Glossary
Climate Change
A long-term shift in global or regional climate patterns, primarily caused by increased concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere due to human activities.
Example:
Rising global temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events are indicators of ongoing climate change.
Double-Pane Windows
Windows constructed with two panes of glass separated by a sealed air or gas-filled space, which provides an insulating barrier to reduce heat transfer.
Example:
Homes with double-pane windows are often more comfortable and have lower energy bills due to reduced heat loss or gain.
Economic Growth
An increase in the production of goods and services in an economy, which can be positively influenced by energy efficiency through cost savings and job creation in new sectors.
Example:
Investments in green technologies and energy-efficient infrastructure can stimulate economic growth by creating new industries and employment opportunities.
Energy Audits
A systematic inspection and analysis of energy flows in a building or system to identify areas of energy waste and recommend efficiency improvements.
Example:
A home energy audit might reveal that sealing air leaks around windows and doors could significantly reduce heating costs.
Energy Conservation
The practice of reducing the quantity of energy used to achieve a particular outcome or service, aiming to decrease overall energy consumption.
Example:
Turning off lights when leaving a room is a simple act of energy conservation that reduces electricity use.
Energy Efficiency
Using less energy to perform the same task or provide the same service, often achieved through technological improvements or better design.
Example:
Replacing an old refrigerator with a new model that uses less electricity to keep food cold demonstrates improved energy efficiency.
Energy Star Label
A government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, indicating that a product meets strict energy-efficient guidelines set by the EPA and Department of Energy.
Example:
When purchasing a new washing machine, looking for the Energy Star label ensures it will use less water and electricity.
Energy-Efficient Building Codes
Regulations that set minimum standards for energy performance in new construction and major renovations, promoting designs and materials that reduce energy consumption.
Example:
A city might update its energy-efficient building codes to require all new commercial buildings to include solar panels or green roofs.
Environmental Damage
Harm caused to the natural environment, including pollution, habitat destruction, and resource depletion, often resulting from human activities like energy production.
Example:
Oil spills cause severe environmental damage to marine ecosystems, harming wildlife and contaminating coastlines.
Fossil Fuels
Non-renewable energy sources formed from the remains of ancient organisms, such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Their combustion releases energy but also greenhouse gases.
Example:
The burning of fossil fuels like coal in power plants is a major contributor to atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Gases released into the atmosphere, primarily from human activities like burning fossil fuels, that trap heat and contribute to global warming.
Example:
Vehicle exhaust is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide.
Insulation
Material used to reduce heat transfer between the inside and outside of a building, helping to maintain stable indoor temperatures and reduce heating/cooling energy needs.
Example:
Adding thick fiberglass insulation to an attic helps prevent heat from escaping in winter and entering in summer.
LED Light Bulbs
Light Emitting Diode bulbs are highly energy-efficient lighting options that use significantly less electricity and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Example:
Switching all the lights in a school to LED light bulbs can drastically cut down on the building's electricity consumption.
National Security
The protection of a nation's interests from threats, in this context referring to the stability and independence gained by reducing reliance on foreign energy sources.
Example:
Developing domestic renewable energy sources can enhance a nation's national security by reducing its vulnerability to global oil price fluctuations.
Public Transportation
Shared passenger transport services, such as buses, trains, and subways, that reduce the need for individual vehicles, thereby lowering overall fuel consumption and emissions.
Example:
Encouraging commuters to use public transportation instead of driving alone can significantly decrease urban air pollution.
Renewable Energy
Energy derived from natural processes that are replenished constantly, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power.
Example:
Investing in renewable energy sources like wind farms helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change.
Subsidies
Financial assistance or support extended by a government to an economic sector or institution, often to promote certain activities or reduce costs.
Example:
Government subsidies for electric vehicle purchases aim to encourage consumers to adopt cleaner transportation options.