THE ROLE OF RENEMWABLE RESOURCES IN REDUCING CARBON EMISSION

The use of renewable energy is essential for cutting carbon emissions. Numerous studies have shown that renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, lower CO2 emissions because their output replaces that of fossil fuels, according to a report by the World Resources Institute.

For instance, according to an NREL study, producing 35% of the electricity in the western United States through solar and wind power would cut CO2 emissions by 25–45%.

 

When compared to coal, oil, or gas, renewable energy sources like wind and solar are typically less expensive, readily available, and release little to no greenhouse gas emissions.

 

However, the low capacity and relatively high capital costs of wind and solar energy systems reduce their efficiency.

That being said, over 90% of the required reductions in energy-related carbon emissions can be achieved through the combination of energy efficiency and renewable energy, reinforced by significant electrification.

 

Thus, lowering carbon emissions and lessening the effects of climate change require a switch to renewable energy.

 

Among the most popular categories of renewable energy sources are:

Solar energy: This energy source uses a combined chemical and physical process known as the photovoltaic effect to absorb sunlight on solar panels and produce electricity.

With considerable capacity added in recent years, solar power is one of the renewable energy sources with the fastest rate of growth.

Wind energy: Wind turbines turn the kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical power, which powers generators to produce electricity. One important renewable energy source is wind power, which had more than 563 GW of installed capacity worldwide in 2018.

Hydro energy: This comprises the production of tidal energy as well as conventional hydroelectric dams. Hydroelectric dams regulate the flow of water, which powers turbines to produce energy. The rising and falling ocean tides are harnessed by tidal energy to produce electricity.

Geothermal energy: This renewable energy source produces electricity by harnessing heat from the Earth's core. In addition to producing electricity, geothermal energy can be used for heating and cooling systems.

Using organic materials, like plants and wood, as a fuel source to create electricity is known as biomass energy. Although biomass energy is a sustainable and renewable energy source, it is crucial to make sure the biomass is produced and harvested ethically.

There are several benefits to using renewable energy, such as:

Reduced carbon emissions and cleaner air: Since renewable energy sources produce little to no greenhouse gases, they help to lessen the effects of climate change and reduce air pollution.

Reduced long-term costs: Although the initial costs of renewable energy systems are higher, they can result in significant long-term savings because they require less fuel and maintenance.

Energy security and independence: The nation's power grid is more dependable, secure, and resilient when it uses renewable energy sources since they are naturally replenished and never run out.

Creation of jobs: The renewable energy sector employs a sizable workforce, and according to the Bureau of Statistics, jobs involving wind turbine technicians and solar panel installers will grow at some of the fastest rates.

Decreased reliance on foreign energy sources: Increasing energy independence and lowering reliance on imported fuels are two benefits of using renewable energy sources.

Environmental advantages: Renewable energy sources can reduce waste and have a number of environmental advantages, such as cleaner air and water.

Energy supply diversification: Using renewable energy sources lessens reliance on a single energy source and diversifies the energy supply.

In conclusion renewable resources has a good impact of our ecosystem. It also creates jobs and helps in energy security.

 

REFERENCE

1. [PDF] The Role of Renewable Energy in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Buildup.
2.  Setting the Record Straight About Renewable Energy | World Resources Institute
3.   Renewable energy – powering a safer future | United Nations
4.     Renewable Energy | Types, Forms & Sources | EDF
5.    Benefits of Renewable Energy Use | Union of Concerned Scientists