This document discusses the topic of energy and the author's perspective on using renewable technologies like solar and wind power aesthetically. The author argues that while our current energy infrastructure has negative environmental impacts, solar panels and wind turbines can provide energy in a more visually pleasing way. The author believes that increasing adoption of these renewable technologies on both large and small scales can help meet future energy demands in a sustainable manner.
The document discusses the debate around whether "going green" is worth the initial costs for homeowners. It outlines the history of energy efficiency projects starting in the 1970s. While green homes can be more expensive up front, they provide health and financial benefits over time through reduced energy bills and increased property values. However, many homeowners remain unaware of the long term benefits or are concerned about costs. The document argues that greater education is needed to help people understand that investing in green upgrades will save money in the long run and is better for both homeowners and the environment.
The document discusses renewable energy sources and provides an overview of solar energy as one of the mainstream technologies. It explains that solar energy comes from the sun's radiant light energy and can be used to produce heat, light, and electricity through solar power systems. There are two main methods - one uses solar thermal technology to heat water and produce steam to generate electricity, similar to fossil fuel plants, while the other uses large photovoltaic cell arrays to directly convert sunlight into electricity at high voltages and currents. Solar power is a renewable resource as the sun provides energy constantly. Home solar power systems commonly use photovoltaic panels to harness the sun's energy and convert it to electricity.
The document discusses the increasing dependence on computer technology and its future applications and impacts. It predicts that technology will continue penetrating more areas of life like communication, education, business, and relationships. While acknowledging benefits, it expresses concern that over-reliance on technology for communication could undermine people's ability to communicate face-to-face, which is important for humanity. The document concludes that while the growth of technology is inevitable, its impacts may not be entirely positive.
Green energy refers to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydro and geothermal that produce less environmental pollution than traditional fossil fuels. The development of green energy technologies will help reduce climate change impacts, improve air quality, and lessen dependence on fossil fuels. Solar power in particular is a major source of green energy, providing at least 50% of renewable energy. While the costs of green energy production may be higher currently, improved technologies and efficiency are expected to offset expenses over time.
This document discusses opportunities for implementing LEED and sustainability practices in West Virginia's building industry. It begins by outlining the LEED rating system categories. It then discusses relevant regulations and incentives at the state and federal level. Finally, it provides examples of opportunities in each LEED category to earn credits, such as protecting habitat, managing stormwater runoff, using regional materials, and innovating through projects like carbon sequestration and renewable energy. The document advocates applying sustainability principles to remake human presence in the natural world in a way that allows healthy communities and economic opportunity while restoring the environment.
Eii Overview & Energy Presentation.10.18.07dchampion
This presentation from 2007 was a consolidation of research I had done in the finance sector evaluating the convergence of global energy demand, geo-political conflict, diminishing domestic energy resources, climate change, and the pending need to focus on emission reduction and U.S. energy independence.
This document discusses LEED certification and sustainability in West Virginia. It provides information on the USGBC LEED rating system categories and potential credits. It also outlines relevant state regulations and incentives. Opportunities for pursuing LEED credits are presented, such as site selection, habitat restoration, stormwater management, construction waste diversion, use of regional materials, increased ventilation, and innovative carbon sequestration projects. The document emphasizes that sustainability involves remaking human presence to allow healthy communities while maintaining ecosystem integrity.
Michael P Totten A Climate For Life Mesh Talk Bioneer Los Angeles 12 09 09Michael P Totten
Positive vision of win-win-win actions to avoid climate catastrophe, end mass poverty, reduce species extinction, by using web-based social collaboration tools and collective intelligence actions.
The document discusses the debate around whether "going green" is worth the initial costs for homeowners. It outlines the history of energy efficiency projects starting in the 1970s. While green homes can be more expensive up front, they provide health and financial benefits over time through reduced energy bills and increased property values. However, many homeowners remain unaware of the long term benefits or are concerned about costs. The document argues that greater education is needed to help people understand that investing in green upgrades will save money in the long run and is better for both homeowners and the environment.
