The Difference Between Reneil Fuels And Renewable Energy

Imagine a world without electricity. There would be no lights, no internet, and no efficient communication systems. Electricity is a type of energy, and energy is a vital aspect of today’s industry and society. There are many ways in which energy is produced, and they are typically divided into two major categories: fossil fuels and renewable energies. The term “fossil fuels” refers to nonrenewable resources such as coal, oil, and natural gas that formed over millions of years from the breakdown of fossils. On the other hand, “renewable energies” refers to energy sources that are constantly and readily available, such as wind, solar, and hydro power. Both means of obtaining energy are related in many aspects, yet they contrast each other as

Industry and society today are extremely dependent on fossil fuels. The United States uses fossil fuels to fulfill “85 percent of [its] energy supply” (“The High Cost”). In fact, many countries around the world rely heavily on fossil fuels for energy. Coal alone accounts for 38% of the world’s electricity generation, and oil and natural gas account for 16% and 9% respectively (Sims, Rogner, and Gregory). Clearly fossil fuels dominate the energy market, however this fact is changing. Renewable energy sources are on the rise. According to Ralph Sims, Hans-Holger Rogner, and Ken Gregory, “Hydropower is expected to grow by around 60% … wind by 21% … and solar photovoltaics by 30%” each year (Sims, Rogner, and Gregory). Developing technologies such as solar and wind power are starting to grow in popularity when compared to non-renewable energies, like fossil fuels. These energy sources are sparking both public and industrial interests. In fact, businesses have started to “integrate renewable resources into their portfolios at greater and greater rates” (Miser). Said businesses are noticing the need for alternative fuels. Additionally, there is a shift in the way the public wants to utilize energy. This is due to growing awareness of environmental issues caused by the burning of fossil

In order to utilize the energy stored in resources such as oil and coal, they must first be burned. This process releases many dangerous toxins like carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. According to the United States Department of Energy, in 2008 North America emitted 1.70 billion tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, and this amount is only “slightly less than the 2005 all-time high” (Boden, Marland, and Andres). Even more concerning, global emissions from fossil fuels total more than 7.7 billion tons each year; a number which has been increasing steadily over recent decades (Sims, Rogner, and Gregory). These gas emissions lead to increased air and water pollution, which in turn causes both habitat destruction and increased global warming. Though fossil fuels are malignant to the health of the earth, renewable energy sources like hydropower and wind power, typically are not harmful to the environment. Alternative energy sources produce little to no carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases (Spellman). This limits the growing problems of global warming and acid rain, both of which damage the earth. Moreover, renewable resources are readily available. For example, wind turbines use air currents and hydroelectric dams use natural water flow to produce electricity. Instead of destroying the earth, alternative fuels utilize aspects of nature that will be accessible for centuries to come.