Our current sources of energy are not having a very positive effect on our surroundings. Some of these sources include coal, natural gas, oil, and nuclear energy. They are unable to be replaced once used; therefore, this is a significant problem for humanity because currently we are dependent on them providing most of our energy needs. for this reason it is preferable to convert to renewable energy sources.
There are many benefits of changing to renewable energy sources with minimal inferior disadvantages. Some of the benefits are that renewable energy: sources will not run out, it is reliable, environmentally friendly, can increase public health, creates lots of jobs, and more not listed.
The sources for this energy will not run out. This is because most of it is produced from the sun and the sun is expected to shine for at least another 4.5 to 5.5 billion more years. Because of this it is a renewable source which is the biggest and most important difference between renewables and fossil fuels. As stated before, it is reliable because the sun shines most everyday depending on where you live. Along with this, while fossil fuels are always subject to disputes and wars between countries, we can easily and peacefully gain control of renewable energy sources. Meaning, trade laws, territorial claims, markets’ turmoil, and political instabilities cannot impact the use of renewable energy sources. While they are not distributed equally, using a widespread and smart energy network it will become possible to use them as a reliable means of supplying energy.
This source is also naturally produced and so is considered clean and doesn’t have a major effect on the environment around it. Although the technologies can cause emissions, overall, minimum carbon and GHG will be emitted to the environment when using them. Compared with fossil fuels, the difference is significant. Therefore, the environmental issues such as global warming, climate change, and low air quality can and will be omitted if the move for renewable energy occurs. Reducing greenhouse emissions and other polluting substances will make it so we have healthier air and soil. This will improve public health, and subsequently, people will have happier lives. Having a healthier population will cause a significant reduction in the health budget people and governments should set aside each year.
This will also have beneficial influences on the economy. This is a new and stable job market that has recently emerged and can empower people in poor areas. With concerted effort and prudent investment, renewable jobs can reduce poverty all over the globe. It can also prevent people from emigrating from the countryside to urban areas. With a fair share for generating renewable electricity in their farms from a government offer will give incentive to stay in the countryside. In the UK numerous renewable jobs have already been created in the wake of governmental grants.
With such advantages listed, renewable energy sources should be used more. This creates many new possibilities and many good things will occur from such a switch.
Global Environmental Change 