The document discusses renewable energy sources and provides an overview of solar energy as one of the mainstream technologies. It explains that solar energy comes from the sun's radiant light energy and can be used to produce heat, light, and electricity through solar power systems. There are two main methods - one uses solar thermal technology to heat water and produce steam to generate electricity, similar to fossil fuel plants, while the other uses large photovoltaic cell arrays to directly convert sunlight into electricity at high voltages and currents. Solar power is a renewable resource as the sun provides energy constantly. Home solar power systems commonly use photovoltaic panels to harness the sun's energy and convert it to electricity.
The document discusses the increasing dependence on computer technology and its future applications and impacts. It predicts that technology will continue penetrating more areas of life like communication, education, business, and relationships. While acknowledging benefits, it expresses concern that over-reliance on technology for communication could undermine people's ability to communicate face-to-face, which is important for humanity. The document concludes that while the growth of technology is inevitable, its impacts may not be entirely positive.
Green energy refers to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydro and geothermal that produce less environmental pollution than traditional fossil fuels. The development of green energy technologies will help reduce climate change impacts, improve air quality, and lessen dependence on fossil fuels. Solar power in particular is a major source of green energy, providing at least 50% of renewable energy. While the costs of green energy production may be higher currently, improved technologies and efficiency are expected to offset expenses over time.
This document discusses opportunities for implementing LEED and sustainability practices in West Virginia's building industry. It begins by outlining the LEED rating system categories. It then discusses relevant regulations and incentives at the state and federal level. Finally, it provides examples of opportunities in each LEED category to earn credits, such as protecting habitat, managing stormwater runoff, using regional materials, and innovating through projects like carbon sequestration and renewable energy. The document advocates applying sustainability principles to remake human presence in the natural world in a way that allows healthy communities and economic opportunity while restoring the environment.
Eii Overview & Energy Presentation.10.18.07dchampion
This presentation from 2007 was a consolidation of research I had done in the finance sector evaluating the convergence of global energy demand, geo-political conflict, diminishing domestic energy resources, climate change, and the pending need to focus on emission reduction and U.S. energy independence.
This document discusses LEED certification and sustainability in West Virginia. It provides information on the USGBC LEED rating system categories and potential credits. It also outlines relevant state regulations and incentives. Opportunities for pursuing LEED credits are presented, such as site selection, habitat restoration, stormwater management, construction waste diversion, use of regional materials, increased ventilation, and innovative carbon sequestration projects. The document emphasizes that sustainability involves remaking human presence to allow healthy communities while maintaining ecosystem integrity.
Michael P Totten A Climate For Life Mesh Talk Bioneer Los Angeles 12 09 09Michael P Totten
Positive vision of win-win-win actions to avoid climate catastrophe, end mass poverty, reduce species extinction, by using web-based social collaboration tools and collective intelligence actions.
The document summarizes the Sierra Club's activities in Wisconsin in promoting clean energy and fighting coal use. It discusses the Sierra Club's history, priorities around transitioning from coal to clean energy, and progress made in getting coal plants retired in Wisconsin. It also covers the potential for wind and solar energy in the state and debates around expanding offshore wind development on Lake Michigan.
The document discusses various challenges with different energy resources. Wind and solar power face challenges of not having enough strong winds or sunlight over long periods of time. Managing the turbines and panels would not be difficult. Alternative fuels made from foods may not provide enough power, and collecting the raw materials like corn silk can be challenging. Hydropower provides 10% of the nation's electricity but dams are costly and time-consuming to build. Non-renewable resources like coal, oil and gas will run out, so alternatives need to be found. Managing non-renewables involves controlling pollution emissions and environmental impacts while keeping costs low.
