The world relies on a variety of energy sources. In 2018, fossil fuels, such as oil, gas and coal, made up over 81 percent of the energy consumed. Renewables such as wind power, solar energy biomass, hydroelectricity and biomass account for 14 percent. Nuclear energy accounts for another 5 percent. Different countries use different energy sources to balance the needs of their economy and environmental concerns.
Energy is found in nature in a number of forms, including sunlight as well as wind, waves oceans and more. When harnessed and converted into more practical forms of energy, such as electricity or heat, these are referred to as primary sources. These energy sources become non-renewable sources of energy once they have been exhausted.
The environment is harmed by a variety of fossil fuels as well as some other non-renewable sources of energy. Mining oil, for instance can cause the destruction of our forest ecosystems of the planet. Fracking (hydraulic fracturing) can result in water pollution and earthquakes. Carbon dioxide is released when coal is burnt which contributes to global warming.
Fortunately, a lot of the most promising sources of energy are sustainable and renewable. Solar, wind and hydropower could, for example, generate electricity without having to dig up new sources.
Tidal and Wave Power are also renewable energy sources that are emerging. However, in order to be utilized at a large scale they must have effective distribution networks. This requires the use non-renewable energy sources to construct these networks. This means that these sources are not yet able to provide the bulk of our energy requirements. It’s vital to remember that the prices of renewable energy equipment have decreased dramatically in recent times and efficiency is growing.
