatherization Assistance Program: This program provides free energy efficiency upgrades for low-income households, such as insulation and weather stripping, which can help reduce gas consumption and save on energy costs.

3) Low Income Home Energy Credit: The state of Arkansas offers a tax credit for eligible low-income individuals or families to help offset the cost of heating and cooling their home.

4) Gas Utility Payment Plans: Some gas utility companies in Arkansas offer payment plans for customers who are struggling to pay their bills. These plans can help with budgeting and make payments more manageable.

5) Nonprofit Organizations: There are also several nonprofit organizations in Arkansas that provide financial assistance for energy-related expenses, including gas education resources.

6) Community Action Agencies: These local agencies may offer various energy-related services, including education resources, financial assistance, and energy efficiency programs for low-income households.

7) Energy Assistance Grants: Some cities or counties in Arkansas offer grants specifically for low-income households that can be used towards energy-related expenses, including gas education resources.

It is recommended that individuals contact their local utility company or community action agency for more information on specific programs available in their area.

2. How does Arkansas support the expansion of natural gas infrastructure to promote gas education?

There are several ways that Arkansas supports the expansion of natural gas infrastructure to promote gas education:

1. Through partnerships and collaborations: Arkansas has formed partnerships and collaborations between state agencies, utility companies, and educational institutions to promote natural gas education.

2. Funding for training and education programs: The state provides funding for training and education programs related to natural gas infrastructure, such as training for technicians and educators.

3. Incentives for businesses to use natural gas: In order to encourage businesses to use natural gas, the state offers incentives such as tax credits or rebates for installing natural gas infrastructure.

4. Promotion of natural gas projects: Arkansas actively promotes new projects related to natural gas infrastructure through various initiatives like energy summits, workshops, and conferences.

5. Support for research and development: The state invests in research and development initiatives focused on improving natural gas infrastructure and technologies.

6. Regulatory support: Arkansas has a regulatory environment that supports the expansion of safe and efficient natural gas infrastructure by working closely with industry stakeholders.

7. Public awareness campaigns: The state conducts public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the benefits of natural gas as a clean and reliable source of energy.

8. Support for alternative fuel vehicles: Arkansas offers financial incentives for the purchase of alternative fuel vehicles, including those powered by compressed or liquefied natural gas, which helps create demand for expanded natural gas infrastructure.

9. Education in schools: The state includes information about natural gas in its science curriculums at all grade levels to raise awareness among future generations about its benefits as an energy source.

10. Consumer assistance programs: To help households transition to using more natural gas, Arkansas offers consumer assistance programs that provide information about how best to take advantage of the available resources when converting their homes’ heating systems from oil or electricity to natural gas.

3. Can residents in rural areas of Arkansas access gas education resources similar to those in urban areas?

Yes, residents in rural areas of Arkansas can access gas education resources similar to those in urban areas. The following are some examples:

1. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Rural Electric Initiative: The VA has partnered with rural electric cooperatives to provide energy efficiency education and outreach programs to veterans and their families living in rural areas. These programs are aimed at promoting the efficient use of electricity, including natural gas, through education, workshops, and community events.

2. Cooperative Extension Service: The University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service offers a variety of educational resources on energy efficiency and renewable energy for residents in rural areas. This includes publications, fact sheets, webinars, workshops, and on-site energy assessments.

3. Rural Natural Gas Association: The Rural Natural Gas Association (RNGA) is a statewide organization that represents the interests of natural gas service providers in rural communities across Arkansas. The RNGA works closely with these gas providers to educate residents on safe and efficient use of natural gas.

4. State Government Programs: The Arkansas Energy Office offers various programs designed to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption in rural communities statewide. These include financing options for energy efficiency upgrades, community-based energy audits, and workshops on efficient use of natural gas.

5. Utility Companies: Rural residents can also access educational resources from their local utility companies. Many natural gas providers have online resources such as energy saving tips, calculators for estimating annual usage costs, rebates and incentives for efficient appliances or home improvements.

In addition to these resources, there may be local organizations or community groups that offer educational programs specifically geared towards residents in rural areas. It is recommended to check with your local library or town hall for information on any available programs or events focused on gas education in your area.

