All Flashcards
How can transitioning to renewable energy promote sustainability?
Reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers emissions.
How can energy efficiency reduce environmental impact?
By minimizing energy waste and lowering demand.
How can promoting public transportation improve sustainability?
Reduces individual vehicle emissions.
How can improving building insulation promote sustainability?
Reduces energy needed for heating and cooling.
How can using smart grids promote sustainability?
Optimizes energy distribution and reduces waste.
How can carbon capture and storage help?
It can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants.
How can promoting energy conservation help?
It lowers overall energy demand.
How can supporting research into new energy technologies help?
It can lead to more efficient and cleaner energy sources.
How can implementing carbon taxes promote sustainability?
Incentivizes reducing carbon emissions.
How can international agreements help?
They can coordinate global efforts to reduce emissions.
Define 'total energy consumption'.
The total amount of energy used by a country or entity.
What is 'biomass'?
Organic matter used as a fuel, especially in developing nations; includes wood and dung.
Define 'commercial energy'.
Energy sources bought and sold, such as natural gas, coal, and petroleum.
What are 'fossil fuels'?
Non-renewable energy sources formed from the remains of ancient organisms (e.g., coal, oil, natural gas).
Define 'hydropower'.
Electricity generated by the power of moving water, often using dams.
What is 'nuclear power'?
Electricity generated from nuclear reactions, typically using uranium.
Define 'biofuels'.
Fuels derived from biomass, such as ethanol and biodiesel.
What is a 'carbon footprint'?
The total amount of greenhouse gases generated by our actions.
Define 'renewable energy'.
Energy from sources that are naturally replenished, such as solar, wind, and hydropower.
What is 'natural gas'?
A fossil fuel consisting primarily of methane.
How does economic development influence energy consumption?
Industrialization leads to higher energy demand, increasing overall consumption.
Explain the relationship between population growth and energy use.
More people require more resources and energy, leading to increased energy consumption.
What is the role of technological advancements in energy consumption?
Technology can increase or decrease energy use depending on its efficiency and application.
Why are fossil fuels the leading source of electricity globally?
Due to their affordability, accessibility, and established infrastructure.
Why is natural gas increasing in popularity?
Due to its relative abundance and affordability compared to other fossil fuels.
Why is biomass commonly used in developing nations?
It is easily accessible and low in cost, making it a practical energy source.
Why is transitioning to renewable energy crucial for sustainability?
To reduce reliance on fossil fuels, mitigate climate change, and ensure long-term energy security.
How does energy use correlate with development?
Higher energy use often correlates with higher development but can also lead to higher environmental impact.
How does energy consumption differ between developed and developing countries?
Developed nations have higher per capita energy consumption and rely more on commercial energy sources compared to developing nations.
What are the main uses of energy in the residential sector?
Water heating, space heating, and cooling.