The Importance of Transitioning from Fossil Fuels to Renewable Energy Sources for a Sustainable Future

Fossil fuels

• The combustion of fossil fuels is a chemical reaction between the fuel and oxygen that yields carbon dioxide and water and releases heat and light energy (fuel + O2 -> CO2 + H2O + heat & light)• Fossil fuels supply most of our commercial energy (~80%)• We use a variety of methods to extract fossil fuels from the Earth- EX: mining, drilling, fracking (horizontal drilling)

Fossil fuels are a non-renewable and finite source of energy derived from the remains of plants and animals that lived millions of years ago. They include coal, oil, and natural gas, which are formed from the decomposed organic matter that was buried deep within the Earth’s crust and subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years.

Fossil fuels are the primary source of energy used by many countries around the world to power homes, businesses, and industries. They provide high energy-density and are relatively cheap and easy to extract, transport and store, making them an attractive option for energy production.

However, the use of fossil fuels come with negative impacts on the environment and human health. Burning fossil fuels releases large amounts of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming, climate change and air pollution. The extraction and transportation of fossil fuels can also have significant environmental impacts, such as oil spills, habitat destruction and water pollution.

To address these negative impacts, there is a growing need for a transition to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy. The use of renewable energy sources can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect the environment, and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

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