4. Are there any state-run workshops or seminars on gas education in Arkansas?

Yes, the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality offers workshops and seminars on natural gas safety for businesses and communities. Additionally, the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission hosts educational seminars and workshops focused on oil and gas development in the state.

5. What educational materials or resources does the government provide regarding safety and efficiency when using gas energy in Arkansas?

The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) provides information and resources about natural gas safety. This includes educational materials, such as brochures and fact sheets, on topics such as carbon monoxide safety, natural gas pipeline safety, and energy efficiency tips for gas appliances.

In addition, the Arkansas Public Service Commission (APSC) offers resources on safe use of natural gas. The APSC website provides information on detecting a gas leak, the responsibilities of both customers and natural gas service providers in maintaining safe pipelines, and emergency procedures in case of a gas leak or outage.

The Arkansas Energy Office (AEO) also offers resources related to natural gas safety and energy efficiency. The AEO website has a section dedicated to natural gas safety and includes tips for preventing accidents, understanding your bill, and maintaining your appliances. The office also offers financial assistance programs to help low-income individuals improve the energy efficiency of their homes, including upgrades to natural gas systems.

Additionally, many local utility companies in Arkansas offer educational materials and resources on natural gas safety for their customers. These may include safety tips for using natural gas appliances and information on how to recognize potential hazards.

Overall, the government in Arkansas provides a variety of educational materials and resources to promote safe and efficient use of gas energy.

6. Is there a statewide network or platform where individuals can connect with others interested in promoting gas education in Arkansas?

The Arkansas Natural Gas Association appears to be a statewide network that connects individuals and organizations interested in promoting natural gas education in Arkansas. They offer resources, events, and contacts for those who want to learn more about natural gas and its use in the state.

7. Are there any tax credits or rebates offered by the state to encourage consumers to upgrade to more efficient gas equipment in their homes?

Yes, most states offer tax credits or rebates for upgrading to more efficient gas equipment in homes. These incentives vary by state and may include:

1. State Energy Tax Credits: Many states offer tax credits to homeowners who upgrade to more energy-efficient gas furnaces, boilers, or water heaters. These credits can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the type of equipment and its efficiency level.

2. Utility Rebates: Some utility companies also offer rebates for replacing old gas appliances with newer, more efficient models. These rebates can be found on the utility company’s website or by contacting their customer service department.

3. Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Loans: Some states offer low-interest loans for homeowners who install energy-efficient gas equipment in their homes. These loans can help offset the upfront costs of purchasing and installing new equipment.

4. Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): The Department of Energy’s WAP offers grants to low-income households to improve their home’s energy efficiency, including upgrading gas equipment.

5. Federal Tax Credits: The federal government offers tax credits for energy-efficient home upgrades through the Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit and the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit.

It is recommended that consumers check with a local HVAC contractor or visit their state’s energy office website for specific information on available tax credits and rebates for upgrading to more efficient gas equipment in their area.

8. How does the state regulate the quality and accessibility of natural gas being provided to its citizens, particularly in regards to education about potential dangers and precautions?

The regulation of natural gas quality and accessibility falls under the jurisdiction of each state’s public utility commission or energy regulatory agency.

State regulators ensure the quality of natural gas being provided to citizens by enforcing standards set by federal and state agencies, such as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These standards cover factors such as odorization, pressure levels, and purity of the gas. Utilities are required to regularly test their gas supply to ensure it meets these standards.

In terms of accessibility, state regulators also oversee the construction and maintenance of natural gas pipelines, ensuring that they are properly located, maintained, and inspected for safety. They also oversee emergency response plans for gas leaks or accidents.

Education about potential dangers and precautions associated with natural gas is typically provided by state utility companies through customer notifications, safety brochures, and advertising campaigns. They may also offer educational materials on their websites or through community outreach programs. In some states, there are mandatory education requirements for customers before they can receive natural gas service.

Additionally, state regulators may require utilities to conduct safety training for their employees to ensure proper handling and response in case of emergencies. They also review incident reports from utilities to identify any potential hazards or recurring issues that need to be addressed.