Assessment of the availability and utilization of household energy supplies i...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that assessed household energy supply and utilization patterns in Ife Central Local Government, Nigeria, with the aim of mitigating environmental impacts. The study found that the most commonly used energy sources were electricity (92.05%) and kerosene (72.85%), while solar was least used (1.99%). Factors like cost, availability, and indoor pollution most influenced energy source choices. The consumption of energy sources in buildings was found to impact 68.20% of respondents through smoke, with traces of smoke in houses and indoor pollution rated as the most significant impacts. The study concluded more environmentally friendly and sustainable energy sources should be made widely available to reduce environmental hazards.
The document discusses several concepts related to sustainability including the noosphere, Gaia consciousness, and the co-evolution of human ecosystems and the biosphere. It provides information on the Gaia theory, describing it as the view of Earth as a complex organism. It discusses weak and strong versions of the Gaia theory. It also discusses how human activities like increasing greenhouse gases can impact the climate and how believers in Gaia think the Earth will respond to problems. Finally, it provides examples of how rice husk and sugarcane husk can be used to remove pollutants from water.
This document discusses the role of energy in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It states that the SDGs cannot be achieved without conservation and sustainable use of energy, as each goal requires energy. It then summarizes how access to affordable, reliable energy is essential for reducing poverty and hunger, improving health and education, achieving gender equality, ensuring access to water, supporting economic growth, enabling industrialization, promoting sustainable cities and communities, addressing climate change, and fostering global partnerships. The document emphasizes that sustainable energy development and cooperation between all nations is needed to achieve the energy-related targets of the SDGs and create a cleaner, more equitable world.
This document discusses hydrogen as a clean energy solution that can replace fossil fuels. Key points:
1) Hydrogen produced from water using nanotechnology-enhanced electrolysis can be produced for around $0.50/kg, making it cost competitive with fossil fuels.
2) Hydrogen has a higher energy content per unit mass than fossil fuels and produces only water emissions when used. It can be used in fuel cells for transportation and power generation more efficiently than fossil fuels.
3) Storing hydrogen in water provides a safe and abundant way to store energy, as water covers over 70% of the earth's surface. Extracting hydrogen from water through electrolysis is more straightforward than extracting and transporting fossil fuels
Solar energy has many benefits over fossil fuels and other energy sources. It is a renewable resource that can help address environmental challenges like pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. Solar power generation produces no greenhouse gas emissions and helps combat global warming. The decentralized nature of solar also makes it suitable for powering individual homes and businesses as well as entire communities. Technological advancements have reduced the costs of solar energy, which is now competitive with conventional sources and can save consumers money over time. Investment in solar also creates many jobs and drives research and innovation.
The document is a 10 chapter ebook about powering a home with solar energy. It discusses converting sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic solar panels, the components of a solar electric or photovoltaic system, what sustainable living means, and provides tips on sizing and installing a solar power system. The ebook aims to educate homeowners on how solar power works and the benefits of powering a home with a solar photovoltaic array.
What is more valuable than Oil?
Yet is over 1000% Cheaper!
What could possibly be more valuable than oil right now?
I'll give you a hint: It is the largest natural energy resource on the planet, has no carbon content, it is of unlimited supply source of hydrogen- the same element that power our sun and here on earth kg/lb to kg/lb packs more energy than oil, coal and natural gas combined and burns 100% clean without any emissions. Still don’t know… it is our everyday ‘WATER’ …read on…
This document provides an overview of renewable resources and discusses various renewable energy sources in India. It defines renewable resources as substances that can be naturally replenished and discusses renewable sources like solar, wind, tidal, and biomass energy. It notes that renewable sources hold great potential but are currently underutilized in India. The document advocates increasing reliance on renewable sources and decreasing dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels to address energy demands in a sustainable way.
Sustainable and non sustainable energySaad Farooqi
This document discusses sustainable and non-sustainable energy sources. It defines sustainable energy as energy that meets current needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their needs. Sustainable energy technologies include hydroelectric, solar, wind, wave, geothermal, and tidal power. Non-sustainable or non-renewable sources like fossil fuels are in limited supply and produce pollution when used. The advantages and disadvantages of various renewable and non-renewable sources are presented, including their environmental and economic impacts.
