Energy policy and global warming: Difference between revisions
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== The Problems with Wind and Solar Alone == | == The Problems with Wind and Solar Alone == | ||
*need for 100% fossil fuel backup - Fig.4 | |||
*need for 100% fossil fuel backup | *use of land and mineral resources - Fig.5 | ||
== The Need for Immediate Action == | == The Need for Immediate Action == |
Revision as of 21:23, 29 May 2022
Climate scientists tell us that our consumption of fossil fuels is raising atmospheric CO2 levels, causing rapid global warming, and risking catastrophic climate change. Most people now accept these conclusions, but there is still debate over whether the replacement for fossil fuels should include nuclear power. Many believe that nuclear power cannot be made safe and clean.[1] Others believe that an energy policy that does not include nuclear is unrealistic. This article is a brief review of the options for decarbonizing our world.
The Magnitude of the Problem
Fig.1
A Plan for the Future
Fig. 2, 3
The Problems with Wind and Solar Alone
- need for 100% fossil fuel backup - Fig.4
- use of land and mineral resources - Fig.5
The Need for Immediate Action
Further Reading
Electrifying Our World Robert Hargraves' excellent overview of energy, the growth human civilization, and possible solutions to the current climate crisis.
Our World in Data has a section on Energy and Environment with nice interactive graphics.
World Nuclear Information Library a well-organized authoritative collection of information on nuclear power.
Notes and References
- ↑ See Nuclear power reconsidered for discussion of these concerns.