Overall, state regulators play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of natural gas being provided to citizens by setting standards for quality and accessibility and promoting education about potential dangers.

9. What role do local community organizations play in promoting gas education at a state level in Arkansas?

Local community organizations play an important role in promoting gas education at a state level in Arkansas. These organizations can include non-profits, chambers of commerce, business associations, and environmental groups.

1. Providing resources and information: Local community organizations can serve as a valuable resource for the public by providing education materials and information about natural gas production, distribution, and use. They can also partner with industry experts to offer training workshops or informational sessions to educate the community about the benefits and risks of natural gas.

2. Advocating for safety and responsible practices: Community organizations can advocate for safety regulations and oversight measures related to natural gas production, distribution, and use at the state level. This can include raising awareness about potential hazards and promoting responsible practices that protect both public health and the environment.

3. Organizing community events: Community organizations can hold events such as forums or town hall meetings to bring together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss issues related to natural gas. These events provide an opportunity for experts to share their knowledge and concerns with policymakers, industry representatives, and the general public.

4. Collaborating with government agencies: Community organizations can collaborate with state agencies responsible for regulating natural gas operations to ensure proper oversight of industry activities. They can also work with these agencies to develop policies or guidelines for best practices in natural gas production.

5. Partnering with schools: Local community organizations can partner with schools to provide educational programs on natural gas for students at all levels. This may include curriculum development, hosting field trips, or sponsoring science fair projects related to natural gas.

6. Engaging in public outreach: In order to reach a wider audience, local community organizations can engage in public outreach efforts such as creating informational brochures or videos, utilizing social media platforms, or attending trade shows or fairs where they can interact directly with members of the public.

Overall, local community organizations play a crucial role in promoting gas education at a state level in Arkansas by providing valuable resources, advocating for safety and responsible practices, fostering dialogue between stakeholders, and engaging in public outreach efforts.

10. How does Arkansas ensure that all residents, regardless of income or background, have access to reliable and up-to-date information on gas safety and efficiency?

Arkansas has several initiatives in place to ensure that all residents have access to reliable and up-to-date information on gas safety and efficiency.

1. Education and outreach programs: The Arkansas Public Service Commission (APSC) conducts regular educational and outreach programs to educate residents on gas safety and efficiency. This includes workshops, seminars, webinars, and other training programs for homeowners, renters, businesses, and schools.

2. Website resources: The APSC website provides a wealth of information on gas safety and efficiency, including tips for using natural gas safely and efficiently, important safety information during an emergency or outage, and links to additional resources.

3. Energy assistance programs: Low-income residents can apply for energy assistance programs through the state’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). These programs provide financial assistance for energy costs and may also include educational resources on efficient use of natural gas.

4. Utility company outreach: Gas companies operating in Arkansas are required to conduct regular outreach campaigns to educate their customers on gas safety and efficiency. This may include informational brochures, bill inserts, social media campaigns, or community events.

5. Partnership with nonprofits: The APSC works closely with organizations such as the Arkansas Community Action Agencies Association (ACAAA) to promote gas safety awareness among low-income communities. These partnerships help reach vulnerable populations who may not have access to other forms of education.

6. Building codes: The Arkansas Energy Code sets minimum standards for energy efficiency in buildings across the state. Mandatory compliance with these codes ensures that all new constructions meet certain energy efficiency requirements, providing residents with safe and efficient homes powered by natural gas.

7.Benchmarking program: The Arkansas Public Service Commission implemented a Natural Gas Benchmarking program that encourages utilities to offer voluntary benchmarking services for their customers.This enables households to compare their natural gas use against similar homes in similar weather conditions.This would allow them see how their bills compared.They can see if there is an opportunity to be more efficient and save money on natural gas bills even throughout a very cold winter.

8. Energy audits: Residents can request an energy audit from their natural gas company to identify potential energy efficiency improvements in their homes. This service is usually provided free of charge or at a low cost and can help residents determine ways to reduce their energy consumption and costs.