This document discusses hope and inspiration for moving forward on climate change issues through community connections. It outlines concerns about climate change and encourages considering small actions individuals can take that fit their skills and interests, working with others, and finding joy in sustainable living. Potential actions are suggested for homes, transportation, food, population issues and more. Education is emphasized as key to addressing these challenges over the long term.
The document discusses various aspects of climate change mitigation. It describes strategies that could each prevent the emission of one billion tons of carbon dioxide per year by 2054, called "stabilization wedges." These include improving energy efficiency, expanding renewable energy like solar and wind power, increasing carbon capture and storage, and enhancing natural carbon sinks through activities like reforestation. The document emphasizes that a variety of approaches will be needed to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions over the coming decades in order to limit global temperature increases.
This document discusses sustainability challenges and solutions. It notes that there is 5 times more coal, oil, and gas in proven reserves than can safely be burned given a 2 degree temperature rise target. Renewable energy solutions are presented, including many countries and areas achieving high percentages of energy from renewables. Regenerative design principles are outlined that aim to have human presence enhance rather than diminish ecosystems. Examples of regenerative projects include biomimicry, permaculture, constructed wetlands, and urban agriculture.
Understanding Renewable Energy in KenyaGrace Mwaura
Presentation at the annual fundraising dinner of the Rotaract of Milimani in Nairobi. Proceeds from this dinner will go towards installing a biogas plant at a Childrens Home in one of the Nairobi slums. Totally humbled by the commitment of these young professionals,and sharing with them my insights tonight!
The document discusses the 1992 United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity which aims to conserve biological diversity, promote sustainable use of its components, and share benefits arising from genetic resources. It notes issues like deforestation, tailing ponds, and failing grades in various areas of energy consumption, emissions, waste, and development assistance. The document appears to be a presentation on the convention that includes notes, quotes, and references.
Energy Conservation: Lessons Save Money and Save the Environment ZY8
Notes
Energy conservation is important to reduce environmental impacts and prevent resource depletion. Excessive energy use from growing populations and industries has adversely affected the environment through pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Improving energy efficiency and switching to renewable sources can help address these issues. At the individual level, actions like using efficient appliances and lighting, proper insulation, and routine maintenance can significantly reduce energy use. Larger organizations and communities should also adopt energy saving practices in buildings, transportation, and through use of renewable resources. Overall, concerted efforts at all levels are needed to promote energy conservation.
The document discusses sustainability and climate change. It notes that since Rachel Carson's 1962 book "Silent Spring", there has been growing urgency to address issues like peak oil, ecological footprint, global warming, and bringing human activity back into global balance. The challenges of climate change could mean over 2°C warming this century, making Earth a very different planet, with sea level rise of over 25 meters potentially in coming centuries. Prompt action in the next decade is needed to avoid locking in infrastructure that prevents keeping warming under 1°C.
The document discusses energy issues in the United States and strategies to address them. It notes that the US heavily relies on non-renewable fossil fuels that cause pollution and climate change. Various energy sources like coal, oil and gas are examined in terms of their environmental impacts. The goals of securing energy supply, improving efficiency and reducing pollution are outlined. Actions at the federal, state and individual level to transition to cleaner energy and more sustainable practices are also reviewed.
The document discusses the roles of individuals in conserving energy sources. It explains that most current energy sources are non-renewable and will eventually deplete. As a member of a home owner's association, the author believes it is important to educate the community about the importance of energy conservation. The document outlines several renewable energy sources like geothermal, wind, solar, hydroelectric, and biomass energy. It also discusses some non-renewable sources like crude oil, coal, and natural gas, noting that while abundant, supplies of these will eventually be exhausted. The overall message is about the importance of sustainability and using renewable sources.
