Energy Conservation: Mitigation Strategies

Energy Conservation:

Mitigation Strategies and Solutions

SCI 275

Jennifer Greene

May 20, 2012

Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas are nonrenewable sources of energy. These fossil fuels, when burned, have high emissions, which leads to pollution, a main contributor to global warming. As Americans, we consume large amounts of the world's energy every day. We can make a difference in the world by conserving energy in our daily lives. [1] Due to convenience and the low prices of fossil fuels, we have taken advantage of nonrenewable resources, without their considering the consequences. We are realizing slowly, that these resources will not be around for future generations if we are not careful. By encouraging environmental change, we can make a difference and preserve resources for the future.

There are five renewable sources of energy: hydropower, solar, wind, geothermal, and biomass. These sources of energy are attainable, making them renewable energy for human consumption.

Replenishing nonrenewable resources can take centuries because it cannot be replaced as fast as it is consumed. Fossil fuels are examples of resources that cannot redevelop in a substantial amount of time. Minerals are also a nonrenewable resource and if we continue to mine, we will eventually exhaust the supply of minerals available. The development of eco-efficiency, the recognition of environmental preservation, attempts to change or update methods previously set to preserve the environment.

My mitigation plan incorporates the idea that environmental preservation can be achieved at social, political, and economic levels. Programs, systems, and activities can be funded by government to progress in a vast nature and play a role in reducing the environmental footprint set by humanity. Approximately 70 percent of emissions of methane are now related to human activities; this impact of gas released disrupts animals and plants in the...