Renewable energy sources
Renewable energy can come from many sources, including sunlight, wind, geothermal energy and biomass. All these sources are unlimited and free. Renewable energy can be a key component in fighting climate changes. This is because fossil fuels have a significant contribution to greenhouse gasses, which are causing the current warming.
Biomass can be described as a form renewable energy. It involves the conversion of organic materials such as wood, grasses, or other plants into electricity. This process is faster and more efficient than using fossil fuels. Furthermore, biomass is more affordable than fossil fuels and produces more power. Biomass is a common source of renewable energy because it does not emit carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming and climate change.
Renewable energy sources' environmental impacts
The benefits of using renewable energy sources are numerous for both the planet and our environment. The huge carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel-dominated electricity generation are a result of large amounts of fossil fuel-derived electricity. In the United States, electricity generation accounts for 40 percent of the nation's energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. China's electricity generated just more than two billion tons of carbon dioxide in 2007. Other than CO2, fossil fuel combustion can also produce other pollutants like NOx and sulfur dioxide. These pollutants are extremely toxic and contribute to air pollution. They also exert pressure on water resources.
Renewable energy sources can reduce emissions and pollution as well as increase the economy, create new jobs, and lower poverty. Half of the world's energy demand will come from renewable energy by 2050. This is a massive number that represents more 140 times the world's energy consumption. Germany's renewable power industry is a shining example of success, with employment increasing by up to 55% every year since 2004.
Public opinion on renewable energies
New research shows that Americans are generally more supportive of renewable energy sources than they are fossil fuels. But, opinions can vary from one party to the next. While Democrats favor government regulation of renewable energy development, Republicans prefer the free-market to drive the transition. Public opinion on renewable energy sources varies by party. However, it is clear that most people support the use of renewable energy as an alternative to fossil fuels.
The survey found that 72 per cent of respondents in the country viewed renewable energy as favorable, while 78 per cent considered them to be unfavorable. The proportion of those who didn't know much about renewable energies was significantly greater than that for nuclear and oil.