The document summarizes the Sierra Club's activities in Wisconsin in promoting clean energy and fighting coal use. It discusses the Sierra Club's history, priorities around transitioning from coal to clean energy, and progress made in getting coal plants retired in Wisconsin. It also covers the potential for wind and solar energy in the state and debates around expanding offshore wind development on Lake Michigan.
The document discusses various challenges with different energy resources. Wind and solar power face challenges of not having enough strong winds or sunlight over long periods of time. Managing the turbines and panels would not be difficult. Alternative fuels made from foods may not provide enough power, and collecting the raw materials like corn silk can be challenging. Hydropower provides 10% of the nation's electricity but dams are costly and time-consuming to build. Non-renewable resources like coal, oil and gas will run out, so alternatives need to be found. Managing non-renewables involves controlling pollution emissions and environmental impacts while keeping costs low.
Assessment of the availability and utilization of household energy supplies i...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that assessed household energy supply and utilization patterns in Ife Central Local Government, Nigeria, with the aim of mitigating environmental impacts. The study found that the most commonly used energy sources were electricity (92.05%) and kerosene (72.85%), while solar was least used (1.99%). Factors like cost, availability, and indoor pollution most influenced energy source choices. The consumption of energy sources in buildings was found to impact 68.20% of respondents through smoke, with traces of smoke in houses and indoor pollution rated as the most significant impacts. The study concluded more environmentally friendly and sustainable energy sources should be made widely available to reduce environmental hazards.
The document discusses several concepts related to sustainability including the noosphere, Gaia consciousness, and the co-evolution of human ecosystems and the biosphere. It provides information on the Gaia theory, describing it as the view of Earth as a complex organism. It discusses weak and strong versions of the Gaia theory. It also discusses how human activities like increasing greenhouse gases can impact the climate and how believers in Gaia think the Earth will respond to problems. Finally, it provides examples of how rice husk and sugarcane husk can be used to remove pollutants from water.
This document discusses the role of energy in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It states that the SDGs cannot be achieved without conservation and sustainable use of energy, as each goal requires energy. It then summarizes how access to affordable, reliable energy is essential for reducing poverty and hunger, improving health and education, achieving gender equality, ensuring access to water, supporting economic growth, enabling industrialization, promoting sustainable cities and communities, addressing climate change, and fostering global partnerships. The document emphasizes that sustainable energy development and cooperation between all nations is needed to achieve the energy-related targets of the SDGs and create a cleaner, more equitable world.
This document discusses hydrogen as a clean energy solution that can replace fossil fuels. Key points:
1) Hydrogen produced from water using nanotechnology-enhanced electrolysis can be produced for around $0.50/kg, making it cost competitive with fossil fuels.
2) Hydrogen has a higher energy content per unit mass than fossil fuels and produces only water emissions when used. It can be used in fuel cells for transportation and power generation more efficiently than fossil fuels.
3) Storing hydrogen in water provides a safe and abundant way to store energy, as water covers over 70% of the earth's surface. Extracting hydrogen from water through electrolysis is more straightforward than extracting and transporting fossil fuels
Solar energy has many benefits over fossil fuels and other energy sources. It is a renewable resource that can help address environmental challenges like pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. Solar power generation produces no greenhouse gas emissions and helps combat global warming. The decentralized nature of solar also makes it suitable for powering individual homes and businesses as well as entire communities. Technological advancements have reduced the costs of solar energy, which is now competitive with conventional sources and can save consumers money over time. Investment in solar also creates many jobs and drives research and innovation.
The document is a 10 chapter ebook about powering a home with solar energy. It discusses converting sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic solar panels, the components of a solar electric or photovoltaic system, what sustainable living means, and provides tips on sizing and installing a solar power system. The ebook aims to educate homeowners on how solar power works and the benefits of powering a home with a solar photovoltaic array.
What is more valuable than Oil?
Yet is over 1000% Cheaper!
What could possibly be more valuable than oil right now?
