(1a) Explain the classification of the selected energy resources - coal, terms of social acceptance, economic costs and environmental impacts.

Whereas Nuclear Power may be ‘greener’ or eco-friendly in comparison to fossil fuels such as coal meaning it has a “low environmental impact”, but the occurrence of low social acceptability stops many countries from adopting the concept. People dislike Nuclear Power as they are aware of the disposable waste it produces, which takes thousands of years to eliminate. Additionally, nuclear disasters in countries like Japan have allowed the world to visualise the dangerous implications and consequences of Nuclear Power which prevent people supporting the cause. To add to this, the adoption of Nuclear power can lead to the adoption of its nemesis- nuclear weapons. The threat of unstable regimes having such power causes many people to not support the cause. It is also high in economic coasts, which sees both people and governments not willing to invest heavily invest in a project that threatens the lives of civilians.

Renewable energy was previously a high contributor towards producing energy, however after the industrial revolution the likes of fossil fuels emerged as the new energy power. Therefore, renewable energy sources like wind power towards 4%  of global energy production. Though such energy is sustainable and ideal to adapt in a world short of resources, it has a low rate of social acceptance. Renewable energy sources may have low environmental impacts, but such resources are proved to be expensive with low energy densities. Also, the idea wind power infrastructure causes noise pollution for local residents and ruins landscapes explains the reason why many people are not drawn towards it.