9. Customer service programs: Gas companies in Arkansas have dedicated customer service departments that provide information and answer questions about gas safety and efficiency. This ensures that all customers, regardless of income or background, have access to knowledgeable representatives who can address any concerns they may have.

10. Emergency preparedness plans: The APSC requires gas companies to have emergency preparedness plans in place to respond to potential safety hazards, including leaks or outages. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to ensure the safety of all residents in the event of an emergency situation related to natural gas use.

11. Are there any specialized programs for schools or educational institutions within Arkansas that focus on teaching students about responsible use of natural gas?

I was not able to find any specialized programs specifically focused on teaching students about responsible use of natural gas within Arkansas. However, the Arkansas Public Service Commission offers educational resources and outreach programs for schools and youth groups as part of their overall mission to promote energy conservation and awareness among the state’s citizens. Additionally, many gas utility companies in Arkansas offer educational materials and presentations for schools upon request.

12. In what ways does the state collaborate with local utilities and companies to promote greener and more sustainable use of natural gas through education initiatives?

There are a few ways that the state can collaborate with local utilities and companies to promote greener and more sustainable use of natural gas through education initiatives:

1. Providing grants and funding: The state can provide grants and funding to local utilities and companies for implementing greener technologies, such as investing in renewable natural gas infrastructure or developing training programs for employees to use natural gas more efficiently.

2. Education campaigns: The state can also fund education campaigns to raise awareness about the benefits of using natural gas as a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels. This could include educational materials, workshops, and public events.

3. Partnerships with universities and research institutions: The state can partner with universities and research institutions to conduct studies on the environmental impacts of natural gas usage, develop new technologies, and share best practices for sustainable use.

4. Incentives and rebates: In some cases, the state may offer incentives or rebates for businesses that implement energy-efficient natural gas systems or switch from oil or propane heating to clean-burning natural gas.

5. Collaborative workshops and forums: State agencies can work with local utilities and companies to organize workshops and forums where they can exchange information on sustainable practices, discuss challenges, and develop joint solutions.

6. Regulatory support: The state can also provide regulatory support through policies that encourage the use of cleaner fuels, such as setting emissions standards or requiring a certain percentage of renewable sources in the natural gas supply mix.

7. Demonstration projects: Joint demonstration projects between state agencies, local utilities, and companies can showcase innovative technologies or practices in action, providing practical examples for others to follow.

8. Green certification programs: State governments may support green certification programs for businesses that demonstrate their commitment to sustainability in areas like energy efficiency, emissions reduction, and renewable energy usage.

9. Community outreach: State agencies can support community outreach efforts by working with local utilities and companies to educate residents about energy conservation measures, energy-efficiency programs, and the benefits of using natural gas.

10. Collaboration on sustainability goals: The state can collaborate with local utilities and companies to set mutual sustainability goals, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions or increasing the use of renewable natural gas. This creates a shared sense of responsibility and can drive progress towards a greener future.

13. Does Arkansas’s government provide any incentives or grants for businesses looking to implement more energy-efficient practices involving natural gas?

Yes, the Arkansas Energy Office offers several programs and incentives to help businesses reduce their energy consumption and costs through the use of natural gas. These include:

1. The Energy Efficiency Loan Program: This program provides low-interest loans to businesses for implementing energy-efficient projects, including those involving natural gas.

2. Arkansas Gas Technology Institute (AGTI): This program offers technical assistance and training to businesses interested in using natural gas technologies.

3. Weatherization Assistance Program: Low-income businesses may qualify for grants to improve the energy efficiency of their buildings through the use of natural gas.

4. Arkansas Industrial Energy Clearinghouse (AIEC): This program provides technical and financial assistance to industrial facilities looking to upgrade equipment and processes to increase energy efficiency, including those related to the use of natural gas.

5. Federal Tax Deductions: Businesses that invest in qualifying energy-efficient commercial buildings or systems, including natural gas heating and cooling systems, may be eligible for federal tax deductions.

6. Arkansas Alternative Fuel Vehicle Conversion Tax Credit: Businesses that convert their fleet vehicles to run on compressed natural gas (CNG) can receive a tax credit up to $25,000 per vehicle from the state.