I'll give you a hint: It is the largest natural energy resource on the planet, has no carbon content, it is of unlimited supply source of hydrogen- the same element that power our sun and here on earth kg/lb to kg/lb packs more energy than oil, coal and natural gas combined and burns 100% clean without any emissions. Still don’t know… it is our everyday ‘WATER’ …read on…
This document provides an overview of renewable resources and discusses various renewable energy sources in India. It defines renewable resources as substances that can be naturally replenished and discusses renewable sources like solar, wind, tidal, and biomass energy. It notes that renewable sources hold great potential but are currently underutilized in India. The document advocates increasing reliance on renewable sources and decreasing dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels to address energy demands in a sustainable way.
Sustainable and non sustainable energySaad Farooqi
This document discusses sustainable and non-sustainable energy sources. It defines sustainable energy as energy that meets current needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their needs. Sustainable energy technologies include hydroelectric, solar, wind, wave, geothermal, and tidal power. Non-sustainable or non-renewable sources like fossil fuels are in limited supply and produce pollution when used. The advantages and disadvantages of various renewable and non-renewable sources are presented, including their environmental and economic impacts.
This document discusses hope and inspiration for moving forward on climate change issues through community connections. It outlines concerns about climate change and encourages considering small actions individuals can take that fit their skills and interests, working with others, and finding joy in sustainable living. Potential actions are suggested for homes, transportation, food, population issues and more. Education is emphasized as key to addressing these challenges over the long term.
The document discusses various aspects of climate change mitigation. It describes strategies that could each prevent the emission of one billion tons of carbon dioxide per year by 2054, called "stabilization wedges." These include improving energy efficiency, expanding renewable energy like solar and wind power, increasing carbon capture and storage, and enhancing natural carbon sinks through activities like reforestation. The document emphasizes that a variety of approaches will be needed to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions over the coming decades in order to limit global temperature increases.
This document discusses sustainability challenges and solutions. It notes that there is 5 times more coal, oil, and gas in proven reserves than can safely be burned given a 2 degree temperature rise target. Renewable energy solutions are presented, including many countries and areas achieving high percentages of energy from renewables. Regenerative design principles are outlined that aim to have human presence enhance rather than diminish ecosystems. Examples of regenerative projects include biomimicry, permaculture, constructed wetlands, and urban agriculture.
Understanding Renewable Energy in KenyaGrace Mwaura
Presentation at the annual fundraising dinner of the Rotaract of Milimani in Nairobi. Proceeds from this dinner will go towards installing a biogas plant at a Childrens Home in one of the Nairobi slums. Totally humbled by the commitment of these young professionals,and sharing with them my insights tonight!
The document discusses the 1992 United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity which aims to conserve biological diversity, promote sustainable use of its components, and share benefits arising from genetic resources. It notes issues like deforestation, tailing ponds, and failing grades in various areas of energy consumption, emissions, waste, and development assistance. The document appears to be a presentation on the convention that includes notes, quotes, and references.
Energy Conservation: Lessons Save Money and Save the Environment ZY8
Notes
Energy conservation is important to reduce environmental impacts and prevent resource depletion. Excessive energy use from growing populations and industries has adversely affected the environment through pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Improving energy efficiency and switching to renewable sources can help address these issues. At the individual level, actions like using efficient appliances and lighting, proper insulation, and routine maintenance can significantly reduce energy use. Larger organizations and communities should also adopt energy saving practices in buildings, transportation, and through use of renewable resources. Overall, concerted efforts at all levels are needed to promote energy conservation.
The document discusses sustainability and climate change. It notes that since Rachel Carson's 1962 book "Silent Spring", there has been growing urgency to address issues like peak oil, ecological footprint, global warming, and bringing human activity back into global balance. The challenges of climate change could mean over 2°C warming this century, making Earth a very different planet, with sea level rise of over 25 meters potentially in coming centuries. Prompt action in the next decade is needed to avoid locking in infrastructure that prevents keeping warming under 1°C.
