Renewable energy sources
There are many sources of renewable energy available, including water, wind and biomass. All these sources are unlimited and free. Renewable energy is vital in combating climate changes because fossil fuels contribute a lot to the greenhouse gases that cause global warming.
Biomass is an alternative form of renewable energy. This involves converting organic materials (wood, grasses) into electricity. This process is more efficient and cleaner than burning fossil fuels. Additionally, biomass generates power at a lower price than fossil fuels. Because it doesn't emit carbon dioxide into our atmosphere, biomass is a common source for renewable energy. This contributes to climate change and global warming.
Renewable energy sources' environmental impacts
Renewable energy has many environmental benefits, both for the environment and people. Electricity generation that is dominated by fossil fuels produces huge amounts of carbon dioxide. Electricity generation is responsible for 40% of America's greenhouse gas-related energy emissions. China's electricity generated just more than two billion tons of carbon dioxide in 2007. Additional to CO2, fossil-fuel burning also emits NOx and other air pollutants. These pollutants cause air pollution and are extremely toxic. They also increase water demand.
Renewable energy sources reduce pollution and emissions, but they also boost the economy, create employment, and help to alleviate poverty. Half of the world's energy demand will come from renewable energy by 2050. This is a huge number and represents more than 140 times the current energy consumption worldwide. Germany's successful renewable energy industry has seen employment rises of up 55% since 2004.
Public opinion on renewable energy sources
A new survey finds that public opinion on renewable energy sources is generally supportive, with most Americans favoring them over fossil fuels. But opinions differ depending on which party you are. Democrats tend to favor regulation of renewable energy development. Republicans, however, prefer free markets to drive this transition. The public opinion regarding renewable energy sources is broad regardless of party. It shows that the majority support it as an alternative to fossil fuels.
According to the study, 72 percent of respondents viewed renewable energy sources positively and 78 percent regarded them as unfavorable. The number of respondents who do not know much about renewable energy sources was significantly higher than for oil and nuclear.