For more information on these programs and incentives, businesses can contact the Arkansas Energy Office or visit their website.

14. Are there any dedicated helplines or websites provided by the government specifically for addressing questions related to natural gas safety and energy conservation efforts within Arkansas?

Yes, the Arkansas Public Service Commission (APSC) operates a Gas Safety Division that is responsible for overseeing and enforcing the safety standards of natural gas utilities within the state. The APSC website contains resources and information related to natural gas safety, including a dedicated page with links to external resources for energy efficiency and conservation efforts.

15. How is data collected and monitored regarding consumer knowledge and understanding of safe and efficient gas usage in Arkansas?

Data on consumer knowledge and understanding of safe and efficient gas usage in Arkansas is collected and monitored through various channels, such as:

1. Surveys: State agencies or utility companies may conduct surveys to gather data on consumer knowledge and understanding of gas safety and efficiency. Surveys can be done online, over the phone, or through mail.

2. Customer complaints: Complaints received from customers regarding gas safety or efficiency issues provide valuable insights into areas where consumers may not have adequate knowledge or understanding.

3. Public education campaigns: Gas utility companies often run public education campaigns to raise awareness about safe and efficient gas usage among consumers. The effectiveness of these campaigns can be measured through consumer feedback or surveys.

4. Energy consumption data: Utility companies track energy consumption data to monitor trends in gas usage among consumers. This data can indicate if there are any changes in consumer behavior towards safer and more efficient gas usage.

5. Safety inspections: Regular safety inspections of gas equipment, such as furnaces and water heaters, can also provide information on the level of consumer knowledge and understanding regarding their proper use.

6. Focus groups and interviews: Market research agencies may conduct focus groups or interviews with a sample of consumers to gather their opinions and feedback on gas safety and efficiency.

7. Online analytics: Gas utility companies can monitor website traffic and engagement metrics related to their gas safety and efficiency content, providing insights into what topics consumers are interested in learning more about.

8. Partner agencies: State agencies responsible for regulating the gas industry may work with partners such as universities or research institutions to conduct studies on consumer knowledge and understanding of safe and efficient gas usage.

Overall, the collection and monitoring of this data helps state agencies, utility companies, and other organizations understand the current level of consumer knowledge regarding safe and efficient gas usage in Arkansas, identify any gaps or areas that need improvement, and develop targeted educational initiatives for better outreach to consumers.

16. Are there any infrastructure improvement projects funded by the state to make natural gas more accessible and affordable for residents living in remote areas?

Yes, there are. The state may allocate funds for infrastructure improvements such as extending pipelines to rural areas or providing grants or incentives for natural gas companies to expand their services to remote areas. Additionally, the state may also provide assistance for low-income households in these areas to make natural gas more affordable through programs like weatherization and energy efficiency measures.

17. Does Arkansas have any initiatives or partnerships with other states to share resources and best practices for promoting gas education?

Yes, Arkansas has several initiatives and partnerships with other states to share resources and best practices for promoting gas education.

One such initiative is the Gas Drilling Awareness Coalition, which was formed by a coalition of state agencies and educational institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. The coalition focuses on sharing information and resources related to responsible natural gas development and has hosted workshops and forums for educators to learn about best practices for teaching about natural gas.

Arkansas also has partnerships with neighboring states through the Southern States Energy Board (SSEB), an organization that promotes energy-related education and research among southern states. Through this partnership, Arkansas collaborates with other states to share resources, ideas, and best practices related to all forms of energy education.

Additionally, Arkansas is a member of the Interstate Oil & Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC), which works to promote responsible oil and gas development through education, regulatory coordination, and research. As a member of IOGCC, Arkansas has access to a network of resources for promoting gas education.

Lastly, the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture also partners with other universities in the region through organizations like the Southern Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (SAESD) to promote research and education related to natural gas production and utilization.

18. How does the state government involve and engage with local communities to increase awareness about the benefits of using natural gas, especially as it relates to environmental impact?