The document discusses energy issues in the United States and strategies to address them. It notes that the US heavily relies on non-renewable fossil fuels that cause pollution and climate change. Various energy sources like coal, oil and gas are examined in terms of their environmental impacts. The goals of securing energy supply, improving efficiency and reducing pollution are outlined. Actions at the federal, state and individual level to transition to cleaner energy and more sustainable practices are also reviewed.
The document discusses the roles of individuals in conserving energy sources. It explains that most current energy sources are non-renewable and will eventually deplete. As a member of a home owner's association, the author believes it is important to educate the community about the importance of energy conservation. The document outlines several renewable energy sources like geothermal, wind, solar, hydroelectric, and biomass energy. It also discusses some non-renewable sources like crude oil, coal, and natural gas, noting that while abundant, supplies of these will eventually be exhausted. The overall message is about the importance of sustainability and using renewable sources.
1. Topic Reflection on Energy
By Colin Henning
9/29/10
Don’t Let it Come to This
2. Topic Reflection on Energy
By Colin Henning
9/29/10
Energy as we have seen it is a complicated, and quite expansive topic of discussion.
Everyone from world leaders to the poorest of the poor will be affected by our future energy
policies and mode of conservation. Currently our nation is looking into renewable sources of
energy for the future. As we learned in discussion, our energy core, or infrastructure for the year
2050 is being developed and decided upon today. That is quite a lot of pressure for decision-
makers all around the world. This is why I am going to share my perspective on technology and
energy in regards to the philosophical perspective of aesthetics.
What we have started discussing is energy, and what sort of role the technology that
incorporates this energy has in store for our future. Coal plants, miles of train cars, nuclear
power plants, smoke billowing into the sky from the tops of cities, and literally countless miles
of power lines cover up this beautiful earth. All of these things we need to produce and transfer
energy to support today’s lifestyle, and that is just a small example of the destruction we have
brought across America’s landscape. Everything we as humans make, create, or do affects this
naturally abundant world we live on. Take the rainforests for example, “Each hour the
equivalent of 35-50 acres of rainforest are destroyed” (Save The Rainforest). This is not going to
turn into an anti-logging paper by any means, but the point being made here is that this world is
changing; we are changing it. Do you ever wonder what America looked like when Lewis and
Clark explored it over two hundred years ago? Our country was full of vast forests, healthy
wildlife and streams full of fish, not motor oil and fast food junk. Our children deserve the right
to see a beautiful earth, who are we to deny the future generations what we were given as a gift
from our predecessors?
Looking forward now, it is a general consensus that one day we will run out of fossil
fuels. Our major dependency is on coal and oil. In order to shift the processes of our
infrastructure, we must look for less destructive ways to obtain renewable energy to consume.
Professionals in many fields have been looking into new technologies for nuclear, wind, solar,
and hydropower. The two renewable technologies that I believe need further attention are wind
3. Topic Reflection on Energy
By Colin Henning
9/29/10
and solar power. Gathering of energy with these two technologies is not the issue. We need to
have higher total terawatt outputs so that these more visually appealing renewable sources can
become more primary energy sources for us in the future. In order to have higher outputs we
need to think in terms of quantity. More solar panels in available avenues would be a great place
to start. Rebates for having solar panels on your home or business in California would be a great
place to start. Individuals that can feed any amount of energy back into the grid instead of taking
from it will help with our future energy demands.
To negate a popular criticism about solar panels, studies have shown that they in fact do
work during the winter. In chilly Wisconsin for example the winter the air is clearer, and allows
more sun to fall directly unto the panels. This does not even account for the amount of reflective
light that bounces off the white snow and helps to illuminate your house while allowing even
more light to fall unto the panels.
Experts suggest that our electricity shortage is continually getting worse. “By the year
2020 the amount of electricity the United States uses is expected to double” (Moffat, Charles).
