Sources of renewable power
There are many renewable energy sources. These include the sun, wind energy, biomass energy, geothermal power, water and even geothermal. These sources of renewable energy are all free and unlimited. Renewable energy is important in combating climate change because fossil fuels are a major contributor to greenhouse gases, which are causing the global warming we are currently experiencing.
Biomass is an alternative form of renewable energy. This involves converting organic materials (wood, grasses) into electricity. This process is faster and more efficient than using fossil fuels. In addition, biomass produces power at lower cost than fossil fuels. 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
There are numerous environmental benefits that renewable energy can bring to the world and for us all. Massive carbon dioxide emissions are caused by fossil fuel-dominated electricity production. The United States' electricity generation account for 40% of its energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. China's electricity production contributed just over two billion tonnes of CO2 emissions to the nation in 2007. In addition to CO2, fossil-fuel combustion also produces other air pollutants such as NOx and sulfur dioxide. These pollutants contribute to air pollution and are highly toxic. They also cause water resource problems.
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 large number and more than 140 times greater than the world's current energy consumption. Germany's renewable energy industry is an example of a success story, with employment increases of up to 55% since 2004.
Public opinion regarding renewable energy sources
New research shows that Americans are generally more supportive of renewable energy sources than they are fossil fuels. There are differences in opinions depending on party. Democrats generally support government regulation to promote renewable energy development, while Republicans prefer the free market to drive the transition. No matter what party you are, the majority of people support renewable energy to offset fossil fuels.
The study revealed that 72 percent of national respondents considered renewable energy sources favorable, and 78 percent considered them unfavorable. The percentage of respondents not knowing much about renewable sources was significantly higher that the proportions for oil and nucleus.