There are several ways in which the state government involves and engages with local communities to increase awareness about the benefits of using natural gas:

1. Public Education campaigns: The state government partners with local organizations, community groups, and industry leaders to organize public education campaigns about the benefits of natural gas. These campaigns may include workshops, seminars, public events, and media campaigns that aim to inform and educate individuals in the community.

2. Community outreach programs: The state government has community outreach programs that involve engaging with residents directly through neighborhood associations, town hall meetings, and other similar activities. Through these programs, information is disseminated about the benefits of using natural gas as a clean energy source.

3. Collaboration with schools: Schools play an important role in educating students about natural gas and its environmental impact. The state government collaborates with schools to promote environmental education and awareness among students through interactive activities such as science fairs, classroom discussions, and field trips to natural gas facilities.

4. Providing incentives: Some states offer incentives for individuals or organizations that switch to natural gas as their primary energy source. These incentives can include tax rebates or subsidies for converting vehicles or buildings to run on natural gas, making it more attractive for communities to adopt this energy source.

5. Working with local leaders: State governments work closely with local leaders such as mayors and city council members to promote the use of natural gas in their communities. By involving these leaders in decision-making processes and providing them with relevant information about the benefits of natural gas, they can help spread awareness among their constituents.

6. Environmental impact reports: State governments conduct environmental impact assessments before approving any new natural gas projects in local communities. These reports are made available to the public and help raise awareness by providing information on how these projects will affect the environment positively.

7. Engaging stakeholders: The state government also engages stakeholders such as environmental groups, industry representatives, and NGOs in discussions about the benefits of natural gas. This collaboration helps raise awareness among different groups and promotes informed decision-making.

8. Monitoring and reporting: Finally, state governments regularly monitor and report on the environmental impact of natural gas use in local communities. This information is made available to the public, increasing community awareness about the positive effects of using natural gas as a clean energy source.

19. Are there any educational events or workshops offered at a statewide level that focus on utilizing natural gas as a clean and reliable energy source in Arkansas?

Yes, the Arkansas Energy Office offers educational events and workshops on utilizing natural gas as a clean and reliable energy source at a statewide level. They regularly host workshops and seminars for businesses, homeowners, and policymakers to educate them about the benefits of natural gas and how to use it safely and efficiently in various applications. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission also offers training programs for natural gas industry professionals through their Natural Gas Training Center in Arkadelphia. Additionally, the Arkansas Oil & Gas Commission offers training courses for well operators on regulations, safety practices, and best management practices related to natural gas production. You can find information about upcoming events and workshops on the websites of these organizations.

20. What plans does the state have in place for continuing to improve access and education around natural gas resources in Arkansas in the coming years?

There are several plans in place to improve access and education around natural gas resources in Arkansas in the coming years. These include:

1. Expanding Natural Gas Infrastructure: The state of Arkansas, along with the help of private companies, is working to expand its natural gas infrastructure. This includes constructing new pipelines and building more natural gas storage facilities, which will improve access to this resource for both residential and commercial customers.

2. Encouraging Natural Gas Usage: The state is actively promoting the use of natural gas as a clean and affordable energy source. This includes offering tax incentives for businesses to switch to natural gas, as well as providing education and outreach programs to encourage residents to make the switch.

3. Investing in Renewable Natural Gas: Arkansas is also investing in renewable natural gas (RNG), which is produced from organic waste materials. This helps reduce emissions and dependence on traditional fossil fuels while providing an additional source of locally-produced energy.

4. Developing Educational Programs: Arkansas has several educational initiatives aimed at educating residents about the benefits and uses of natural gas. These include school programs that teach students about energy conservation and the importance of using natural gas responsibly.

5. Collaborating with Partners: The state works closely with industry partners, such as local utilities and energy companies, to improve access and education around natural gas resources. This collaboration helps ensure that all aspects of the state’s natural gas usage are managed efficiently.

6. Supporting Research: Arkansas also supports research into new technologies and innovations related to natural gas production, distribution, and usage. This helps to continuously improve the efficiency of utilizing this valuable resource.

Overall, these plans aim to increase accessibility, promote responsible usage, and raise awareness of the benefits of using natural gas as a sustainable energy source in Arkansas.