This estimate is due primarily to expected population growth along with the growing percentage
of people that use gaming and computer technologies everyday. What I like most about the wind
and solar panel technologies is that they enable everybody to do their part, like recycling. You
do not need to be a large corporate owner or government affiliate to get involved with this sort of
renewable technology. I am not suggesting to put up a windmill in your backyard here in
Menomonie, but solar panels can be put on nearly every home or school (without much notice
because many shingled homes are black already), and you can lobby for windmills to be brought
into your county or district in areas where they qualify.
There have been concerns about the eye appeal of windmills, and other negative factors
like noise and the death of seagulls from the blades. Personally I have visited a few windmill
farms and they are quiet even standing right up next to them at ground level. Europe already has
implemented working wind farms in the water where coastal winds keep the turbines pumping at
great speeds, all while keeping the beautiful landscape undamaged. In regards to the death of the
seagulls, if these individuals are so worried about the wildlife they too should be pushing for
renewable energy because the amount of wildlife that is killed each year from polluted water
sources alone is astronomical. MarineBio highlights a graph of pesticide use for the last forty
4. Topic Reflection on Energy
By Colin Henning
9/29/10
years. There is a correlation made between the thousands of tons of pesticide runoff into natural
water sources and the biomagnification of pesticides in the food chain (Davis, Jay).
Getting back to the perspective of keeping this world bright in the future (no pun
intended), I think it is appropriate to view my history to convey why I feel the way I do.
Originally I wanted to write this reflection on ethics, which seemed like an easier task but what
really is important to me, is the natural beauty that can have such an affect on people’s lives and
everyday perspective. Have you ever noticed that you feel great on a nice warm sunny day?
Psychologists have performed many studies on the link between our emotions and our
environment, and I believe them to be true. I love the outdoors. I was born and raised on a farm
in rural Wisconsin, and have loved every minute of it. With the sun, green grass and woods to
play in, I was the happiest boy around. You can drive almost anywhere around here and find a
place where nature truly astounds you. We are blessed to live in a beautiful place like
Wisconsin, and I feel that is what drives me outdoors when I have free time to enjoy some of my
favorite hobbies. Photography has been a passion of mine for a few years now, and part of my
mission with taking pictures is capturing the beauty of our world so others can experience it as
well. That brings us full circle to why we need to be ethically and aesthetically responsible to
solving our energy concerns for the future. What, where, and how we build will shape our world
for the years to come. This cannot be taken lightly, and that is why I want to stress my topic of
aesthetic use of our emerging technologies.
I think it is a shame when I see people litter, and in a way I want to compare our continued
use of fossil fuels to littering. There is so much waste, that with all of our fancy technologies
emerging everyday I am pushing for our leaders to continue the trend of “Green” thinking and
hope every bit of our knowledge as humans is put into solving this issue of lasting energy
resources. Renewable energy is even becoming an art form in many parts of our country. There
are designers working with scientists and engineers to establish more aesthetic, innovative
structures to allow for higher efficiency energy production and transfer. I want to see this world
work together, put their differences aside, and I just pray I never see this world look anything
like something I saw in Terminator.
To close I would like to leave with this quote from Save The Rainforest,
5. Topic Reflection on Energy
By Colin Henning
9/29/10
“If you are thinking 1 year ahead, sow seeds
If you are thinking 10 years ahead, plant a tree
If you are thinking 100 years ahead, educate the people.”
Bibliography
Davis, Jay. "Wildlife and Pollution." Marine Biology, Biodiversity and Ocean Conservation.
Marine Biology, n.d. Web. 29 Sept. 2010.
<http://marinebio.org/Oceans/Conservation/Moyle/ch11.asp>.
Moffat, Charles. "The Solar Powered Myth." The Environmental eZine. N.p., Dec. 2007. Web.
29 Sept. 2010. <http://www.lilith-ezine.com/articles/environmental/The-Solar-Powered-
Myth.html>.
Save The Rainforest, Rainforest Facts. n.d. EbscoHost. Web. 29 Sept. 2010.
<http://www.savetherainforest.org/>.