Research on Energy Resources

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Research on Energy Resources

3.5.4

Coal Fired Power Stations

Coal-fired power stations are responsible for the diffusion of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. The amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere must be carefully balanced to maintain the greenhouse effect, which is what keeps the surface of the earth warm enough to support life. Like all things in nature a change in one part of the environment can result in changes in another.

The effect of increased greenhouse gases in the environment is that the temperature of the atmosphere is expected to increase. It is predicted by some scientists that this temperature increase could result in the following:

  • The destruction of ecosystems such as the Great Barrier Reef.
  • A change in the world's weather patterns, resulting in an increase in both intensity and frequency of storms, cyclones, floods and droughts.
  • The melting of glaciers and polar ice.
  • Rising sea levels resulting in the permanent flooding of vast areas.
  • Economies may be affected by the destruction of crops and industry.

The effects of global warming is of such great concern that many nations agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Mining the coal that is to be used in the generation of electricity results in the destruction of the environment. Water systems can be threatened from the run-off as a result of the washing of coal.

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Hydroelectricity

Hydroelectric power plants are the most efficient electricity generators. They produce no greenhouse gases and are an ideal way to store electricity. However, building hydroelectric plants can have serious consequences for both the environment and people. However damming an area normally results in the flooding of the surroundings.

Solar power

Solar power generators produce no greenhouse gas emissions or other pollutants. Solar cells and solar thermal generators use the sun as their source of energy, however their manufacture can impact on the environment.

Mining the sand required for the manufacture of photovoltaic cells can ...

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