Alternative Energy

Environmental awareness has lead to a renewed interest and investigation of our world’s energy sources. The mining and burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, pollutes the land, air, and water of our planet. Coal burning contributes to global warming by releasing carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere and increasing greenhouse gases. Sulfur and nitrogen oxide are also produced, leading to smog and acid rain. Nuclear power as an energy source contributes very little to air pollution and global warming, however, nuclear waste facilities and byproducts must be closely monitored or environmental catastrophes could result.

In the United States, 90% of vehicle fuel and 40% percent of total energy consumption is met by oil. The Middle East accounts for approximately 80% of the world’s oil reserves. Products from oil fuel our airplanes, cars, and trucks. Petroleum products also heat our homes and help us create things like medicines and plastics. Although oil fuels the modern world, it is not an infinite resource. Some predictions state there is as little as 40 years of reserves left.

The use of oil as an energy source has significant environmental impacts. As with coal and natural gas, burning oil releases CO2, which contributes to global warming. Activities such as geologic exploration, drilling, and piping oil can lead to pollution, accidental catastrophes, and social impacts. Because of these environmental concerns, and because oil is a finite resource, alternative sources of energy need to be brought into the mainstream as soon as possible. Alternative energy sources do not require the burning of fossil fuels or nuclear power.

	Non-renewable energy sources			Alternative renewable energy sources
		1. Oil (petroleum) 2. Natural gas 3. Coal 4. Uranium (nuclear)			1. Solar 2. Wind 3. Geothermal 4. Biomass 5. Hydropower (Dams) 6. Ocean (Tide turbines) 7. Hydrogen

 
The U.S. Department of Energy hopes that hydrogen will produce ten percent of our energy by 2030.

What can you do to help with energy consumption?

1. Learn and educate – Read as much as you can about energy issues and alternative energy sources. Join a group to help promote energy efficiency and educate others.

2. Automobiles – Reduce our dependence on oil. Buy a more environmentally friendly vehicle and reduce your driving through carpooling or public transportation.

3. Energy efficiency – Turn lights off and use energy efficient appliances and light bulbs. Investigate alternative renewable energy sources you could implement at home.

4. Recycle – Learn how you can recycle in your neighborhood and find ways to reduce waste.

5. Be heard! – Let your legislators know you want them to develop an energy policy that moves away from fossil fuels. Contact corporations and let them know you want them to produce safe, ecological products.